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Madeira Nature & adventure

Our most recommended Madeira Nature & adventure

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

1. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Discover the natural beauty of Madeira coastline and look for marine life on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Snorkel through schools of silver fish with high-quality snorkeling gear. Look for dolphins while sipping on a drink purchased from the onboard bar. See dolphins, whales, and turtles playing in their natural habitat. Throughout the year Madeira has different aquatic mammals journeying through its blue waters. Whether you come in summer or winter, the chances are high you’ll see one of these amazing creatures. Stop for a swim during the summer season or catch a glimpse of the world beneath the waves with the provided snorkeling equipment. Relax on deck with a refreshing drink from the onboard bar.

Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour

2. Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour

From Funchal we go to São Vicente in the North Coast, known for its vineyards, volcanic caves and Madeira table wine production, where we can see one of the most famous waterfall that by resembling a bride ́s veil got its name Véu da Noiva . Afterwards, we stop at the natural volcanic pools in Porto Moniz, one of the most visited places in Madeira, having the opportunity to swim in crystalline waters (entry not included) and enjoy the beautiful scenery around them. After this, we go uphill to Fanal, a place of rare beauty with centenary trees in the heart of the Laurissilva Forest (the largest in the world), which is one of the 7th Natural Wonders of Portugal. Continuing to Paúl da Serra, the biggest plateau of the island at nearly 1500 mts high with stunning views, we will have a lunch break (not included) in a typical Madeiran restaurant. To finish our tour, we drive to Cabo Girão, the highest Sea Cliff in Europe and the second in the World with 580 mts., better known for its suspended glass floor Viewpoint.

Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

3. Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise

Spot the dolphins and whales that call Funchal Bay home on this catamaran cruise from Funchal. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters under Cabo Girão and learn more about the majestic creatures from your expert crew. Arrive at New Marina - Funchal and board a luxury catamaran. Receive some safety information from the experienced crew. Choose to sit in the luxurious interior with comfortable seating and protection from the sun, and lounge chairs or outdoor hammocks. Afterward, sit back and relax as you sail towards the open sea. Although sightings of marine species can not be guaranteed, dolphins and whales are often found in the waters around Funchal. Keep an eye on the movements in the water whilst the crew answers any questions about the variety of species. Continue up to the high cliffs of Cabo Girão, which rise 580 meters above sea level. Anchor the boat at Cabo Girão and immerse yourself in the refreshing waters to explore underwater marine life with a snorkel. Then, sail at a leisurely pace around the Marina of Funchal, and marvel at the fantastic views of Madeira's landscapes. Return to Funchal New Marina for a quick landing process and continue to enjoy your day after the tour.

From Funchal: Best of Madeira's West Tour

4. From Funchal: Best of Madeira's West Tour

Escape the hustle and bustle of Funchal on a full-day scenic tour of the west of Madeira. Admire the unspoiled natural beauty of the area and visit the charming villages of Câmara de Lobos and Porto Moniz. Following pickup from selected hotels in Funchal, pass through the traditional fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Continue to Cabo Girão Skywalk, Europe's highest cliff skywalk at 589m. Next, head towards the Ribeira Brava and go north through the deep and narrow valleys of Serra D'Água. Upon arrival at Encumeada, enjoy an incredible view of the south and north coast of the island. Cross a mountain pass, and witness the rugged beauty of the north coast, where Atlantic rollers deposit white surf on the cliffs. Traverse Madeira's highest plateau, and enjoy more spectacular panoramas. Continue to São Vicente on Madeira’s north coast. Visit the beautiful village of Porto Moniz and take 1 hour for lunch, as well as time to admire the volcanic swimming pools. Finish your tour at Paul da Serra to see one of the biggest natural reserves in the world.

Madeira: "Lokoloko" Canyoning Level 1

5. Madeira: "Lokoloko" Canyoning Level 1

Get set for a sporty challenge and an insight into the beauty of rural Madeira on a guided canyoning trip. Discover the scenery of a beautiful valley as you abseil, jump, and slide. After a short walk of 15 minutes through a rural area, reach the beginning of the canyon. Come across different rappels varying in altitude of up to 13 meters, water slides, and jumps. Marvel at the trees in the canyon, covered with mystic treebeard and endemic plants that are considered UNESCO world heritage. At the end of the canyon, walk for 10 minutes through ancient terraces back to the starting point.

Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains

6. Madeira Walks - Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains

Discover the waterfalls of Rabaçal on this guided hike. Enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off in an airconditioned bus from several points on the island of Madeira. Immerse yourself in the unique flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation and sit back and relax on the drive to the Rabaçal reserve. Follow your guide on a trail of intense natural beauty that is brimming with waterfalls. Look for local flora and fauna as you walk through this lush wonderland. Pass by 25 natural springs which fall into a small crystal clear lake that is surrounded by dense vegetation. Listen to the falling water and the chirping of birds. Return to your accommodation by bus at the end of your tour.

From Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

7. From Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Go green with the #1 dolphin and whale watching experience in Madeira Island! Cruise on our brand new purpose-built eco-friendly catamaran and enjoy a comfortable cruise along the south coast of Madeira Island. Watch out for wonderful whales and dolphins jumping and splashing nearby. When sea life arrives our electric engines engage for silent emission free cruising which helps keep the cetaceans very happy! On this tour we will sail a few miles out of Funchal looking for all kinds of wildlife such as dolphins, whales, turtles and endemic birds. We often spot these animals jumping and splashing nearby and it’s always a great sight that never gets old!! Our certified guides will provide you with informative commentary and fun facts about the cetaceans and different species that you may find on your trip and in Madeira Island. On our way back, we sail close to the coast passing by many points of interest such Cabo Girão where you will enjoy stunning views of one of the highest sea cliffs in the world! Camara de Lobos Bay – a traditional fishing village; the world famous Reid’s Hotel where Winston Churchill used to stay during his visits to Madeira Island and much more! You will be able to sit back and take in the beautiful views of the south coast of Madeira Island. Magic Dolphin Eco is the only purpose built catamaran for dolphin and whale watching in Madeira Island. It was carefully developed to assure our passengers a safe, comfortable and unforgettable cruise! It is the only ecological catamaran with hybrid-electric engines for dolphin and whale watching, making it the best experience not only for our guests, but also for our beloved cetaceans! Bar service (2x) with drinks and snacks available; Toilets (2x) on deck wheelchair accessible; Two decks for better sightseeing; Fantastic upper deck providing 360° panoramic views! Great bridge deck shade area; Large nets and sea life observation area; Seating for everyone inside and out; Fast Catamaran – up to 20 knots; Modern safety construction 2022; Stable and comfortable cruising. We are one of very few companies to work with professional sealife spotters on land, providing the best possible chances of seeing them in their natural habitat and high quality observation! We are all about responsible dolphin and whale watching, and love sharing our knowledge with you! Join us and observe sealife the right way, in the wild! Note: The cetaceans in Madeira are wild and free, and it is simply not possible to guarantee their sighting. We observe cetaceans every day, however not always every trip. We will always do our best to find them, however if you are unlucky we will do our best to make you happy! Note: Please arrive to our office in Funchal Marina 30 minutes before departure. If you miss the boat, you will be refused a refund. Note: Cancelations/ Booking Changes must be made 24h prior to departure time.

Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

8. Desertas Islands Full-Day Catamaran Trip from Funchal

On this full-day catamaran trip to the Desertas Islands, you’ll sail along the south coast of Madeira Island. On arrival, you’ll disembark in clear waters onto a beach of volcanic origin, where you’ll have a chance to enjoy a swim. Covering an area of 12,586 hectares the Natural Reserve of the Desertas Islands comprises all islands and islets (Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, Bugio, and adjacent islets) and all of the surrounding marine area. It has been designated a nature reserve for over 25 years and is now internationally known for its monk seal conservation efforts. Today this protected area can be visited by sea. Deserta Grande is the only island where visitors can disembark, and you’ll enjoy a guided walk to the conservation center to learn about the monk seal protection efforts and also about endemic flora and fauna.

All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

9. All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

Your 3-hour luxury catamaran tour begins at the docks of the new marina of Funchal. Board the catamaran and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine before setting off. Sail into the ocean to find dolphins, whales, and turtles. Spot these creatures in their natural habitat. After sailing around spotting dolphins, whales and turtles enjoy a 30 minute stop next to Cabo Girão, the 1920 foot (586m) seaside cliff. Here you have a change o go swimming in the crystal clear waters. After a quick swim, you will get back on the boat where you can relax and enjoy the views of the coast of Funchal as you head back to the marina.

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

10. Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Look for whales and dolphins in their natural environment on a cruise with a dedicated crew. Powered by 2x 250hp engines, you can expect to cover larger distances than any other boat in Funchal in comfort. This means you will have the best chance to spot marine wildlife. Listen to informative commentary about the sea life of Madeira, as your crew and marine biologist guide make sure you have a great time whilst learning about the local cetaceans, fauna, and flora. Encounter groups of dolphins, whales, and turtles, and get up-close sightings as you speed across large distances in little time. Marvel as the animals splash about in the water and learn more about these amazing creatures and life in the ocean from your guide. Wildlife spotters work hard on land to find the animals before you set out on your trip. Depending on the species and sea conditions, you can get very close to the whales and dolphins, but remember, it is wildlife, and the primary goal is to be respectful of their habitat.

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What people are saying about Madeira

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 4,572 reviews

Great experience! We were able to see common dolphins and even some rare beaked whales, which our guide and marine biologist was able to tell us all about. I really recommend this company as they really value nature and wildlife and respecting it fully, which is so important for sustainability. Lovely views, comfortable on the boat, with great coffee too!

Great jeep safari tour! We got to see a lot of places we would never reach by car or public transport. Plenty of time to enjoy the viewpoints and take pictures. Wonderfull driver and a lot of explanations about the fauna and flora of the island.

Very good first experience, mixing road, levadas, tails and single tracks Very good bikes Jimmy knows the techique very well and shares it

Very beautiful landscape. Viewpoints were very impressive. Really nice island

We had Gil as a guide, he was able to tell us a lot in German.