Blessed by sunshine, overflowing with rich culture and deep-seated history, and beckoning many a traveler with its long-stretched beaches, tantalizing food, and vibrant nightlife, Portugal is a beautiful country with plenty to offer tourists — and despite sitting about two hours away from the mainland, tucked away in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, Madeira is no exception.
With its stunning coastline filled with golden and black-sand beaches, diverse landscape, and abundance of things to see and do both on land and on sea, it’s no wonder that travelers often make booking the best boat tours in Madeira a priority when planning their vacation.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise that skirts along the towering coastline to places like Calhau da Lapa (a beach at the bottom of a foreboding yet beautiful slope), Cape Girão (the tallest cape in Europe), or Madeira’s best-kept secret, the easternmost nature reserve that is Ponta de São Lourenço; or a more action-packed tour involving swimming, snorkeling, or whale-watching – or maybe a little mix of everything! – there’s sure to be a boat tour in Madeira that’s perfect for you.
Of course, there’s always the option to rent your own boat or jet-ski and explore the volcanic archipelago at your own pace; but if you’re not confident in your sea-faring abilities, or would rather leave it to the professionals, then check out our list of the ten best boat tours in Madeira, a tropical paradise unlike any other.
With a range of really unique activities on offer, by the time you get through this list, you’ll be itching to book your island vacation!
1 – Living Sea Boat Trip
An all-inclusive cruise sure to slap a smile on your face (and a tan on your back), the Living Sea boat trip tackles the southwestern coast of this little-known paradise island, setting sail from the port in Funchal – the island’s main city – before cruising on up the less-explored coast to Cais da Lapa.
Once you arrive at Cais da Lapa, a drama pebble and rock beach with a pier, a waterfall, and a towering cliff-face as the backdrop, you’ll be blessed with plenty of time to relax on the shoreline, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or (depending on what’s available on your particular boat tour) try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or snorkeling.
Naturally, you’ll be a bit peckish after a swim, making the curated onboard lunch, full of Madeiran specialties, all the more appealing. Throw in the delicious local Alentejo region wines to wash it all down, and you’ve got quite the feast. As an all-inclusive tour, rest assured that you’ll have access to no shortage of refreshing drinks and nibbly snacks throughout the day too.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way along the entire eight-hour (or thereabouts) tour, you’ll walk away having learned all about the history of Funchal (your departure city) and Madeira, and the quirks and traditions of the local culture as you sail past the island’s natural landmarks.
Speaking of which, as you take in the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and natural rock formations that make this island so special, as the Atlantic breeze keeping you cool and refreshed even when the mercury’s beating down, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and sea turtles frolicking in the waves – you might even get to swim with them if you’re lucky!
A popular lookout point for hikers, Cape Girão (or Cabo Girão, in Portuguese) is a common stop on this wonderful excursion. From the waters below, you’ll crank your neck up at what is officially the highest cape in Europe, soaring to an elevation of 580 meters above the crashing waves below. While notorious, it’s merely one of the stunning coastal features that will have you entertained every step of the way.
What makes this tour special? Most of the best boat tours in Madeira are over and done within the space of three to four hours. Not this one. On the Living Sea boat trip, the entire day is at your disposal, allowing you more than enough time to swim, tan, eat, drink, socialize with the (maximum) 36 fellow travelers, and have a well-earned nap on the bow of the boat. Plus, with hotel pickup included from an array of common choices in Funchal, you won’t have to worry about a thing.
2 – Dolphin and Whale Watching
An island painted by Mother Nature’s brush, Madeira is unsurprisingly home to a plethora of marine life, including some of the world’s most majestic creatures – dolphins and whales.
As you might expect, there are boat tours aplenty that will set sail in search of these gentle giants. You’ve got private charters, luxury yachts (great for the romance-seeking couple) little charming sailboats, and even the option to rent your own vessel with or without a skipper.
