Snorkeling in Madeira: Catamaran Sunset & Cetaceans

Dive into clear Atlantic waters, then watch the sun drop behind the horizon from the boat.

Snorkeling in Madeira combines a three-hour catamaran sail from Funchal with guided time in the water off Câmara de Lobos. You depart Marina Nova do Funchal, watch for marine animals along the route, snorkel in the clear waters of the Madeiran coast, and return as the sun sets. Snorkelling equipment is provided, and a live guide speaks English and Portuguese. The departure time is fixed; arrivals after departure will not receive a rescheduled trip on the same ticket.

The Experience

The catamaran leaves Marina Nova do Funchal heading toward Câmara de Lobos, a route that crosses open Atlantic water. Along the way, the guide points out cetaceans in their natural habitat—the real draw for many who book this sail. The boat itself is a wooden catamaran, which the operator notes creates a more welcoming and reserved environment than larger vessels.

Once you reach the stop off Câmara de Lobos, you enter the water with snorkelling equipment provided. The Madeiran coast here stays clear enough to see what you're looking at. Time in the water is part of the three-hour window, so you're not spending the whole afternoon submerged—the sail and the snorkel share the day. A bar on or near the boat sells alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks if you want something between the water and the sunset.

The return journey happens as daylight fades, so the sunset itself becomes the final leg. You see it from the deck rather than from the shore, which is the whole reason the operator built the schedule this way. The guide is live and speaks English or Portuguese, so you get context for what you're seeing rather than a silent experience.

What’s included

• Snorkelling equipment.
• all fees and taxes.
• a live guide in English or Portuguese.
• access to a bar for beverages.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Atlantic Pearl

Is this one for you?Book this if you prefer snorkeling from a boat rather than shore entry, and want to watch the sunset from the water with a small group in a calm, sheltered setting.

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Top questions

What time does the catamaran leave Funchal?

The departure is always on time from Marina Nova do Funchal, and customers arriving after the scheduled departure will not receive a rescheduled trip on the same ticket—you need to make a new reservation for another available date and time.

Do I need my own snorkelling gear, or is it provided?

Snorkelling equipment is included with your booking, so you don't need to bring your own or rent it separately.

Will I see cetaceans on this snorkeling trip?

Observing marine animals in their natural habitat is part of the route between Funchal and Câmara de Lobos, though sightings depend on what is present on the day you sail.

How long do I spend in the water snorkeling?

The entire experience is three hours, which includes the sail to Câmara de Lobos, time snorkeling at the stop, and the return sail at sunset—the water time is built into that window, not a separate duration.

Can I bring infants or small children on the catamaran?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the boat is suitable for all physical fitness levels; service animals are also allowed.

What language does the guide speak?

The guide is live and speaks English and Portuguese, so you get narration in one of those languages throughout the sail and snorkel.