sea the best catamaran funchal

Discover the beauty of Madeira Island on a sailing trip

Join us on this trip and discover the coast of Madeira Island and the

marine biodiversity we have here.

In our region there are several marine species of dolphins, whales or turtles being observed throughout the year

Our mission is to provide you with a calm and relaxing trip, with the purpose of knowing and observing the beauty of the Madeiran coast with comfort and stability.

We are also dedicated to the observation of dolphins, whales or turtles that live in our region throughout the year, there is always a strong possibility of observing the various species during the course of our trips., during the summer months, passengers have the opportunity to dive into the bay of cabo girão, the second-largest cliff in the world..

"Cabo Girão"

Cabo Girão is located 9km by the sea in the southern part of the Island. It is the second highest cliff in the world, 580 meters high. In the summer we stop along this bay so that passengers have the opportunity to dive in the crystal clear waters.

"Looking for dolphins  and whales"

Strong Possibility of seeing, several species of dolphins, whales or even turtles. Most of these species reside in our region throughout the year while other species are present only by passage. We recall that they are free animals in their natural habitat.

"Protect the Ocean"

We are alerted to the environmental issue, the oceans are increasingly facing serious threats, such as pollution, destruction of habitats and disappearance of biodiversity. As Humans, we must take the initiative to respect and protect the ocean, avoiding trash at sea, plastics among others that damage the ecosystem.

"Fantastic morning out with these guys. Friendly, informative and great fun. A great Ocean ride. The bonus we saw Bottlenose and Atlantic Spotted dolphins as well as Sperm whales. Highly recommend a trip with them."

Sue Chastney, facebook

Praça do Povo, Cais 8 - Funchal

[email protected]

+351 291 231 312

Please note:

We ensure a timely departure for all our guests.

Please arrive to our office in Funchal Marina 30 minutes before departure were we will exchange your ticket for a boarding card.

Please note that if you miss the boat, you will not be eligible for a refund.

Cancellations/changes to reservations must be made 24 hours before departure time.

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Seaborn and Seaborn II

VMT Madeira - Catamaran Trips

Our company has been operating for the last nine years, taking clients out to sea to watch dolphins, whales and turtles in their natural habitat, on our first catamaran "Sea Pleasure". This catamaran is a 65 foot 'Ocean Voyager', manufactured by C...

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• Madeira Catamaran

Our company has been operating for the last nine years, taking clients out to sea to watch dolphins, whales and turtles in their natural habitat, on our first catamaran "Sea Pleasure". This catamaran is a 65 foot 'Ocean Voyager', manufactured by CIM Shipyard – La Rochelle, France, with a capacity for 70 passengers.

Due to increasing demand for this activity, especially in the summer months, we took delivery of a second catamaran in June 2008. This catamaran "Sea the Best" is a 75 foot 'Taiti', manufactured by Fontaine-Pajot – La Rochelle, France, with a capacity for 98 passengers.

Second Trip Free...

On your first trip with us, if there are no sightings of cetaceans (neither dolphins nor whales), we offer you a second trip entirely free.

We are proud to be the only Catamaran company to offer this second chance and always satisfy our clients with a cetacean observation!

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Come aboard one of our comfortable catamarans for a relaxing trip along the South coast of Madeira.

The duration of the trip is 3 hours, with a strong possibility of spotting whales and dolphins in all their magnitude and in their natural habitat.

During the summer months there is a possibility for a stop for swimming below the cliffs of ?Cabo Girão?, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world at 580 m in altitude.

During the trip, our qualified crew will give you detailed information in various languages about the species of cetaceans you are seeing, as well as other technical and historic information to ensure a complete and unique experience.

Discover the beauty of Madeira Sea and Coast line on board our catamaran. Possibility to see dolphins, whales and turtles. In the Summer you have the chance to swim and do snorkeling.

MEETING POINT: Kiosk VMT Madeira - Cais 8, Funchal Marina (below Praça do Povo)

CONDITIONS:

(*) In the case we don't see any cetaceans, we offer a second trip!

