The island of Madeira is located almost 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Portugal and boasts rugged landscapes, as well as some of the most delicious wine in Europe. However, if you feel like stepping away from the main tourist hotspots, you should consider hopping on a boat and exploring the island from the water.

Boat tours in Madeira offer the perfect opportunity to discover other destinations in this stretch of the North Atlantic Ocean, such as Porto Santo or the Desertas Islands. Alternatively, nature enthusiasts can seek out the sea’s most beloved creatures as they sail through the calm waters.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Madeira.

What are the most popular boat tours in Madeira?

Funchal sunset boat tour in Madeira

Witness the island’s coastline at its most breathtaking during the golden hour from a vantage point on the water throughout this sunset Madeira boat trip. Hopping on your vessel in the early evening, you’ll sail off the coast of Funchal and journey around the south of Madeira as the sun sets over the horizon.

Watch the ocean glisten as its waters are illuminated in pinks and oranges, all the while looking out for dolphins, and whales, both of which are active during the evening. If you’re not lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one of these spectacular beings, you’ll be able to book another tour, free of charge.

Desertas Islands cruise from Madeira

Head away from Madeira to explore the remote Desertas Islands, best known for their array of colorful bird life. On board a schooner, you’ll head toward the Desertas Islands, located off the southeast coast of Madeira.

Pass the time by feasting on delicious Portuguese fare before reaching Deserta Grande, the main island in the archipelago. There, you’ll follow your guide on a walking tour along its volcanic cliffs and geological formations. As you wander through the wilderness, you’ll look to the skies, which are a haven for seabirds, such as Barolo shearwaters, band-rumped storm petrels and Caspian gulls.

Returning your focus to the coastline, you’ll have the opportunity to spot monk seals, of which there are less than 1,000 left in the world, sunbathing on the warm sands. Before you return to your boat and sail back to Funchal, you’ll slip into the waters, and discover the wealth of marine life that can be found on the sea bed through snorkeling.

Dolphin and whale watching catamaran cruise in Madeira

Discover the wildlife that thrives in the waters surrounding Madeira on a half-day whale and dolphin watching catamaran trip. As you journey through these glistening waters, you’ll look out for the marine mammals that call this corner of the sea home, including several species of dolphins, such as bottlenose, striped and Atlantic spotted dolphins.

You also may be blessed with some whale sightings in Madeira, including pilot and sperm whales, which frequent the waters year-round. Let yourself be enticed by the refreshing waves as you stop for a spot of swimming or snorkeling. Alternatively, you can use this opportunity to soak up the sun from the deck of your boat and relax as you’re gently rocked by the ripples.

Pirate boat tour in Madeira

If you’re seeking a more cultural experience while on the Portuguese island, consider taking a boat tour in Madeira on board a pirate ship. Kicking off your cruise along Madeira’s south coast, you’ll board a replica of the Santa Maria — the ship that Christopher Columbus used to voyage across the seas.

As you sail along the water, you’ll learn about the history of the island, enabling you to gain a thorough and well-rounded view of Madeira. You’ll stop at Cabo Girão, which towers over the sea at almost 600 meters high and is the tallest sea cliff in Europe. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to dip into the ocean and admire Madeira’s coastline while cooling off.

Porto Santo cruise in Madeira

Another sailing destination in Madeira is the island of Porto Santo, known for its silky beaches. Traveling away from Madeira in a northeasterly direction, you’ll stumble upon Porto Santo, an island that was formally discovered in the 15th century when ships were run aground by catastrophic storms.

Upon reaching the isle, you’ll board a bus to navigate its stretch of land and see the highlights, including the tranquil Calheta Beach and the green haven of Quinta das Palmeiras, which is home to several bird species, including peacocks and emus. Admire panoramic views that stretch out across the North Atlantic Ocean from the Miradouro da Portela viewpoint and learn about the history of Porto Santo before returning to Madeira.

How much do boat tours in Madeira cost?

Boat tours in Madeira vary significantly in price, depending on the length of the excursion and the destinations you visit. Those that focus on whale and dolphin spotting, either during the day or at sunset, typically cost between €30, and €40 per person.

You’ll pay approximately €50 per adult for a boat tour along Madeira’s south coast on a pirate ship. Day trips to the Desertas Islands typically cost €80 per adult and there must be at least 6 participants for these tours to operate.

