8 Best Dolphin Watching Tours in Madeira

Madeira is a natural paradise in the middle of the Atlantic, famous for its cliffs, lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters. But if there is one thing that makes this island a unique destination, it is the opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Thanks to its location and rich waters, Madeira is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching all year round. If you want to experience the thrill of seeing dolphins jumping alongside your boat, here is a selection of the best dolphin watching tours in Madeira.

If you are looking for a relaxing and comfortable experience, a catamaran cruise is the best option. These boats offer stable sailing and allow you to enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace, with spectacular views of the Madeira coast. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales and even sperm whales, depending on the time of year. Many tours include a stop for swimming in the ocean, so don't forget your swimsuit. The duration is 2-3 hours, with prices ranging from €40-€50 per person.

If you prefer a more dynamic and up-close experience, speedboat tours (RIB) will allow you to get closer to the dolphins and move more freely around the ocean. These small boats have the advantage of quickly reaching the areas where the cetaceans are found and offer an unparalleled sense of adventure. In addition, some tours include the option of swimming with dolphins in open water, an unforgettable experience. The duration is usually 2 hours, with prices ranging from €50 to €70.

For those looking for a more romantic or peaceful experience, a sunset sailing trip is the perfect option. During the trip, you will sail along the south coast of Madeira as the sun sets on the horizon, creating a magical atmosphere. With a bit of luck, you will see dolphins swimming alongside the boat and even some species of whales on their migration. Many of these tours include champagne and snacks, making it an ideal experience for couples. The duration is 3 hours, and the price ranges from €60 to €80 per person.

If you want a different perspective, some boats in Madeira are equipped with glass bottoms, allowing you to see dolphins and other marine animals swimming beneath your feet without getting wet. This is an excellent option for families with children or for those looking for a more relaxed experience without giving up the thrill of whale watching. These tours last 1.5-2 hours and cost approximately £35-£45 per person.

If you want to combine dolphin watching with a water activity, this excursion is perfect. After searching for cetaceans in the open sea, you will stop at a protected marine reserve, where you can snorkel in crystal clear waters and discover Madeira's incredible marine life. Many of these excursions include snorkelling equipment and guides specialised in marine biology. The duration is 3-4 hours, with prices ranging from £50 to £70.

If you are looking for a more exclusive experience, you can opt for a private yacht tour, where you will have the boat all to yourself and your group. This type of excursion allows you to customise the route, choose the stops and enjoy a more intimate experience with the crew. Some tours include food on board, drinks and the possibility of stopping at hidden coves for a swim. The duration is usually 4 hours, with prices starting at £400 per group, depending on the number of people and the services included.

If you are interested in marine conservation, some tours are led by marine biologists, who will explain in detail about the life of dolphins, whales and other ocean animals. During the tour, you will learn to identify the species seen in Madeira and discover more about conservation efforts in the area. These tours are usually conducted in small boats to minimise the impact on the ecosystem and last 2-3 hours, with prices ranging from €50 to €70.

Seeing dolphins and whales in their natural environment is one of the most exciting experiences you can have in Madeira. Whether on a catamaran with panoramic views, a speedboat for a closer look or a sailing boat at sunset, each tour has its own charm and suits different styles of traveller. Ready to set sail and come face to face with these incredible animals?