The verdict
Our pick
Madeira Eco Catamaran Dolphin & Whale Watching Hybrid Boat★ 4.59 (267) · 2h 30m–3h
Best price
Ponta de São Lourenço Boat Tour: Madeira Lighthouse & Caves★ 5.00 (24) · 45m–1h
Top rated
Private Sunset Boat Tour Funchal: 2.5 hours, snacks included★ 5.00 (21) · 2h 30m
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Private experiences (4)
Madeira Sunset Boat Tour from Funchal: Private Sailing & Cabo GirãoYou board a private sailboat in Funchal and spend the evening gliding past Madeira's most dramatic coastline as the light changes. Sparkling wine and snacks come with the ticket, and you might see dolphins or whales if the ocean cooperates. The boat has cabins and a bathroom, so anyone who needs to step inside can. You return to Funchal as the last light fades.Is it for me?Book this if you want the Madeira sunset experience without the crowded harbor tours or the logistics of renting your own boat — the private boat and the timing around sunset are what make an evening on the water feel like your own discovery instead of a scheduled stop.
Snorkeling in Madeira from Funchal: Cabo Girão swim stopA half-day boat trip from Funchal on a private yacht carries up to 8 guests to Cabo Girão for swimming and snorkeling in clear water, with snacks, seasonal fruit, a cheeseboard and beverages served on deck. The crew shares insights about Madeira's geography and local history. Snorkeling equipment and towels are provided; an optional light meal (chicken salad wrap, vegetarian and vegan versions available) can be added at checkout.Is it for me?Book the half-day trip if you want to snorkel and swim without committing a full day, or choose the full-day option if you'd rather spend more time on the water and explore additional stops along the coast.
Madeira Private Sailboat Tour: South Coast & Fajã dos PadresA private sailboat tour along Madeira's south coast explores both the east and west sides of the island, with stops at secluded beaches accessible only by sea and frequent opportunities to spot whales and dolphins. You choose between a half-day or full-day option, and can swim in mild Atlantic waters year-round; lunch is either at Fajã dos Padres beach (accessible only by boat or cable car) or prepared on board. The boat carries snorkeling equipment, an open bar with water, juices, beer and wine, and a restroom.Is it for me?Book the half-day if you want a morning or afternoon on the water without committing your whole day; choose the full-day option to explore both coasts thoroughly and have time to swim at multiple beaches. Either way, the private boat means the guide adjusts the route and pace to what your group wants to see, rather than following a fixed schedule.
Private Sailing Cruise Madeira: Sunrise, Sunset & MoonlightA private sailing cruise in Madeira where you choose the time — sunrise, sunset or moonlight — and the boat moves by wind alone, no engine. The operator has been sailing these waters since 2001 and brings hot chocolate, wine, cheese and snacks; guides speak five languages. Three hours on the water, with snorkelling gear and SUP boards available if you want them.Is it for me?Pick the sunrise departure if you want to start your day on the water and chase the Green Flash; choose sunset for golden light and the easiest sailing conditions; go at moonlight if you want the rarest kind of calm. The private boat means you set the pace and the crew adjusts to what you want — no schedule, no other passengers, just three hours of wind and water.
Up to 2 hours (1)
Ponta São Lourenço boat tour: 150-year-old lighthouseThis boat tour from Madeira circles Ponta São Lourenço, a volcanic peninsula and natural reserve where you see a 150-year-old lighthouse, sea caves along the North Coast, and the islet of Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro before swimming at Cais do Sardinha on the return. A live guide speaks English, Spanish or French, and the tour runs roughly two hours with all fees included.Is it for me?Pick this if you want a guided explanation of the lighthouse, caves, and endemic wildlife as you relax on a shared boat—not a private charter or self-guided kayak.
2 to 5 hours (3)
Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran from FunchalA 3-hour catamaran cruise from Funchal Marina along Madeira's south coast where you search for dolphins, whales and occasionally turtles with a qualified guide, and swim in the waters below Cabo Girão if weather and sea conditions permit. The crew uses binoculars and experience to locate marine wildlife and shares details about the species you encounter. If no cetaceans are spotted, you receive a complimentary return trip valid for a year.Is it for me?Departing from Funchal Marina means you don't need a car or a hotel pickup arrangement—the boat leaves from the harbor in town, reachable by local transport or a short taxi ride. That settles the logistics for a free afternoon or a first morning in Madeira without renting anything or coordinating a pickup window.
Madeira Island: Half Day Cruise with Lunch & SnorkelingYou’ll feel the Atlantic breeze as you cruise along Madeira’s coast, stopping to swim and snorkel beneath dramatic cliffs at Calhau da Lapa. Enjoy homemade lunch and unlimited drinks on deck while your local guide shares stories about life along these shores. The small moments—fresh coffee after swimming or laughter over dessert—make this half-day cruise linger in your memory.
Funchal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dolphin WatchingYou’ll sail out from Funchal on a catamaran as daylight fades, watching dolphins or maybe whales glide by while you listen to local stories from your guide. There’s time to swim beneath those wild Madeiran sunsets before drifting back toward shore—salt on your skin and colors still stuck in your head.
Boat Tour Madeira — what to know before booking
This guide compares 11 bookable options for Boat Tour Madeira, with up-to-date prices and real traveler reviews. Prices start at € 35. The average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1,371 traveler reviews.
Most options last between 2 and 5 hours. 11 of the 11 options offer free cancellation. 4 private experiences are also available for closed groups. The verdict at the top highlights the travelers' favorite, the best price and the top-rated option, updated with live data.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Boat Tour Madeira cost?
Prices start at € 35. There are 11 options to compare, and the final price depends on the date, group size and the option you choose.
Can I book with free cancellation?
Yes: 11 of the 11 options offer free cancellation, so you can book now and confirm your plans later.
How long do these experiences last?
Most options last between 2 and 5 hours. There are also shorter and longer formats to fit your itinerary.
Which one is the travelers' favorite?
Madeira Eco Catamaran Dolphin & Whale Watching Hybrid Boat is the travelers' favorite, rated 4.6 out of 5 across 267 reviews.
Are private options available?
Yes, 4 private experiences are available if you prefer a closed group.
