The ocean calls, and our journey begins! We set sail from Funchal Marina in search of movement on the horizon, and suddenly, a flash of silver — dolphins! Playful, curious, and full of life, they dart and leap beside the catamaran as if putting on a show. Then, if luck is on our side, the majestic whales appear: great, gentle beings who may (or may not!) bring along some rather “unique” ocean aromas. Sea turtles glide past, seabirds wheel overhead — three hours in the company of Madeira’s marine life, and no two trips are ever the same.
A real catamaran trip, not just a whale hunt
This is as much a catamaran cruise from Funchal as it is a wildlife tour. When the winds are kind, the crew cuts the engines and hoists the sails — silent, clean, and wonderfully peaceful sailing along Madeira’s south coast. The route runs from Funchal along the dramatic cliffs to Fajã do Cabo Girão below Câmara de Lobos, and back. When the weather is warm and inviting, the catamaran drops anchor beneath Cabo Girão — one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs — for a cooling swim and snorkel in the open Atlantic.
The boat is built for comfort: onboard toilets, a bar with snacks, and a covered area for shade or shelter, so the trip works just as well for families as for photographers waiting on the perfect breach.
Schedule & meeting point
Up to two 3-hour departures daily, sea conditions permitting:
- Morning: 10:30 – 13:30
- Afternoon: 15:00 – 18:00
Check-in is mandatory 30 minutes before departure at the VMT Madeira kiosk, Pier 8, Funchal Marina. No trips on December 25th.
Pricing
- Adults (13+): €40
- Children (5–12): €20
- Babies (0–4): free
- Family pack (2 adults + up to 4 children): €100
Sightings guaranteed: if no whales or dolphins are spotted on your trip, you’re offered a second trip free of charge. Refunds are issued only for cancellations due to bad weather.
Book your trip, invite your loved ones, and come live this wild adventure!
Frequently asked questions
Are whale and dolphin sightings guaranteed?
Yes, in the fairest way the ocean allows: if no cetaceans are spotted during your trip, the operator offers you a second trip completely free. Refunds are only issued when a trip is cancelled for bad weather.
Can we swim or snorkel during the tour?
Weather permitting, yes — the catamaran anchors below the Cabo Girão cliffs for a swim stop, and snorkeling is available on board. Bring a bathing suit and towel; the crew handles the rest.
Is this catamaran trip suitable for children?
Very much so. Babies up to 4 travel free, children 5–12 pay €20, and the family pack takes 2 adults and up to 4 children out for €100. The boat has toilets and a covered area for shade, and the calm south-coast waters make it one of the most family-friendly boat trips from Funchal.
Which animals can we expect to see?
Dolphins are the most frequent companions, with several whale species passing through Madeira’s waters across the year, plus sea turtles and seabirds. Every trip is different — that’s the point of the guarantee.
What should I bring?
A wind-breaker, bathing suit, beach towel, sun cream — and a camera. Snacks and drinks are available from the bar on board.
Where does the catamaran depart from?
From Funchal Marina: check in at the VMT Madeira kiosk on Pier 8 at least 30 minutes before your departure time.