However, arguably the pick of the bunch, the catamaran tours, provide a stable platform from which to view the breaching whales and acrobatic dolphins while also giving you plenty of space to move about, sunbathe, or find some respite from the heat in the air-conditioned cabin.
The relatively short tours – usually from two to four hours – will set sail from Funchal Marina and head out into the Atlantic in search of sperm whales, pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins – you name it. If it’s swimming in Madeiran waters, chances are good that you’ll see it on this tour!
While the whale-watching season (between April and October) is the most common time to see these creatures, at different stages throughout the year, you can witness as many as 25 different species of cetaceans – from Atlantic spotted dolphin and spinner dolphins, humpback whales, Fin whales, Bryde’s whales, minke whales, and even playful Orcas. Seeing any of these beautiful behemoths frolicking in their natural habitat is sure to be an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Whale-watching tours typically leave around mid-morning when the sea is at its calmest and offer an opportunity to see some of the island’s most impressive wildlife up close. As well as being great fun, these tours are also very informative, with onboard naturalists on hand to answer any questions and offer insights into the creatures you’ll encounter.
Depending on your tour of choice, you can take advantage of the VIP luxury service, make the most of the open bar (did someone say wine tasting? Yes please!), and enjoy a quick stop next to Cabo Girão for a refreshing swim or snorkel, a delicious lunch, or even the option to go waterskiing or wakeboarding.
With a wide variety of whale and dolphin watching tours on offer, you’re spoiled for choice in Madeira. Just be sure to bring your camera – you’ll want to remember this one for years to come!
What makes this tour special? While you certainly have the chance to spot dolphins and whales on any boat tour in Madeira, on this dedicated catamaran outing the captain will zip you off to the best, lesser-known locations. These skippers know the animals swimming patterns better than anyone else, giving you the best possible opportunity to meet and greet the ocean’s gentle giants.
3 – Pirate Ship
Forgot about modern amenities, snazzy high-tech yachts, and comfortable catamarans – on this tour, you’ll be transported back to the days of old as you hop aboard a replica 15th-century pirate ship.
Crowned the Santa Maria de Colombo, this striking vessel is an exact replica of the Christopher Columbus flagship that made its first voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492 (history buffs, you’re in for a treat – beyond just imagining how Columbus and his crew felt as they headed into the unknown, you can experience it for yourself!).
As you might expect, with colossal pirate flags and rich history, this is far from your average boat trip! The two-hour journey departs from Funchal Marina and heads out into the Atlantic in search of… well, anything that crosses your path really.
After all, what’s a pirate ship without a few scuffles? And while there’s no walking the plank in the modern era, what you can expect are dolphins and whales popping up above the surface from time to time; an hour anchored in front of the majestic Cabo Girao sea cliff (the highest in Europe), and plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel in the warm and crystal-clear waters in its shadow.
You’ll have the opportunity to live like a swashbuckling pirate, dancing along to some traditional sea shanties, with the classic Pirates’ Grog substituted for a glass of local Madeira wine to complement the typical Madeira honey cake.
Keep in mind: during the toasty summer months, be sure to bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a towel. The crew will usually provide water and snacks, but there’s no harm in bringing your own either! In the winter months, on the other hand, the Atlantic breeze can be surprisingly nippy, so bring a couple of extra layers, just in case.
What makes this tour special? The boat itself is like a journey back in time. You’ll get all the stunning views of Madeira´s south coast that you would on several other boat tours, with a history lesson and insight into life 500 years ago to boot. If you love your boats, especially your maritime history, this is definitely considered to be one of the best boat tours in Madeira.
4 – From Funchal: Porto Santo Day Trip
Sitting about 43 kilometers (or 27 miles, if you prefer) north of Madeira proper, heavenly Porto Santo is criminally underrated yet utterly spectacular, with its stunning 9-km-long beach of fine, golden sand, it’s justifiably been dubbed the Golden Island.
As both the northernmost and easternmost island of the Madeira archipelago, expect relative solitude and tranquility year-round. On top of that, the weather is milder and more stable than on the island of Madeira; with ocean temperatures hovering between 17ºC and 22ºC all year, this getaway island is always attractive, even in the wintertime.
