Madeira: Dolphin & Whale Watching Speedboat Tour Funchal

Summary

Speedboat ride in Funchal with dolphins whales and marine life

You’ll race across Madeira’s coast by speedboat with local guides who know where to find dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and seabirds. Expect salty air on your skin, honest laughter from your crew, and moments when wildlife gets close enough to make you forget your camera. This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s feeling part of the ocean for a while.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is our captain grinning as he helped me into the speedboat — he had these sun-creased eyes that made me trust him instantly. There was this low hum from the engines, not loud at all, more like a promise of what was coming. Our guide, Sofia, handed out windbreakers (I thought I wouldn’t need one — I was wrong) and explained how their spotters on land would call us if dolphins or whales were nearby. It felt oddly high-tech for something so wild.

We sped out from Funchal’s harbor, salt spray flicking my face and the air sharp with that clean ocean smell — you know, almost metallic. The water looked impossibly blue under the morning sun. Suddenly Sofia pointed ahead and shouted something in Portuguese; next thing I knew, we were slowing down right where a pod of dolphins was slicing through the waves. They came so close to the boat that for a second I forgot to take photos — just watched them move together, all muscle and smoothness. The boat sits low so you really feel like you’re right there with them.

I tried asking Sofia about the dolphin names in Portuguese (I definitely butchered it — she laughed and tried to teach me again). She also explained why they keep a respectful distance from whales, which honestly made me appreciate the whole thing more. We saw some sea turtles too, just drifting along like they owned the place. There’s this moment when everyone goes quiet except for the slap of water against fiberglass — I still think about that silence sometimes.

On the way back toward Funchal, someone spotted a group of seabirds diving after fish, and our captain steered us closer for a look before we headed in. My hair was tangled from the wind and my hands smelled faintly like salt even after we docked. Not sure what I expected from a dolphin & whale watching tour in Madeira but it wasn’t this feeling of being small in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale and dolphin sea safari

• Board speedboat in Funchal
• Spotters locate dolphins and whales
• Boat heads to marine wildlife
• Observe whales, dolphins, and turtles
• Listen to marine biologist commentary
• Enjoy 360° ocean views
• Return to shore

Top questions

How long does the dolphin & whale watching speedboat tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect several hours at sea covering large areas off Funchal.

Is there a marine biologist on board during the tour?

Yes, your crew includes a marine biologist who provides commentary on species encountered.

Are children allowed on this Madeira speedboat tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is hotel pickup included for this dolphin & whale watching tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

What should I wear for this speedboat trip in Madeira?

Dress appropriately for all weather conditions; windbreakers are provided on board.

Will I definitely see dolphins or whales near Funchal?

Sightings aren’t guaranteed but success rates are over 98% thanks to land-based spotters.

Is lunch included on this Madeira sea safari?

No lunch is included; focus is on wildlife viewing with commentary from guides.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from both a captain and marine biologist crew, informative commentary about Madeira’s marine life as you search for dolphins and whales by speedboat off Funchal, plus all necessary landing fees and local taxes covered before returning to port.