Madeira: Dolphin & Whale Watching Yacht with Drinks & Swim

Summary

Luxury dolphin watching in Madeira with swimming and local flavors

You’ll sip Portuguese sparkling wine as you set sail from Funchal marina, watch dolphins and whales glide past the boat, then swim beneath Cabo Girão’s towering cliffs. With a local guide leading the way and plenty of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear included, you’ll feel both welcomed and just a little bit awed by Madeira’s wild side.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the fizz of real Portuguese sparkling wine to hit me before we even left Funchal’s marina — but there we were, glasses clinking as the boat slipped out into that crazy blue Atlantic. The guide (I think his name was Rui?) had this way of pointing out little things — like how the cliffs looked different in the morning light, or why the dolphins sometimes followed us so close you could almost touch them. I kept laughing because every time I tried to say “biscoitos” (those crumbly local biscuits), Rui would just shake his head and smile. I still don’t know if I ever got it right.

The air out there smells like salt and something else — maybe wildflowers? It’s hard to describe. When we finally spotted a pod of dolphins, everyone went quiet for a second. Not in that forced tour group way, but really quiet, like we all knew it was special. The whales took longer — someone said they’re shy this time of year — but when one surfaced, it felt like time slowed down for a second. Or maybe that was just me.

Afterwards, we anchored near Cabo Girão and jumped in for a swim. The water was colder than I expected (I yelped a bit), but honestly, floating there looking up at those cliffs… I still think about that view when I need to breathe. There were towels and blankets everywhere, plus more snacks than anyone could finish. Someone passed around local juice — sweet and tart at the same time. And yeah, there’s showers on board if you want to rinse off before heading back to Funchal.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury whale watching and swimming

• Board boat at Marina of Funchal
• Sail to find dolphins and whales
• Enjoy cocktails, wines, and appetizers
• Stop for swim near Cabo Girao
• Use boat showers and bathrooms

Top questions

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

No, the tour departs from Funchal marina; hotel pickup is not included.

Are drinks and snacks provided during the yacht trip?

Yes, you’ll get cocktails, local wines and juices, coffee or tea, plus traditional snacks and biscuits.

Can I swim during the Madeira whale watching cruise?

Yes, there’s a stop for swimming near Cabo Girão with towels provided.

Is snorkeling equipment available on board?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your day trip.

Are children allowed on this yacht tour?

Children under 3 years old are not allowed on this experience.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the yacht is wheelchair accessible for guests’ comfort.

How long does it take to reach dolphin & whale areas from Funchal?

The yacht departs directly from Funchal marina; wildlife sightings begin shortly after leaving port.

What’s included

Your day includes all drinks—Portuguese sparkling wine, cocktails, local wines and juices—plus coffee or tea alongside plenty of snacks and traditional biscuits. Towels and blankets are ready for your swim stop by Cabo Girão; snorkeling equipment is available if you want it. Showers and bathrooms are on board so you can freshen up before heading back toward Funchal marina.