This full-day tour will take you from Funchal (with pickup and dropoff at your hotel included, if you’d don’t mind!) across the water to Porto Santo on a snazzy and comfortable catamaran, where you’ll have plenty of free to feel the wind carve through your hair or soak in some sunshine on the outdoor deck.
Once you anchor at Porto Santo, it’s time to let the sightseeing begin. You’ll disembark the boat and transition onto a minibus that will whisk you around the island on a comprehensive sightseeing tour to the quintessential landmarks and attractions. From the mountainous north coast to the brilliant south bay, Calheta beach (a local favorite), and the Miradouro da Portela viewpoint where postcard-perfect views await, you’ll get a taste of everything that makes Porto Santo so special.
Showing off the impressive diversity of attractions on the golden island, you’ll also visit the Quinta das Palmeiras garden, a botanical garden and mini-zoo home to rare birds and lush flora; the Casa da Serra, a remote museum consisting of two rooms that show how locals lived long ago; and the volcano-shaped Pico Castelo mountain – at 437 meters high, it offers remarkable views of the airport below, the main town of Vila Baleira, and the elongated beaches.
And of course, no trip to an island paradise is complete without some time spent lounging on the beach! You’ll have plenty of time to build sandcastles, paddle in the waves, or just relax with a good book and a refreshing drink while your toes sink into the silky sand.
Whether you want to hit up the beach, take a dip in the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, or stroll around the quaint streets of Vila Baleira – Porto Santo’s capital city – there’s something for everyone on this idyllic little slice of paradise.
When it’s time to go back to Funchal, you’ll reboard the catamaran for a smooth and speedy journey back across the water, where you can spend the rest of your evening reminiscing about your fantastic day trip with new friends from all over the world, and learning all about the fascinating Madeira history, culture, food, and people with your guide’s insightful onboard narration.
5 – Funchal Bays Cruise
As Madeira’s capital city, Funchal is unsurprisingly one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island, and for good reason. With its mild climate, natural beauty, diverse landscape, and rich culture and history, Funchal has something for everyone – and what better way to see it all than from the comfort of a cruise ship?
This usually four-hour tour (allowing plenty of time to wander around the town itself in the afternoon) will take you on a leisurely cruise around some of Funchal’s most gorgeous bays, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and get up close and personal with Madeira’s rocky coastline.
As you cruise toward and between Machico Bay and D’Abra Bay, two stunning yet very contrasting slices of nature, you’ll pass by picturesque fishing villages, towering cliffs (notably the Ponta de São Lourenço – the easternmost point of the island), colorful beaches, and – if you’re lucky – some of Madeira’s resident dolphins!
At the former bay (Machico), which covers the southeastern coast of the island, you’ll discover a wonderful crescent-shaped bay, surrounded by green terraced slopes. Along the shoreline sits a grey sand beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing, as well as a rich history including Madeira’s oldest church and two distinct forts.
D’Abra Bay, meanwhile, is a natural and untouched reserve known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters that make it a popular spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports, not to mention thrilling hiking routes if you happen to explore on land another day.
Departing from and returning to Funchal, this cruise also expectedly takes you past (or at the very least, tells stories of) some of Funchal’s most famous landmarks, including the Forte Sao Jose and the beautiful Quinta Vigia estate. You’ll also get to enjoy onboard commentary from your knowledgeable guide, who will regale you with tales of Madeira’s fascinating history, culture, and people as you cruise past these stunning locales.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Madeira or a seasoned traveler, this cruise – thanks to its mix of raw nature (d’Abra) and city culture (Machico) sells itself as one of the best boat tours in Madeira; a perfect way to see some of the island’s most beautiful scenery and get a taste of its rich culture. So what are you waiting for? Book your spot today!
6 – Desertas Islands
Consisting of three small, volcanic islands southwest of Madeira that collectively form a spectacular nature reserve, the long and narrow Desertas Islands are a little-known (although not for much longer) tourist destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace, quiet, and pristine natural beauty.
