I love how this trip mixes whale-and-dolphin watching with real comfort—modern catamaran, small group feel, and free-flowing snacks and drinks. The crew, including folks like Sheila and Liv, tends to spot marine life fast and keep you informed while you relax. The one drawback to keep in mind: the sail can be a bit rough, so if you get seasick easily, plan for it.

What makes it especially fun for Madeira is the Cabo Girão swimming and snorkeling break in dramatic scenery. You get towels and snorkeling gear, and there’s even a spot to change and wash off after. Just remember: getting back on board after the water stop can be a little awkward, especially if the ladder is slick or you’re tired.

Quick hits before you go

• Max 17 passengers on a catamaran—more room to move, less crowding
• Champagne, cocktails, drinks, snacks, and desserts while you’re out on the water
• Snorkeling equipment, towels, and blankets are included for the swim break
• English-speaking experience with a crew that answers questions and points things out
• Cabo Girão stop gives you more than just watching from the deck
• Regulated close viewing can mean short windows when animals are nearby

Luxury whale watching in Funchal: the vibe you’re paying for

This is Madeira whale watching that aims for comfort, not chaos. You meet near public transport at Praça do Povo in Funchal, and you’re not stuck with a huge crowd pressing against the railing. With a maximum of 17 travelers, the boat feels calmer right away, which matters when you’re trying to read the sea for spouts and fins.

The catamaran itself is described as modern and well-appointed, with plenty of seating choices. Even better, the setup is practical: you can relax, but you’re still close enough to see what the crew is spotting.

And yes, you’ll get fed and watered. Think coffee or tea, soda, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks, plus snacks and biscuits that keep your energy up during the search.

The price: $95.53 and what you actually get for it

At about $95.53 per person, you’re paying for three things at once: a premium boat experience, a food-and-drink package, and a guided marine search that tries to deliver sightings. If you were to line up all those extras separately, it would usually cost more than one tidy ticket.

The best value here is the combination of (1) small group size and (2) included refreshments. On boats with dozens of people, you often spend the trip squeezed in, then pay extra for basic stuff. Here, you’re on the water for around three hours with snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear already handled.

The other value point: you’re also getting a swim and snorkeling stop by Cabo Girão, which turns the trip from just a viewing exercise into an activity. That’s a big deal in Madeira, where actual beaches aren’t everywhere.

Leaving the marina: what the “whale search” feels like

You sail from the Funchal marina area to look for dolphins and whales. The tone is relaxed but attentive. As marine life surfaces, the crew typically identifies what you’re seeing and gives quick, clear context—helpful when you don’t know the difference between dolphin types or pilot whales at a glance.

In the best moments, you get that movie-scene feeling: pods appearing close enough to matter and the boat staying tuned to where the animals move. A lot of sightings in this area are for dolphins and pilot whales, and you may also see whales at times—one highlight tied to pilot whales includes close, regulated viewing for a short stretch.

Important reality check: sea life is never guaranteed. The tour is designed for spotting, but conditions and animal movement drive what you actually see. Still, the experience stays enjoyable even if sightings are limited because you’re not on a bare-deck “wait and hope” cruise—you’re eating, drinking, and being guided while you watch.

Snacks and drinks on board: why it changes the whole trip

This is one of the clearest reasons people recommend the tour so strongly. You’re offered snacks and biscuits, coffee and/or tea, bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages. There are also desserts included, and the overall impression is that drinks keep coming.

In a practical sense, this matters because your time at sea is about your attention and your comfort. When you’re munching something and sipping something, you’re more likely to stay patient through slower stretches of the search. And when animals show up, you’re ready to watch instead of hungry and cranky.

The crew behavior is part of the package too. Names like Chico, Nico, and Francisco show up in feedback as captains or staff who keep things smooth and interactive. If you ask questions, they tend to respond, not just do a quick announcement and disappear.

The Cabo Girão swim and snorkeling stop: scenic water with actual use

After the marine search, you head to a swim and snorkeling break in clear waters at Cabo Girão. This is the part that upgrades the trip from sightseeing to doing. If you love ocean time, you’ll feel it right away: towels and snorkeling equipment are provided, so you’re not scrambling to rent or bring anything.

