Funchal, the capital city of Madeira island, is well known for its beautiful scenery and diverse marine life. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Funchal, and for good reason. With a plethora of species residing in the waters surrounding the island, there are countless opportunities to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, Funchal offers some of the best whale watching tours in the world. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the options available and help you plan your perfect whale watching adventure.
The 4 Best Whale Watching in Funchal
- Dolphins and Whales Watching in a Luxurious Catamaran
- Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour from Calheta
- Whale Watching Private Tour Including Drinks
- Seaborn Catamaran Dolphin and Whale Watching
The 4 Best Whale Watching in Funchal
1. Dolphins and Whales Watching in a Luxurious Catamaran
Bask in the sun and sea of Cabo Girão, one of the world’s tallest oceanside cliffs, on this luxurious catamaran excursion. Departing from Funchal Marina, this 2-3 hour cruise will take you on a dolphin and whale watching adventure, where you can spot marine life from the comfort of your cruise. Strap on the complimentary goggles and mask to take a closer look beneath the surface and learn about Madeira’s thriving ocean ecology.
Your tour includes a delicious lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off. The meeting point is at Praça do Povo, Av. Do Mar 4 9000-900 Funchal Portugal, and the end point is at Thi. Due to renovation work in Marina, the office has been moved to the new location Cais 8, where all the Catamarans are. Please look for the Magic Dolphin Kiosk, which is opposite from our Catamaran Magic Dolphin Eco. Make sure to arrive 20 minutes prior to the departure time. Experience the best whale watching and dolphin spotting adventure on this luxurious catamaran tour.
2. Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour from Calheta
This small-group yacht cruise offers a chance to customize the Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour from Calheta to your group’s preferences. Departure times throughout the day are available and the maximum group size is 8 people, providing a more personalized experience. Along the south coast of Madeira, enjoy majestic views of the island and spot bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, and Bryde’s whales in their natural environment. Swim and snorkel along the coast and take advantage of the included snorkel equipment (masks, fins, and tubes) to get a closer look at the marine life. Light refreshments such as water, fruit juice, soft drinks, and beer are provided, plus hair and body towels. Hotel transfers can be accommodated upon request for an additional charge depending on the hotel location. Meet at the On Tales – Whales and Dolphins Watching Tours meeting point at Porto Recreio da Calheta, Av. D. Manuel I Loja 42, 9370-133, Vila da.
3. Whale Watching Private Tour Including Drinks
A whale-watching tour off Madeira Island by private motor yacht is the perfect way to enjoy the experience without the crowds. The Miranda, your chartered vessel, will take you on a 2- to 4-hour excursion to spot marine life such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. To keep you hydrated and refreshed, the tour includes light snacks, mineral water, ice tea, fruit juice, Coca-Cola, Cola Zero, and local beer. A glass of sparkling wine is also served onboard. Additionally, snorkeling gear is provided for a closer look at the aquatic life. After the tour, a shower is available for a quick rinse. Departures are available throughout the day, allowing for flexibility in scheduling. Transportation to the meeting point can be arranged at an additional cost upon request. Join us for a wonderful whale-watching experience on the open sea with panoramic views of the Madeira coastline.
4. Seaborn Catamaran Dolphin and Whale Watching
Admire the views of Madeira’s coastline and look out for local wildlife with this catamaran adventure. This is a great activity for wildlife aficionados as you will have the chance to see whales and dolphins up close. The onboard bar service will allow you to order drinks as you travel and enjoy the stunning views of the coast. The catamaran crew will guide you to areas where dolphins, turtles, and whales have been spotted before, making it easier to see them. If you take the tour during summer months, you can even hop off the boat and go snorkeling. One of the best things about this tour is that you don’t need to have sailing experience as the crew will drive the boat. The meeting point is at Seaborn Catamaran, Nautisantos – Actividades Desportivas Lda Marina do Funchal. Please be at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure. The activity ends back at the meeting point. Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking and there’s no need to worry about the whales, dolphins, and turtles as this operator has been running whale watching tours for decades.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Whale Watching in Funchal
Are you planning on visiting Funchal and hoping to go whale watching? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about whale watching in Funchal to help you plan your trip.1. When is the Best Time of Year to See Whales in Funchal?
The best time of year to see whales in Funchal is from April to October. During this period, the sea is generally calm, and there is an abundance of food for the whales in the area. The peak season for whale watching is from June to September.2. Which Species of Whales can be seen in Funchal?
In Funchal, you can see various species of whales, including Fin whales, Humpback whales, Sperm whales, Sei whales, and occasionally even the Blue whales, which are rare to spot. You can also see dolphins, including Bottlenose, Spotted, and Common dolphins.3. What is the Best Time of Day to Go Whale Watching in Funchal?
The optimal time for whale watching in Funchal is early in the morning, from around 8:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. during the whale’s feeding hours. Late afternoon is also a great time to see whales, from 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. when the sea is generally calm.4. Do I Need to Book My Whale Watching Tour in Advance?
It is advisable to book your whale watching tour in advance, especially during the peak season, from June to September. Most tour operators have an online booking system, which makes the process of booking easy. Booking in advance ensures that you get a spot on the tour and avoid disappointment.5. What Should I Bring on My Whale Watching Tour?
