Madeira · SAILING
Catamarans, ketches and a replica of Columbus’s Santa Maria, all out of Funchal marina. These 15 are compared on price, hours aboard, whether food and drinks are genuinely included and which ones stop to swim.
Cruise Madeira’s coast on a quiet hybrid catamaran, search for dolphins and whales, then swim beneath Cabo Girão for $40.
“It was a very nice atmosphere and we saw some bottlenose dolphins and commun dolphins during our trip. 100% recommend! Stuff was friendly and they give you a lot of informations about the dolphins you encounter.”
Search Madeira’s waters for dolphins and whales, cruise beneath Cabo Girão, and swim from a spacious catamaran for $41.
“Entire experience was amazing and all went as planned - we have been extremely lucky as we managed to watch whales and dolphins during the trip. Staff was helpful and also enjoyed watching with all the crew - we could see their happy faces. Wild life watching is seasonal and we picked the best time of the year.”
Cruise Funchal Bay by luxury catamaran, look for whales and dolphins, swim beneath Cabo Girão, and enjoy Madeira from the sea.
“Going on the catamaran was great fun! We saw the pilot whales which was great! The boat was very comfortable and very relaxing. The guides gave us some history and were very friendly. Really enjoyed it!”
Cruise Madeira’s coast by eco catamaran, spotting dolphins and whales with expert guides, then enjoy Cabo Girão and Câmara de Lobos views.
“Well organised trip. We were on a cruise ship and walked to where the Magic Dolphin kiosk and boat are. All staff were very professional, particularly the staff on board. We saw pilot whales and common seals. Take a waterproof, as you may get very wet from sea spray on the return journey. You can purchase snacks and drinks on board although we didn’t take this up.”
Review of Funchal’s 3-hour luxury catamaran tour, with dolphin and whale watching, Cabo Girão views, swimming, expert guides, and small groups.
“It was a great experience sailing around the bay on a catamaran. We saw loads of dolphins, and had the opportunity to take lots of photos. The catamaran was comfortable and we sunbathed. The crew were friendly and knowledgeable. There were two stops for swimming - this was amazing. Worth every penny!”
Review of Funchal’s 3-hour sunset sailing tour with dolphin and whale watching, Cabo Girão swimming, snorkeling, drinks, and practical tips.
“We went on an afternoon sunset boat trip, and it was an unforgettable experience. The views were stunning as the sun dipped below the horizon, but the real highlight was our guide, Jose. He was absolutely brilliant — hilarious, friendly, and full of fun stories that kept everyone entertained. He created such a great atmosphere on board. And the Madeira wine? So good! It was the perfect touch to a relaxing, scenic cruise. Highly recommend this trip — especially if you get Jose as your guide!”
Sail from Funchal to Cabo Girão for dolphin and whale watching, swimming, snorkeling, coastal views, and drinks on a small-group yacht.
“The Skipper & Bruno were fantastic! Very safe , very knowledgeably & fantastic guides for the trip! We got to see dolphins , enjoyed the views of Maderia and stopped for a swim, a really great way to see more of the island and enjoy the beauty of it all”
Cruise from Funchal at sunset, watch for dolphins and whales, swim beneath Cabo Girão, and enjoy a relaxed three-hour catamaran trip.
“Saw two groups of dolphins, had a great swim underneath cape giraud and lots of fun. Really worth going!”
Review of Madeira’s 3-hour catamaran cruise from Funchal, with dolphins, whales, Cabo Girão swimming, onboard bar, and a free return trip if needed.
“The trip was a blessing, we saw orcas, dolphins and on the way back to the coast ., a manta ray approached the catamaran, wich is not happening very often on the coasts of Madeira. Captain and team are a perfect match and they did a great job. I would do the trip again, right away. Thanks for everything and stay calm with the crazy tourists. Muito obrigado Thanks a lot villmols Merci Dankeschön”
Cruise Madeira’s coast from Funchal, search for whales and dolphins, stop at Cabo Girão, and swim in the Atlantic on a 3-hour catamaran trip.
“Saw a sperm whale and it’s baby!Rare occurance.Nice dip in the sea at the end.Great crew.Very informative and friendy captain! Coral beer lovely!”
Sail Madeira’s coast from Funchal on a relaxed 3-hour catamaran trip with dolphin and whale searches, Cabo Girão views, and summer swims.
“Does what is says on the tin a 3 hour cruise and spotted dolphins 🤷♂️😁 couldn't fault the whole experience and would happy book with Nautisantos again :)”
Watch Madeira’s dolphins and whales from a comfortable catamaran, with live commentary, coastal views, and a chance to swim.
“Really good experience. Comfortable boat and we could lie on nets at the front ( and risk getting wet). We saw a huge pod of Atlantic Spottdd Dolphins. We watched them hunt in the crystal clear water for our allocated 10minutes”
Review of the Desertas Islands catamaran trip from Funchal, with volcanic scenery, monk seal conservation, lunch, swimming, and practical tips.
“It was great, the crew tried to show as many species as they could. The only negative experience was the guided walk around the guard’s house. Too many people with one round, can’t hear read, or enjoy it. It would be better in smaller groups.”
Review of Madeira’s 3-hour Atlantic Pearl catamaran trip, with dolphins, whales, swimming, island views, onboard facilities, price, and practical tips.
“It was good value for money, a lovely trip out, but the catamaran used was no where near as nice as the one we previously booked with Viator when we booked in January 2023”
Cruise from Funchal to Cabo Girão for sunset, swimming, and possible dolphins or whales aboard a comfortable catamaran.
“Was a Last minute booking and thank god we did book! We had the most amazing time! The guide was so lovely and helpful explaining how to kayak and stayed with us while we were travelling to the beach so make sure we were all doing okay! when we got to the beach he told us a bit of history about the island and animals which was really interesting! Had the best time snorkelling and saw some amazing fish! The colours on them were gorgeous. All together had the most amazing time, we go given 2 waters and 2 redballs for the trip and got given snorkelling equipment as well.…”
Pick a trail, a deck or a table.
