Located almost 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Portugal, the waters surrounding the island of Madeira provide the ideal environment for dolphins. With more than 20 species of the cetaceans calling this stretch of ocean home throughout the year, there’s always a friendly face to spot leaping through the waters.

Dolphin watching cruises in Madeira enable you to get up close to these dazzling creatures without disturbing or harming them in their natural environment. Fun for all the family, these excursions are the perfect way to pass a few hours of your Madeira vacation.

Here's all you need to know about dolphin watching cruises, one of the most enchanting outdoor activities in Madeira.

What are the best dolphin watching cruises in Madeira?

Whale and dolphin watching cruise in Madeira

Get up close to the marine life of Madeira on this cruise that seeks out both whales and dolphins. As part of a small group, you’ll board a yacht and sail away from Madeira’s southern coastline to find its resident pods of dolphins.

You’ll have the opportunity to spot the bottlenose species, as well as striped, pantropical and Atlantic spotted dolphins as you speed through the ocean. You may also see sperm or Bryde’s whales, which are both commonly found off the coast of Madeira, while relaxing on deck. Allow yourself to be enticed by the turquoise waves and take a dip with breathtaking views of Madeira’s coast.

Alternatively, indulge in a spot of snorkeling and seek out the swordfish, skipjacks, and red snappers that roam the ocean. If swimming doesn’t appeal to you, simply stay on board and soak up the sun’s golden rays before returning to Madeira.

Sunset whale and dolphin watching tour from Funchal

If you’re looking to experience a truly memorable and special affair, consider watching dolphins playing during the golden hour. Starting in the early evening, you’ll sail toward Cabo Girão as the skies transform into a watercolor painting of oranges and pinks.

On the way, your crew will point out whales and dolphins, both of which are most active during this time of day. Watch the sun set over the horizon as you sip on a complimentary drink and have the opportunity to swim or snorkel if you so choose.

All-inclusive whale and dolphin watching cruise in Madeira

Enjoy having every detail taken care of for you on an all-inclusive excursion on board a luxury catamaran. Be greeted with a refreshing glass of sparkling wine to toast your adventure and kick the excursion off with a bang. Then head out onto the seas to discover several species of dolphins that live off the coast of Madeira throughout the year.

Journeying on toward Cabo Girão, you may see sperm or pilot whales blowing water or playing with their young. Alternatively, you may discover turtles gracefully swimming through the waters before jumping off the deck to join them in front of Europe’s tallest sea cliff, measuring over 580 meters high. Put your feet up and listen to the calming sounds of the waves or take advantage of an open bar on your return journey to Funchal, where your dolphin and whale watching cruise in Madeira ends.

Private whale and dolphin watching cruise in Madeira

For the most authentic experience, hire your own vessel and sail through the seas alone with your personal skipper on this dolphin-watching boat cruise in Madeira. The perfect option for those who require a more personal touch, a private tour transports your group to the best dolphin watching spots around the island.

You’ll have a friendly crew offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and once you discover Madeira’s dolphin population, you’ll be able to watch them interacting together in their natural environment without any other tourists in the way. Enjoy this magical experience in a peaceful environment before trying out snorkeling to see if you can spot some of Madeira’s smaller marine life, which includes turtles and manta rays.

Are there any combo available with dolphin watching cruises in Madeira?

Dolphin watching cruise plus wine tasting and Cabo Girão Skywalk

Get ready for an action-packed day that combines a dolphin watching cruise, with a jeep tour and wine tasting in Madeira, plus a trip to Cabo Girão. Journeying away from Funchal, you’ll reach the São Sebastião viewpoint, which offers panoramic views across the western stretch of the island.

You’ll then bump over Madeira’s rough terrain in a 4x4, passing by São Vicente’s secret caves, toward a local vineyard, where you can see the winemaking process and sample tipples produced from Madeiran grapes. Travel to Europe’s tallest sea cliff — Cabo Girão — before seeking out friendly cetaceans from the seat of a boat.