Finally, boat cruises to Porto Santo usually cost €140 per person for groups of up to 20 travelers.

Which places are seen?

Desertas Islands

The three Desertas Islands — the most visited of which is Deserta Grande — are classed as a protected area because of their small colony of monk seals. These sea creatures once roamed the shores of the Desertas Islands in abundance. However, hunting and fishing caused their numbers to drastically decline during the 20th century, and by 1998, there were just eight seals living around the isles.

Over 20 years later, the colony has grown to around 40 seals, a number that is slowly increasing, year by year. Alongside monk seals, the Desertas Islands are also known for their plethora of seabirds and have been classed as an “Important Bird Area” by BirdLife International.

Some of the most easily recognized bird species around the islands include Bulwer’s petrels, named after an English naturalist, and common terns, which can be found in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Porto Santo

While Porto Santo was marked on maps as far back as the 14th century, it wasn’t formally discovered until more than 100 years later when two Portuguese explorers, sent by the king to discover new lands off the coast of Africa, were thrown off-course during a storm and found themselves upon Porto Santo’s sandy shores.

The famous globetrotter, Christopher Columbus, spent several happy years living in Porto Santo and today, his home serves as a museum, featuring original maps, and showcasing the discovery of the world during the 15th century. Just over 5,000 people inhabit the island of Porto Santo, most of whom reside in the coastal village of Vila Baleira.

Many travelers on a day trip to Porto Santo visit the Quinta das Palmeiras, which is both a botanical garden and a mini zoo. The flora here ranges from fragrant roses to vibrant firecrackers and hibiscuses. Alongside peacocks, and emus, the mini zoo is home to parrots, swans and pigeons. As well as birds, you can admire terrapins and colorful koi carp while strolling through this peaceful patch of paradise.

Cabo Girão

Cabo Girão is a world-famous clifftop that attracts almost 2,000 visitors every day to gaze out onto the endless ocean from its vantage point. This sea cliff is located along the southern coast of Madeira and straddles two river valleys, leading to the ocean.

A skywalk has been installed at Cabo Girão, which is the highest of its kind in Europe and is made from glass, enabling tourists to catch a glimpse of the sea directly below them. This skywalk has been built 580 meters above sea level and daredevils can walk tenderly over this sheer drop throughout the year.

How long does a boat trip last?

Boat tours in Madeira vary in duration, with some lasting just 3 hours and others lasting 8 or more. If you’re short on time, you should consider choosing a whale and dolphin watching tour. A sunset Madeira boat cruise or one that takes place aboard a pirate ship may also suit you if you have a limited itinerary.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for activities to fill your vacation, opt for a day trip that travels to Porto Santo or the Desertas Islands.

Where do boat tours leave from?

The majority of boat tours in Madeira include a convenient accommodation pickup service. Your friendly guide will pick you up at a predetermined time and once your adventure finishes, you’ll be returned to your hotel in Madeira.

Alternatively, you may be asked to meet in Funchal, at or near the marina. The island has a network of public transportation, including buses, which make navigating its towns easy.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Yes, however, the accessibility of boat tours in Madeira for wheelchair users can vary depending on the company and boat. Some tour operators may have vessels equipped with ramps and specially designed seating areas to accommodate wheelchair users, while others may not.

As such, it is best to contact the operator of the boat tour that interests you directly to inquire about their specific accommodations and facilities for wheelchair users.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Madeira?

The best time for a boat trip in Madeira is typically during the summer, from June to September, when the weather is most stable and warm, while the sea is calm. During these months, you have a higher chance of marine life sightings, including dolphins and whales.

Moreover, summer also aligns with Madeira's festive season, adding to the overall vibrant atmosphere. However, Madeira boasts a mild climate year-round, making boat trips possible outside the peak tourist season.

Which other water activities can be done in Madeira?

Travel tips

Book the boat tour that interests you in advance, especially during the peak summer tourist season, since they can fill up quickly.
Wear non-slip shoes for the boat ride and make sure to bring a jacket with you, as it can get chilly out on the water, especially in the evening.
Some boat tours in Madeira might not offer food, so bring something to nibble on if it's a long trip.
Respect the wildlife you encounter on your boat trip. If you see marine life, remember to observe from a distance and avoid causing them stress.

Boat Tours in Madeira