Set sail from Funchal aboard Ventura do Mar’s classic boat for a full day discovering Madeira’s remote bays. Snorkel, paddleboard, and feast with ocean views on this hands-on sailing adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be moderately fit to handle moving about the boat and water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Wildlife
History
The eastern tip of Madeira, Ponta de São Lourenço, is a protected natural reserve formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago.
Conservation
Ventura do Mar practices low-impact sailing with eco-friendly waste management to protect Madeira’s fragile marine ecosystems.
Ventura do Mar
Set sail from Funchal aboard Ventura do Mar’s classic boat for a full day discovering Madeira’s remote bays. Snorkel, paddleboard, and feast with ocean views on this hands-on sailing adventure.
Ventura do Mar is a maritime tour operator based in Funchal, Madeira, offering a range of guided boat experiences along Madeira’s south coast.
Departing from Marina do Funchal, Ventura do Mar runs whale and dolphin watching trips, full-day and half-day sailing tours, sunrise and sunset cruises, and historic Cabo Girão swims. Their Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour features a 2.5-hour outing with an educational briefing and experienced spotters, aimed at observing marine mammals native to the region, including 28 recorded species. Sailing excursions aboard the classic Ventura do Mar include the Baías and Fajãs routes, with snorkeling and stand-up paddleboard equipment provided and opportunities to swim in clear coastal waters. The Baías tour includes a lunch at Baia D’Abra with a drink; the Sunrise trip departs earlier for breakfast on board near the Reserva of Garajau. The Cabo Girão Historic Sailing Boat tour offers swimming near Europe’s highest sea cliff; the vessel is equipped with a bar and toilet, and warm coats are available on colder days. Sunset cruises include a swim, cocktails, snacks and live music. All trips emphasise safety and comfort while showcasing Madeira’s coastline, bays and marine life. Ventura do Mar operates from a well-known marina in Funchal and provides guided, equipment-inclusive outings tailored to sightseeing, wildlife watching and coastal swimming. Booking information and schedules are organised through the operator’s published trip listings. Tours accommodate snorkeling and paddleboarding, and the classic sailing vessel is used for multiple routes along Madeira's south coast for sightseeing and wildlife encounters.
Departure
Marina do Funchal
Central Funchal marina departures
Whale Species
28 species
Recorded species observed on tours
Tours Offered
6 unique trips
Range of boat experiences
Onboard Amenities
Snorkel, SUP, Bar, Toilet, Coats
Equipment and comfort provided onboard
Choose a whale-watching or sailing tour departing from Marina do Funchal. Check availability and book the preferred date.
Bring swimwear and towel
You’ll want to jump into the clear water—packing swimwear and a towel is essential.
Wear sturdy sandals or shoes
The boat deck and rocky shores can be slippery; practical footwear ensures safety.
Dress in layers
Ocean winds can change temperature quickly; bring a warm or waterproof jacket.
Seasickness preparation
If prone to seasickness, take preventative medication ahead of the trip.
Swimsuit
Necessary for swimming and snorkeling in the clear ocean.
summer
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and sea spray during cooler or rainy conditions.
spring
Sunscreen
Crucial for sun protection during long hours on the open water.
summer
Non-slip deck shoes
Provide grip and comfort moving on wet and uneven boat surfaces.