The largest and most well-known of the three islands is Deserta Grande, which is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several endangered ones. Among the most notable residents are the Madeiran wall lizard (only found in Madeira), the plain swift (a small bird that nests on cliffs), and the loggerhead turtle.
Most notably, the islands also serve as the last refuge of the Mediterranean monk seal, the rarest seal in the world, with fewer than 30 of the blubbery animals left. Thankfully there are significant conservation efforts at play, which you’ll learn all about on your full-day trip, as well as endemic flora and fauna, the geology and history of the archipelago, and more.
In addition to the educational value of the trip, a boat tour around the Desertas Islands is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy some of Madeira’s most breathtaking scenery. The jagged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife make this one of the most picturesque (and unique) places in all of Europe, let alone Madeira.
You’ll have a chance to stretch your legs with a cliff hike on Deserta Grande (the only island which allows visitors), as well as taking a swim on a volcano-carved beach.
With a hearty lunch, free-flowing drinks, and plenty of time to relax, explore, and take in the scenery, a boat tour of the Desertas Islands is an absolute must for any traveler to Madeira.
7 – From Machico: Ponta de São Lourenço
As the easternmost point of the island, Ponta de São Lourenço is a nature lover’s paradise, offering stunning panoramic views, dramatic cliffs, sheltered coves, and crystal-clear waters – perfect for a spot of snorkeling or diving.
The landscape here is quite unique, with its red volcanic rocks contrasting sharply with both the green vegetation that clings to the cliff faces and the vibrant blue royal blue and turquoise waters below. This is also one of the best places in Madeira to see dolphins and whales, as they are often drawn to the deep waters just off the coast.
While there are tours that depart from Funchal, Machico serves as a much better starting point for this particular cruise, as it’s located just a short drive from Ponta de São Lourenço.
Not only will you avoid the crowds of tourists which flock to this popular spot, but you’ll also get to enjoy some of Machico’s best sights along the way: cruise past the picturesque protected islet of Ilhéu dos Desembarcadouros, admire the endemic plant life in the Pico Frade mountain, and check out the oldest lighthouse in Madeira, the Farol da Ponta de São Lourenço.
Once you arrive at Ponta de São Lourenço, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the views and learn all about the local rich biodiversity before heading back to port. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience and some of the most beautiful scenery Madeira has to offer, then a boat tour to Ponta de São Lourenço is definitely for you!
Hot tip: opt to finish your tour at Marina da Quinta do Lorde because this gives you the chance to also see the dramatic Elephant rock as part of your tour.
8 – Sunset cruise
Epitomizing romance, a sunset cruise is a perfect way to enjoy a special evening in Madeira with your partner, friends, or family.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, you’ll set sail from Funchal Marina and head out into the Atlantic Ocean. Sit back, relax and soak up the stunning views as you watch the colors of the sky change from deep oranges and reds to a tranquil blue.
Onboard either a luxury catamaran or a traditional sailing boat, you’ll enjoy a selection of canapés and drinks as you cruise along the coast, taking in sights such as the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos and the rugged cliffs of Cabo Girão, among a slew of others.
As the sun sets, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales too which often frequent the waters off the coast of Madeira.
With multiple options to choose from – including small-group tours ideal for the budget-conscious, private tours for those looking for a truly VIP experience, t is and some which allow you to hop in for a swim in the warm waters, there’s a sunset cruise to suit everyone in Madeira.
After the three-hour (thereabouts) trip comes to an end, you could say that you’ve capped off a truly magical evening. But in reality, with the nightlife of Funchal at your fingertips, it really is only just the beginning. Not too far from the marina, Vespas is one of the oldest Madeira nightclubs, and still one of the most popular, while Beerhouse is even closer and makes for a more low-key outing.
But whether you head out afterward or not, a sunset cruise is a wonderful way to add a touch of luxury and romance to your holiday in the Pearl of the Atlantic.