(!) Check-in ends 30 minutes before the departure.

Don?t Forget:- Sunscreen, towel, bathing suit and windbreaker

2 Adults up to 4 Children

Everyday from 10h30 to 13h30 and/or 15h00 to 18h00.

Check in is obligatory 30 minutes before each trip, sightings guaranteed – if no cetaceans are seen, we offer a second trip for free.

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10 Best Boat Tours On Madeira Island

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

Categories MADEIRA , TOURS

Without a doubt, Madeira is one of the best island destinations in the world. Its dramatic coastline, black sand beaches, and crystal clear waters lure travelers far and wide. And while the mountain trails and levada walks are also stunning, seeing the island from the sea is an unparalleled experience. I based in Madeira for six months to discover as much of the island as possible, and have compiled these 10 best boat trips on Madeira to make the most of your stay. Hopefully, with this guide, you’ll find some amazing boat tours on Madeira!

My personal favorites are Swim with Dolphins for its swim with 2 different species of dolphins and Desertas Island Catamaran for its conservation center.

Table of Contents

QUICK PICKS: TOP 3 TOURS ON MADEIRA

Don’t have time to read my entire article about the best boat tours on Madeira? No worries! All in all, these are the most popular Madeira boat trips.

Dolphin & Whale Watching

• Departs from Funchal
• Catamaran Cruise
• Top Tour on Madeira

• Swim with Dolphins
• Eco-Friendly
• 2 Species of Dolphins

Desertas Island Catamaran

• Sail to Desertas
• Swim at Volcanic Beach
• Conservation Center

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN MADEIRA

• Ultimate Luxury: Les Suites at Cliff Bay best location and view
• Best Value : Hotel Alto Lido – Funchal rooftop swimming pool under 100 Euros
• Budget Hostel in Funchal: Santa Maria Hostel is easily the top hostel in Funchal

10 BEST BOAT TOURS ON MADEIRA COMPARISON TABLE

To sum up, here’s a table listing the top 10 boat tours on Madeira and their rates per person. If you’re interested in booking other tours than just Madeira boat trips, try my 20 Best Tours on Madeira Guide . And if you want to hike through the Island as I did, here are my 60 Best Hikes on Madeira .

10 BEST BOAT TOURS ON MADEIRA

The following are the 10 best boat tours on Madeira. From whale-watching adventures to catamaran cruises and historical voyages, there’s something for everyone in the following list. Get Your Guide is a popular booking platform for activities on Madeira and one I recommend to reserve these tours. If you’re interested in booking other tours than just Madeira boat trips, try my 20 Best Tours on Madeira Guide . Whether you swim with dolphins or explore nearby islands, I hope you’ll find the perfect Madeira boat trip for you.

DOLPHIN AND WHALE WATCHING CATAMARAN CRUISE

Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise : this is the most popular boat tour on Madeira, and with over 1000 5-star reviews, it’s easy to see why. The cruise departs from Funchal and begins with a sail around the stunning coastline. The experienced captain and crew then explore the waters off the coast for dolphin and whale sightings.

Following the wildlife encounters, snorkeling equipment is provided for a swim in the sea. The cliffside of Cabo Girão makes for an epic backdrop to your afternoon swim. Meanwhile, drinks are available for purchase at the onboard bar. And even though the marine life may remain elusive, guests still enjoy a memorable sail along the coast of Madeira. For that reason, it’s the most booked Madeira boat trip.

Book your tour: Dolphin & Whale Watching

Funchal Sunset Tour by Catamaran

Funchal Sunset Tour by Catamaran: For those wanting a romantic Madeira boat tour, look no further than this Funchal sunset catamaran cruise. To begin with, this tour departs from the Marina do Funchal and spends the next 3 hours sailing off into the sunset along the south coast of Madeira. A knowledgeable crew will be on hand to provide information in English and Portuguese, with historic sites and dolphins and whales to be seen.

