Set sail from Funchal along Madeira’s dramatic cliffs with Gaviao Madeira’s boat tours focused on dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Dive into snorkeling or relax on deck while learning about the region’s vibrant marine life and spectacular ocean vistas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for boarding and disembarking the boat.
Wildlife
History
Cabo Girão has been an important landmark for Madeira’s fishing and maritime navigation since the 16th century.
Conservation
Madeira's marine tours emphasize responsible wildlife viewing to protect local cetacean populations and ocean health.
Gaviao Madeira
Set sail from Funchal along Madeira’s dramatic cliffs with Gaviao Madeira’s boat tours focused on dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Dive into snorkeling or relax on deck while learning about the region’s vibrant marine life and spectacular ocean vistas.
Gaviao Madeira is a boat tour operator based in Funchal, Madeira, offering marine wildlife excursions and coastal cruises. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Gaviao Madeira runs departures from Funchal to explore the waters near Cabo Girão and Madeira’s western bays. Its main experiences include a Cabo Girão cruise for dolphin, whale and sea turtle observation with optional snorkeling and a complimentary drink; a sunset boat tour from Funchal focused on dolphin and whale sightings with opportunities to swim and enjoy a drink while watching the sunset; and a west-coast bay sailing trip that includes a scenic route, swimming stops and an onboard lunch.
All trips operate from Funchal and emphasize wildlife observation and safe swimming in permitted areas. Guests can expect coastal views, onboard refreshments on selected departures, and snorkeling equipment availability on excursions that include swimming. The company’s itineraries combine wildlife watching, scenic coastline photography, and relaxed time on deck to suit a range of visitors.
Booking information, departure times and accessibility details are available via the operator’s booking channels. Gaviao Madeira’s presence in Funchal makes it convenient for visitors staying in the city to join short coastal cruises, sunset tours or longer bay excursions with lunch. Tours are suitable for a wide range of guests, including families and first-time snorkelers, and reservations are recommended during peak tourist months. Check current schedules and availability online.
Location
Funchal, Madeira
Departure point for all trips
Tours Offered
3 tours
Cabo Girão, sunset, west-bay lunch
Wildlife
Dolphins & whales
Sea turtles and snorkeling opportunities
Departures
From Funchal
Convenient city access
Reserve a Cabo Girão wildlife cruise, sunset tour or west-bay lunch sail — check availability and book departures from Funchal.
Bring waterproof gear
A waterproof bag or case keeps your camera and valuables safe from splashes during the boat ride.
Arrive early
Arriving 15 minutes before departure helps ensure a smooth boarding process, especially in peak seasons.
Motion sickness preparation
If prone to seasickness, take preventive medication or use acupressure bands before boarding.
Respect wildlife distances
Maintain distance from marine animals and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance.
Sunscreen
Protect skin from strong Atlantic sun during the boat trip.
summer
Waterproof camera or case
Capture marine life and coastal views without risking damage to your gear.
Comfortable layers
Variable weather calls for lightweight jackets or windbreakers.
spring
Swimwear and towel
Bring swimwear for snorkeling and a towel for drying off afterward.
summer