The water stop also tends to be timed for views. Cabo Girão is known for its dramatic setting, and being able to get in the water while looking at that rock-and-coast backdrop is a big reason this sailing is popular.

Plan for one small challenge: climbing back onto the catamaran can be a bit tricky. The ladder is mentioned as difficult for some people, so take your time, use the handholds, and don’t rush if you’re still catching your breath after swimming.

Also useful: there are notes about onboard facilities like two WCs and a place to rinse, change, and get comfortable again after you’re out of the water. That keeps the swim from feeling messy.

Comfort on a catamaran: when “smooth” doesn’t happen

Madeira waters can turn choppy even on days when the sky looks calm. Several comments point out that the sail may not be entirely smooth, and strong waves can show up without much warning. This is normal for island cruising, and it’s worth factoring in your own motion sensitivity.

What to do:

• If you’re prone to seasickness, bring your usual prevention (ginger, meds, or what works for you).
• Dress in layers. Wind on the water is real, and the boat can feel cooler than Funchal at the same moment.
• Keep your valuables secured while you’re moving to and from the swim area.

The good news is that catamarans generally feel stable compared to smaller boats. Still, I’d rather you show up prepared than try to tough it out.

Who should book this whale and dolphin cruise (and who might not)

This tour fits best if you want:

• A small-group catamaran experience where you can actually see what’s happening
• A trip that includes snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear
• A mix of marine watching plus a real swim break at Cabo Girão
• A crew that’s friendly and willing to answer questions as you go

It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling as a couple, friends, or families with kids old enough to participate. The tour notes that children under 3 aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

You might choose a different option if:

• You need calm, guaranteed sea conditions. The experience requires good weather, and the water can be rough.
• You’re only going for guaranteed whales at close range. That part is regulated and wildlife-dependent, and not every day delivers the exact scene you’re hoping for.

Getting to the meeting point and planning your timing

You start at Praça do Povo, 9000–900 Funchal, Portugal, and you end back at the same meeting area. The area is near public transportation, which is helpful if you don’t want to stress over parking.

Because it’s a ~three-hour experience, I’d treat it like an afternoon anchor. You’ll spend enough time on the water that it becomes a real event, but not so long that it wrecks your whole day.

Bring swim-ready gear if you have it, but don’t assume you’ll need to. Towels are included, and the staff handles snorkeling equipment. Still, having your own swimwear and maybe an extra layer makes the changeover easier.

Crew size and onboard layout: why the group feels personal

With a maximum of 17 travelers, you’re not fighting for space. You can pick a comfortable spot, watch from where you like, and move around without constantly stepping around strangers. People also note that the boat feels roomy with plenty of seating choices.

That matters for whale watching. You want to see spouts and listen for guidance from the crew. A crowded boat turns your attention into a pinball game. A small group keeps it focused—especially when the crew jumps in quickly to point out what’s happening.

Also, the swimming segment feels more manageable with fewer people. The captain and staff tend to help guests get back up when needed, including quick assistance right after swimming.

Should you book VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching?

Book it if you want Madeira whale watching that feels like a treat: small group, a comfortable catamaran, and real inclusions like drinks, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear. The Cabo Girão swim stop is a strong reason to choose this over a basic boat tour, and the overall service style sounds consistently friendly and attentive.

Skip it or shop around if you strongly prefer calm water and predictable viewing. Wildlife can be unpredictable, and the sail can be rough on some days. If you’re good with that reality and you’re excited to be active in the ocean, this is one of the most satisfying ways to spend an afternoon from Funchal.

FAQ

How long is the VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching tour?

It lasts about 3 hours (approximately).

Where does the tour start, and where does it end?

It starts at Praça do Povo, 9000–900 Funchal, Portugal, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are snacks, coffee and/or tea, alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, blankets, and towels.

Are pickup services included?

No. Pick-ups are not included.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English.

How many people are on the boat?

The tour has a maximum of 17 travelers.

Are children allowed?

Children under 3 years old are not allowed.

Do I need good weather for this activity?

Yes. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.