What’s more, if no dolphins or whales are spotted, guests receive a 2nd trip free of cost. In truth, spending golden hour sailing along one of the most beautiful islands in the world is more than worth the price of the tour, but the guarantee is a thoughtful touch. Lastly, don’t forget to pack a wind-jacket and warm clothes for the evening sail home. Altogether, this is one of the best Funchal boat trips available.

Book your tour: Sunset Tour Catamaran

Sunset Tour Catamaran

• 3 Hour Sail
• Dolphins & Whales
• Golden Hour Views

Flagship Tour of Santa Maria de Colombo

Flagship Tour of Santa Maria de Colombo: If you’ve visited the nearby island of Porto Sato, you’ll have heard that Christopher Columbus once called the island home, even marrying the governor’s daughter there. Rumor has it he learned much about sailing while living on the island and stopping through Madeira’s ports. In view of Madeira’s role in maritime history, this tour of a replica of the Santa Maria is very popular.

This Madeira boat trip takes passengers on a journey back through time. The ship is a well-made replica of the Santa Maria, a 15th-century ship sailed by Colombus. Certainly, it’s a bit touristy, but it’s well worth the ticket. Firstly, the sail begins with a visit to Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe, and the second highest in the world. Here, guests can swim in the warm Atlantic waters, with local wine and honey cake on offer. Afterward, the tour slowly returns to Funchal. Dolphins and whales are occasionally spotted, marking the end to a perfect day on the water. For these reasons, it’s one of the most popular boat tours on Madeira.

Book your tour: Santa Maria de Colombo

Santa Maria de Colombo

• Historical Ship Replica
• Sail to Cabo Girão
• Swim in the Sea

Madeira Sea Fishing Trip

Madeira Sea Fishing offers the best fisihing experience on Madeira with options suited to you! They are experts in big game fishing where you’ll have the chance to catch the fish of a life time as Madeira is one of the best places in the world for big Blue Marlin. Our fishing grounds are not far from shore so while you’re fishing you can enjoy the amazing views of Madeira accompanied with a nice cold drink which are included .

You don’t need to be a professional fisherman or have any experience, anyone can do it as they explain what to do and how to beforehand , rest assured the crew is well experienced and will help you out. I’ve personally been onbaord with Nuno and Joseph and they taught me all the basic skills to help me catch a giant Bonito! They offer bottom fishing targeting Snapper, Bonito, and Amberjacks or big game fishing where you troll for Tuna, Wahoo’s and (in the main season) Blue Marlin.

Madeira Sea Fishing

• Local Legend Guides
• Catch a Marlin!
• Awesome coastal views

Dolphin and Whale Watching Luxury Catamaran

Dolphin and Whale Watching Luxury Catamaran: This Madeira boat tour is also a dolphin and whale watching excursion, but on a luxurious catamaran. The trip begins at the Funchal Marina, where the crew will provide a quick briefing before setting sail. Guests can choose from a luxurious interior or outdoor sun beds and trampoline nets.

While keeping an eye open for cetaceans, the catamaran sails for Cabo Girão. The 1000m cliff rising above makes a gorgeous backdrop while you sunbathe or swim in the sea. Snorkeling gear is provided for those wishing to explore underwater. Finally, the journey ends with a leisurely cruise back to the marina, capping off a wonderful Funchal boat trip.

Book your tour: Dolphin & Whale Catamaran

Dolphin & Whale Catamaran

• Luxury Catamaran

Swimming with Dolphins

Swimming with Dolphins: personally, this is my favorite Madeira boat trip, and one I highly recommend. It’s also one of the most popular tours on Madeira, full stop. The tour departs out of Funchal, and heads out to sea with an experienced crew. The regulations for swimming with Madeira’s dolphins are strict – in order to prevent disturbing their natural behaviors. Due to this, entering the water is not always guaranteed. In fact, dolphin sightings alone can’t be certain, which makes their guarantee so welcome.

That is, if no dolphins are seen, you can reschedule for free, or receive a voucher valid for two years. Additionally, if swimming isn’t possible, guests receive a refund between the price of the viewing and the swimming trip. For those lucky enough to swim with wild dolphins, both common dolphins and spotted dolphins can be encountered.