Land and sea Madeira tour with dolphin watching

After admiring the coastline of Madeira from a spectacular viewpoint, you’ll travel to Curral das Freiras — also known as Nun’s Valley after the sisters who fled to the island to escape piracy and found refuge in the gorge.

Ascend to the summit of Pico do Areeiro — Madeira’s third-highest peak — before visiting a trout farm, located in the island’s dense forest. Finally, board a catamaran to search for dolphins and whales in their natural environment, and slip into Madeira’s refreshing waters for a swim.

How much do dolphin watching cruises in Madeira cost?

The most budget-friendly dolphin watching cruises in Madeira take place during the sunset and cost around €40 per adult. Children aged between 5 and 11 cost half the adult rate, while those under 5 can participate for free.

Basic daytime whale and dolphin watching cruises in Madeira operate in a small groups of up to eight guests and cost approximately €60 per person.

You can expect to pay €70 per adult for an all-inclusive dolphin watching tour. Children between the ages of 6 and 14 can participate for a discounted rate of €60 while those under 6 cost half the adult fare.

Private dolphin watching boat tours in Madeira are priced at €450 for a group of up to six participants. Broken down, the cost per head with the maximum number of guests is less than €80, making this an excellent option for those traveling in a larger party.

As for combination dolphin watching tours, land and sea tours in Madeira cost €80 per person, while tours with wine tasting and jeep excursions that visit Cabo Girão cost €90 per person.

What is included?

Dolphin watching cruises in Madeira include an experienced skipper, as well as a professional crew, depending on your group size, who will steer you in the direction of the island’s dolphin pods. They will point out the cetaceans as you pass by and may feed you tidbits of fascinating information about their habits.

Some excursions provide you with a welcome drink, while others provide refreshments throughout the adventure. Tours also usually include the use of snorkeling equipment.

If you opt for an all-inclusive cruise, you’ll have unlimited use of an open bar, and be provided with snacks to keep you energized during your tour.

Depending on the vessel your tour takes place on, you may have access to showers to freshen up after a swim.

Where does it start?

Dolphin watching tours in Madeira often begin in Funchal, the island’s main town, or Calheta, which is located further west along the south coast. The starting point is typically at or around the marina, where you’ll locate the tour operator’s office and then board your vessel. In some cases, operators provide a complimentary hotel pickup service.

How long does it last?

Dolphin watching cruises in Madeira usually last between 2 and 3 hours, which allows you plenty of time to explore the abundance of marine life off the island’s coastline. If you wish to extend your adventure, you can select a combination tour, which visits a multitude of additional destinations and lasts between 8, and 9 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

No, unfortunately, most dolphin watching cruises in Madeira do not cater for wheelchair users.

When is the best time for a dolphin watching cruise in Madeira?

Dolphins are present around Madeira all year round, making any season suitable for a dolphin watching cruise. However, the best time for a dolphin watching cruise is usually from April to October, when the weather is milder and sea conditions are more favorable. As for the best times of day, early mornings and late afternoons are typically optimal, as dolphins tend to be most active during these cooler hours.

Is it safe to take a dolphin watching cruise in Madeira?

Yes, dolphin watching cruises in Madeira are generally safe and operated by experienced skippers and crews. It is important to respect marine life by following the instructions of your guide to avoid disturbing or harming the animals.

Are children allowed on a dolphin watching cruise in Madeira?

Yes, children are generally allowed to join dolphin watching cruises in Madeira, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Dolphin watching cruises in Madeira require favorable marine conditions to take place, so if the weather is bad, it may be canceled. In this event, you can reschedule for a later date or request a full refund.

Which other water activities can be done in Madeira?

Travel tips

Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather out at sea can change quickly. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are necessary even on cloudy days.
It is important to stay hydrated and energized while out at sea, so pack water and snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Familiarize yourself with the different species of dolphin that call Madeira home for a richer experience. Bottlenose dolphins are the most common sighting, but you can also see striped dolphins and Atlantic spotted dolphins, depending on when you visit.
Remember, dolphin sightings can't be guaranteed, but the sea trip itself is worth it. Be patience, stay open-minded and enjoy the boat cruise!

Dolphin Watching in Madeira