Funchal dolphin & whale watching luxury catamaran swim stop

Spot cetaceans in open water, then swim off the cliffs at Cabo Girão

A three-hour catamaran tour from Funchal watches for dolphins, whales and turtles in their natural habitat, with a guided swim stop at Cabo Girão and snorkelling equipment provided. The boat holds a maximum of 35 people and operates with live guides in English and Portuguese. You can stay on deck or move inside the cabin depending on the weather and your preference.

Step-by-step itinerary

Dolphin and whale watching tour

• Board luxury catamaran in Funchal
• Observe dolphins, whales, and turtles
• Stop to swim at Cabo Girão
• Return along the coast to Funchal

The Experience

The boat leaves Funchal and heads into open water where dolphins, whales and turtles move through the Atlantic. The three-hour trip gives the crew time to search different zones and adjust course if marine life surfaces nearby. You watch from the deck or from inside the cabin—the catamaran is built wide and stable enough that either choice works, and the cabin stays comfortable in rough conditions. WiFi is available on board if you need it, and the bar stocks drinks you can buy throughout the morning or afternoon.

Halfway through, the boat stops at Cabo Girão for a swim. You get snorkelling equipment and time in the water while the crew watches the boat. The cliffs rise 580 metres above the water here, and the stop breaks up the observation time with something physical. After the swim, the route heads back along the coast toward Funchal, often with more sightings on the return.

The boat takes a maximum of 35 people, which keeps the deck from feeling crowded and gives everyone a sight line to the water. Infants and small children can travel in a pram or stroller. The departure runs on schedule—if you arrive after the boat leaves, you'll need to book a new trip on a different date; no refunds or rescheduling apply to no-shows or late arrivals.

What’s included

• Snorkelling equipment for the swim at Cabo Girão.
• WiFi on board.
• access to the bar for purchasing drinks.
• restroom facilities.
• live guide in English or Portuguese.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPublic transport nearby

Operated by Atlantic Pearl

Is this one for you?The boat runs on a fixed three-hour schedule with a swim stop built in, so the whole morning or afternoon is structured around the departure time—arrive early enough to board on time, as late arrivals forfeit the booking with no refund or rescheduling option.

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Top questions

What's the chance of actually seeing dolphins or whales on this tour?

The catamaran searches for dolphins, whales and turtles during the three-hour trip, and sightings depend on where the animals are moving that day. The crew adjusts the route to follow activity when it appears, but no sighting is guaranteed on any single departure.

What happens at Cabo Girão during the swim stop?

Cabo Girão is a cliff formation where the boat anchors for a swim break. Snorkelling equipment is provided, and you enter the water while the crew stays with the boat. The stop gives you time in the Atlantic before the return journey to Funchal.

Can I stay inside the cabin the whole time if I get seasick?

Yes. The catamaran has an enclosed cabin where you can stay comfortable and still watch the water through the windows. The boat is wide and stable, and the cabin is designed for passengers who prefer to stay inside.

Is the three-hour tour suitable for young children?

The tour is suitable for all ages. Infants and small children can travel in a pram or stroller on board. The catamaran's size and stability make it manageable for families, though the swim stop at Cabo Girão is optional.

What languages do the guides speak?

The guides speak English and Portuguese. Both languages are used throughout the tour.

What's included in the price?

The tour includes snorkelling equipment for the Cabo Girão swim stop; WiFi on board; and access to the bar where you can purchase drinks. Restroom facilities are available on the boat.