Throughout the swimming experience, guests remain safely connected to the boat, while being gently pulled along the water. Curious dolphins glide past and interact with swimmers in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In light of this, swimming with dolphins is one of my favorite boat tours on Madeira.

Book your tour: Swim with Dolphins

Desertas Island Full-Day Catamaran Trip

Desertas Island Full-Day Catamaran Trip: The ecologically protected Desertas islands make for a beautiful day trip from Madeira. On this catamaran trip, guests set sail along the southern coast of Madeira, heading to the rugged islands on the horizon. Once at Desertas, you’ll drop anchor at one of the volcanic beaches and enjoy a refreshing swim. After that, you’ll disembark at Deserta Grande, the only island in the chain accessible to tourists.

The rest of the islands are a protected reserve, with scientists studying the local marine life. As a result, the waters along Desertas are pristine and can offer rare sightings of local wildlife. At any rate, guests can visit the conservation center on Deserta Grande to learn more about the conservation efforts in the area. Finally, you’ll set sail on the return journey to Funchal to end the Catamaran trip. All in all, it’s a wonderful Madeira boat trip to the neighboring island chain.

Book your tour: Desertas Island Catamaran

Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Trip

Dolphin and Whale Watching Sailing Tri p: This is a wonderful way to experience the usual Madeira dolphin and whale watching tour. Being that most of the other tours take place on crowded catamarans, this journey offers guests the opportunity to board a sailboat for more nautical vibes. Overall, this Madeira boat trip feels less touristy than a lot of the others and offers an incredible day of sailing off the coast.

Other than that, the trip follows the same itinerary as the other dolphin and whale-watching cruises. The ship departs from Funchal ad heads to Cabo Girão. There, you can swim or snorkel with provided gear. This tour does include a complimentary drink, which is a nice upgrade compared to the other tours. In any case, this is a great alternative Madeira boat tour.

Book your tour: Dolphin & Whale Sailing

Dolphin & Whale Sailing

• Swim in Sea
• Complimentary Drink

All-Inclusive Luxury Catamaran

All-Inclusive Luxury Catamaran: This is yet another upgraded option to the usual catamaran trips. It’s a little over double the price of the other boat trips on Madeira, but well worth the splurge. Again, the itinerary follows the standard route – Funchal to Cabo Girão for a swim, with dolphin and whale watching along the way. The only difference is in the unlimited food and beverage whilst on board.

For instance, guests are served sparkling wine before setting off. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages regularly make the rounds, and drinks are unlimited – including alcohol. The crew is also trained to a tee and provides impeccable VIP service. With smaller group sizes as well, the tour has the feeling of a private charter, making for a memorable Funchal boat trip.

Book your tour: All Inclusive Luxury Catamaran

All Inclusive Luxury Catamaran

• Unlimited Drinks
• Local Snacks
• VIP Service

Ponta de São Lourenço Boat Tour

Ponta de São Lourenço Boat Tour: This is an adventurous way to explore the coast along São Lourenço, one of the most scenic parts of the island. Unlike the other tours on the list, this trip departs from Marina Quinta do Lorde. Once on the speed boat, you’ll sail around the beautiful coastline of Ponta de São Lourenço as well as Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro, the North Coast.

Viewing the oldest lighthouse in the Madeira Archipelago is a highlight, as well as cruising into hidden caves and bays. The best part is that there are several options for starting and end points to this tour, meaning you can get dropped off and finish the boat tour with a hike if you wish. On the whole, it’s an exhilarating way to view one of Madeira’s most iconic landmarks, and one of my favorite boat trips in Madeira.

Book your tour: São Lourenço Boat Tour

São Lourenço Boat Tour

• Multiple Start/ End Points
• Discover Caves and Bays
• 150-Year Old Lighthouse

Dolphin & Whale Watching Sunset Sailing

Dolphin & Whale Watching Sunset Sailing: The final tour on the list combines a few of my favorite things. Dolphins, sunsets, and sailing. This tour begins in Funchal just as the light begins the change. As you sail along the south coast, dolphins and whales can often be seen. Then while daylight changes to golden hour, enjoy a swim alongside the sea cliffs of Cabo Girão.