9 – New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Every day of the year, and every night, boats cruise in and out of various Madeira harbors – particularly Funchal – taking guests on memorable journeys full of incredible wildlife, dramatic sunsets, awe-inspiring landscapes, and more.
But on one day of the year – December 31st – things are just that little bit more special.
As part of the world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations, a spectacular firework display takes place in Funchal harbor every year, with boats of all shapes and sizes coming together to create a truly magical atmosphere.
With diverse fireworks synchronized to music, shooting off from all corners of the city and the harbor to create a colorful vibrant show, it’s an event that really should be experienced at least once in a lifetime, and there’s no better way to do so than from the comfort of a boat as you enjoy Madeira’s New Year’s Eve festivities in style!
With a range of catamaran cruises lasting anywhere from one to four hours, you can make your New Year’s Eve as long or as short as you like.
On the longer tours, you’ll take some time to sail up and down the coastline, admiring the twinkling city lights (and Christmas lights) and getting to mingle with a few fellow celebrating travelers; nibbling on freshly prepared canapes, tapas, seasonal fruits, and chocolates, and making the absolute most of the open bar service. On the flip side, the shorter tours focus purely on the fireworks display, getting you up close and personal to all of the action.
But whichever option you choose, you’ll ring in the New Year with a champagne toast, and then follow it up with some local Madeira wine and honey cake. Seriously, can you think of any more spectacular way to welcome in the new year than a pyro-music celebration?
Just be sure to book early because this is not only one of the best boat tours in Madeira, but one of the most popular events on the entire calendar, and spaces always fill up fast!
10 – Boat Rental in Madeira
Looking to explore Madeira at your own pace? Then why not consider renting a boat for the day?
With so much to see – from the dramatic cliffs which line the coastline to the hidden coves and beaches which can only be accessed by boat, and the rugged nature reserve of Ponta de São Lourenço on the far eastern side of the island – there’s no better way to get off the beaten path and explore this truly special corner of Portugal.
And with a range of boats to choose from – including small motorboats, classic sailing boats, basic dinghies, and even luxury yachts for those of you on the hunt for something stylish – you’re sure to find something to suit your needs (and budget).
Not sure where to start? Then why not consider taking a trip to one of the many uninhabited islands which surround Madeira? Ilhas Desertas, for example, is a protected nature reserve that is home to nothing but wildlife; making it the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Or, if you’re looking for something a little more lively, then head over to Porto Santo – Madeira’s neighboring island which is famous for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and championship golf course. That’s the beauty of a private boat rental, you can go where you want, when you want!
Whatever you decide to do, a boat rental in Madeira is the perfect way to create your own adventure and explore the island at your own pace! Most boat rental companies will require you to have a valid boating license, so be sure to check this before booking. Some companies also offer skipper services if you don’t have a license but still want to enjoy time out on the water.
Plus, with room for up to six people to sleep (depending on which you book), renting a boat is the perfect way to explore Madeira’s coast at your own pace, writing off the cost of accommodation for that night(s).
Final thoughts
Well, there you have it – a diverse rundown of the very best boat tours in Madeira! From sunset cruises to private yacht rentals and everything in between, there’s sure to be something on this list that takes your fancy.
Have you been on any of these tours? Or do you have any other recommendations to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below! And, as always, thanks for reading, and happy sailing!
As magical as Madeira is from the water, as a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, a volcanic landscape, and a rich and unique culture, you’ll find a plethora of fun things to do in Madeira on land too.
Adventurers, go ahead and hike the Vereda do Areeiro trail or get out of town with a 4X4 jeep tour; history and architecture buffs, explore Funchal’s historic old town with a walking tour, visit the traditional Santana houses, or stroll around the Valley of the Nuns; and nature-lovers, make sure to check out Seixal’s black sand beach and admire the incredible views from one of the island’s several miradors (lookouts).
As you can see, while small in reputation, Madeira is enormous in opportunity – so what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and get exploring!