It is essential to bring with you a few things on your whale watching tour. These include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a warm jacket, a camera, and binoculars. The sea breeze can often make the tour feel chilly, so bring a jacket or sweater to keep warm.6. What is the Duration of a Typical Whale Watching Tour in Funchal?
A typical whale watching tour in Funchal usually lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours. Some of the tour operators may offer longer tours, which include a stopover for snorkeling or swimming. Be sure to check the tour description before booking.7. What is the Cost of a Whale Watching Tour in Funchal?
The cost of a whale watching tour in Funchal depends on the tour operator you choose and the type of tour you want to undertake. The cost of a basic whale watching tour in Funchal is around €40 to €50 per adult, with discounts for children and seniors.8. What Should I Do If I Get Seasick?
If you feel seasick during a whale watching tour in Funchal, the best thing to do is to let the crew know immediately. Most of the tour operators have medications for seasickness on board. Alternatively, you can try to get some fresh air and focus on the horizon to reduce the feeling of nausea.9. How Close Will I Get to the Whales?
Funchal has strict whale watching guidelines, and tour operators must adhere to them. The guidelines state that boats must remain at least 50 meters away from the whales, ensuring the safety of both the whales and tourists. However, whales are curious creatures and may come closer to the boat.10. Is it Ethical to Go Whale Watching in Funchal?
Whale watching in Funchal is an ethical and sustainable activity, as long as tour operators adhere to the strict guidelines set in place. All tour operators must have trained guides on board, who educate tourists on how to interact with the whales safely. Moreover, a portion of the ticket cost goes towards whale conservation efforts.In conclusion, whale watching in Funchal is an exciting and rewarding experience that you should not miss. By following these frequently asked questions, you will not only have a great time, but you will also have a better understanding of what to expect during your whale watching tour.How to Do Whale Watching in Funchal: A Complete Guide
If you want to witness the majestic and enormous whales in their natural habitat, the island of Madeira is the perfect place to start. Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is a prime location for whale watching, with a variety of species that thrive in the waters surrounding the island. Here’s your complete guide on how to do whale watching in Funchal, including information on the best time to go, what to expect, and what you need to bring.Why Funchal is the Best Place for Whale Watching
The waters surrounding the island of Madeira are rich in nutrients, making it conducive to the growth of phytoplankton and zooplankton. This abundance of food draws in a variety of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and turtles. The waters around Madeira are also the breeding and birthing grounds for several species of whales, making it an ideal location for whale watching.The Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Funchal
The best time to go whale watching in Funchal is from April to October. During this time, the waters are calmer, and the sea is generally more tranquil, making it easier to spot whales and other marine animals. June to July is the peak whale watching season, as this is the time when the larger whales, such as sperm and fin whales, pass by. However, you can also spot several other species throughout the year.The Different Species of Whales You Can See in Funchal
Madeira is home to several different species of whales, some of which are permanent residents, while others are just passing through. Here are the most commonly sighted whale species in the waters surrounding Funchal:Sperm whales
Sperm whales are one of the most common species of whales found in the waters around Funchal. They grow up to 18 meters, making them the largest toothed predator in the world. These whales are known to dive deep into the ocean in search of giant squid, their primary food source.Fin whales
Fin whales are the second-largest whale species in the world, and they are commonly sighted in Funchal waters. They grow up to 27 meters, and their long, sleek bodies allow them to swim at high speeds.Common dolphins
Common dolphins are one of the most common species of dolphins found in the waters surrounding Funchal. These playful animals are known to travel in large groups, referred to as pods, and can often be seen following boats and surfacing close to shore.Short-finned pilot whales
Short-finned pilot whales are one of the more distinctive whale species found in Funchal waters. These whales have round, bulbous bodies and a long dorsal fin, and they frequently travel in groups of 20-30 individuals.What to Expect While on Your Whale Watching Tour
When you book a whale watching tour in Funchal, you’ll start by meeting your guide and boarding the boat. The boat will then set off from the harbor and head out to sea. The length of the tour will depend on the tour company and the time of year, but most tours last around 2-3 hours.As you head further out to sea, your guide will begin to look for signs of whale activity. These can include spotting the spouts of water created by the whales exhaling or seeing the tail flukes as they dive. Once a whale is spotted, the boat will approach slowly to ensure you get a good look without disturbing the animals.What to Bring on Your Whale Watching Tour
When you go on your whale watching tour in Funchal, there are a few things you’ll need to bring with you to ensure a comfortable and safe trip. Here’s a list of items to bring:- Warm clothing, such as a waterproof jacket or windbreaker, as it can get chilly out at sea
- Sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong out on the water
- A hat or cap to protect you from the sun
- A camera or binoculars to capture the sights and wildlife
- Flat-soled shoes that are non-slip in case the deck gets wet
Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in Funchal is an unforgettable experience that allows you to see some of the largest and most incredible creatures on earth. With its rich marine life, calm waters, and experienced guides, it’s the perfect place for anyone interested in whale watching. Follow the tips above, and you’ll be sure to have the time of your life.Table of Contents