Each guest receives a complimentary adult drink, which is best enjoyed as the sun begins to set. Undoubtedly, onboard a sailboat is one of the best ways to enjoy a Madeiran sunset. Afterward, the tour returns to Funchal, while guests can enjoy blue hour hues on the journey home. This is one of the most magical Madeira boat trips out there, and one I can’t recommend enough.

Book your tour: Dolphin & Whale Sunset Sailing

Dolphin & Whale Sunset Sailing

• Sailboat Ride
• Sunset at Cabo Girão

In conclusion, these are the top 20 Boat Tours in Madeira. Each of these is an excellent way to enjoy this beautiful island, and I highly recommend trying at least one on your upcoming stay. Just don’t forget the sunscreen and the jacket for the journey home!

WONDERING ABOUT WHERE TO STAY ON MADEIRA?

Throughout my six months on Madeira Island, I stayed in multiple accommodations. My favorite regions to stay in were Funchal and Canico de Baixo. I’ve created several guides to help you find the right region for you and a great hotel or apartment.

• The ultimate guide: WHERE TO STAY ON MADEIRA: WHICH REGION IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
• If you want luxury: BEST 5-STAR LUXURY HOTELS ON MADEIRA ISLAND
• To feel at home: TOP 10 BOUTIQUE HOTELS ON MADEIRA ISLAND
• If you want to base in Funchal: WHERE TO STAY IN FUNCHAL: 15 TOP-RATED HOTELS

HAVE YOU READ MY OTHER MADEIRA BLOGS?

I spent six months exploring Madeira and the nearby island of Porto Santo . These are some of my most popular guides about the region that you may be interested in.

• My favorite hikes: 65 AWESOME HIKES ON MADEIRA
• My favorite levada walks: 25 BEAUTIFUL LEVADA WALKS ON MADEIRA
• The best waterfalls on the island: 25 EPIC WATERFALLS ON MADEIRA
• Guide to the best Accommodation: WHERE TO STAY ON MADEIRA
• Hardest hike: THE MADEIRA ISLAND ULTRA TRAIL IN 4 DAYS (115KM)
• Longest hike: CAMINHO REAL 23: MADEIRA’S ROYAL PATH (180KM)

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY ON MADEIRA

When you book your Madeira Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use  Discover Cars . They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal! MUST Read: Guide to Renting a Car on Madeira

VipDolphins All Inclusive Catamaran For Whale Watching in Funchal

We come across Dolphins and Whales in 98% of our trips!

Informations, book anytime anywhere, this is an experience you don’t want to miss.

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How to Charter a Boat

If you want to sail off into the sunset, at least temporarily, you need to understand how to get aboard first.

By Lauren Sloss

This time of year, it’s an inevitable thought: Life would be that much better out on the water. Specifically, on a boat.

Even if you have neither a boat nor boating experience, it’s never been easier to make your nautical dreams come true — whether you want a day trip on your local lake or a fully staffed multiday voyage in a far-flung locale. Here are the initial questions that will help you plan an adventure on the water.

Whom are you traveling with?

Thinking about the size and dynamic of your group is an important first step, even if you are simply going on a day trip. Will children be on board? How old? What about elderly parents?

Dan Lockyer, the chief commercial officer of Dream Yacht Worldwide , strongly encourages travelers to determine group size — and, ideally, get people committed — before booking.

“The location that you want to go to, the time of year that you want to go, the type of boat that you want will entirely depend on the makeup of the group that you’re sailing with,” Mr. Lockyer said.

Do you want to captain, or do you want a captain?

Different charter companies specialize in certain locations, types of boats, itineraries and services. Some companies offer the opportunity for a “bareboat” charter, in which you rent the boat and take on the navigation and provisioning yourself, while others exclusively offer fully staffed options, including a captain and a cook.

If you want to captain the boat yourself, almost all outfits require some kind of proof of sailing or boating experience, often in line with local regulations.

Edward King, 45, an executive at a streaming company based in San Francisco, is experienced in sailing the city’s waterways. But on vacation, he said he would prefer to let a captain and crew take the lead.

Mr. King said he appreciates a captain who is familiar with both the local waters — “they’ll know how to avoid sailing into a certain sandbar,” he said, — as well as the local attractions.

In contrast, Matt Blake, 38, a software engineer based in Oakland, Calif., was eager to grow his sailing experience during a recent trip to La Paz, Mexico, with his fiancée. He hired a captain but made clear that the captain was there to help and teach.

Where do you want to go?

“Do you want something that’s more culturally oriented? Nature oriented? An adventure trip?” asked Mary Curry, the voyage product director of Adventure Life , which offers small group tours and private trips on land and on water around the world.

That answer can determine your destination. Popular cruising grounds include the Caribbean, Croatia, Alaska and French Polynesia, but the sky — or the sea — is really the limit. For help narrowing your focus, travel advisers often have relationships with charter companies or outfits around the world, and sailing publications offer recommendations.

Kyla Malkani, who has had experience with charters working as a destination wedding planner, recommends consulting the concierge of waterfront hotels, particularly for short-term or day rentals.

“A lot of times they will have either their own fleet or they will have some sort of connection at a dock,” said Ms. Malkani, 37, who is based in Washington, D.C., and is currently working as a content creator and freelance event planner.

What kind of boat?

Where you want to travel and for how long will likely determine the kinds of boats that are available to you. Crucial at this point, too, is an understanding of the boat’s layout and amenities.

“You definitely want to choose the right kind of boat,” said Ms. Malkani. “If you want more adventure, a sailboat is nice. If you’re looking for a luxury party environment, a yacht is best. And if you’re looking for something smooth, for older people or with kids, a catamaran is great.”

David Barclay is a luxury travel adviser who has also chartered boats for his own vacations.

“You want to match what the travelers want to what the boat offers,” he said.

Perhaps a group of friends might not mind a catamaran with functional but not luxurious marine bathrooms, but a multigenerational group might prefer more high-touch amenities.

When should I book?

Often, charter trips are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that require a great deal of advanced planning.

“You may have a specific place you want to go, or a specific time of year you want to travel,” said Mr. Barclay. “And some places just aren’t good at certain times of year.”

Naturally, you don’t want to be at sea in the Caribbean during hurricane season, or in the Mediterranean during winter storms. But you also might want to avoid peak cruising seasons, too.

The first three weeks of August are quite popular, said Mr. Lockyer. “If you have some flexibility and can travel in early July, you’ll get the same sort of great weather, a greater selection of boats and the anchorages won’t be as crowded.”

How much does it cost?

Charter costs are incredibly variable, dependent on all of the factors coming into play: your boat type and size, your destination, your group size, the amount of crew you’d like and the amenities on board. That said, costs could range anywhere from $2,000 for a day on a sailboat to hundreds of thousands of dollars for a multiday mega-yacht charter. Have a budget in mind when beginning your research process.

What if I didn’t plan far in advance?

While advanced planning is encouraged, and often necessary for bigger boat trips, it’s possible to book a boat last-minute.

Boatsetter , an Airbnb-like platform for boats, is a good resource for last-minute bookings, especially for day trips, and even has an Instant Book option for down-to-the-wire bookings.

“If it’s for a special event, or around major holidays, you may want to book a month or two in advance. But for general bookings, you can find options within a week or two,” said Kim Koditek, Boatsetter’s head of brand strategy and communications, of the company’s overnight offerings, which appear on their platform under the luxury yacht charters category .

Ms. Malkani has used Boatsetter for some of her charters, most of which have been booked with a specific goal in mind.

“I’m a sunset chaser,” she said. “My husband and I just really love being on the water, and we always try to squeeze in some sort of boat day activity when we’re traveling.”

For more travel advice, visit our collection of Travel 101 tips and hacks.

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