What days and times does the experience run?

Available Tuesdays and Fridays: marina lounge tastings at 16:30 and Gringo yacht sunset departures at 19:30, unless otherwise arranged.

What languages are the tastings offered in?

Bilingual sommelier commentary is provided in English and French.

How many guests per session?

Maximum 12 guests to preserve personalized storytelling and attention.

What is the price range?

Prices range from approximately €399 to €890 depending on the chosen tier and bottle selection.

Can I book the tasting as part of a private charter?

Yes—this is an add-on for private Gringo yacht charters or available on request at the Basalt & Glass lounge.

Are there age restrictions or allergy considerations?

Guests should be of legal drinking age; disclose allergies or dietary needs at booking so pairings can be adapted.

Madeira Sunset Wine Tasting Aboard the Gringo and Basalt & Glass Lounge

On Tales' Premium Wine Tasting is a short, sumptuous escape into the wines and seascapes of Madeira. Set at Marina da Calheta in Calheta, Madeira, Portugal, the experience runs from a boutique land-based tasting in the Basalt & Glass lounge to a private, sunset service aboard the Gringo yacht. Both formats pair carefully chosen Portuguese and Madeira bottles with clear Atlantic views, expert sommelier narrative, and a small-group setting limited to twelve guests. The tasting options move from the approachable to the esoteric: the Premium Discovery introduces modern Madeira viticulture across six bottles; the Atlantic Signature probes ocean-influenced terroir with ultra-premium selections; and Volcanic Reserve is a collector-focused suite of rare bottles. What makes this offering distinct is how the place shapes the pour. Marina da Calheta sits against steep volcanic sea cliffs and dark basalt coastline; wind, sun and Atlantic spray are part of the backstory in each glass. The sommelier frames each pour with sensory storytelling, explaining how volcanic soils, ocean breezes and centuries of trade shaped style and sweetness. Aboard the Gringo yacht, tasting becomes maritime: stabilized glasses, attentive service, and a horizon that flattens perspective. On land, Basalt & Glass folds tasting into a curated, minimal setting that emphasizes aroma and texture. Both choices deliver bilingual commentary in English and French and a format designed for special occasions, anniversaries and collectors looking for provenance and narrative alongside flavor. Practical details matter: sessions are offered Tuesdays and Fridays, with marina lounge slots at 16:30 and yacht sunset departures at 19:30 unless otherwise arranged. Group size caps ensure individualized attention; reserve early to secure your preferred tier. Prices vary by option, reflecting bottle rarity and pairing complexity. This tasting sits at the intersection of Madeiran heritage and contemporary hospitality. Madeira’s wine history stretches back to transatlantic commerce and centuries of winemaking innovation; this experience channels that lineage while giving guests a modern, sensory-led introduction. Expect possible sightings of coastal seabirds and offshore dolphins; operators emphasize respectful marine conduct and low-impact service. For travelers based in Calheta or nearby Funchal, the tasting is an efficient, memorable addition to hiking levadas, surf sessions or boat charters. Whether you choose a quiet lounge tasting or the cinematic sweep of the Gringo at sunset, On Tales’ Premium Wine Tasting transforms regional terroir into an hour and a half of close, informed tasting. Book early: groups are capped and vintages rotate, so disclose allergies or dietary needs when reserving. The three upgrade tiers suit curious newcomers and collectors alike; prices vary by selection. Confirm current rates and available dates when reserving the Gringo yacht or Basalt & Glass lounge. Add the tasting to a private charter for a fully tailored maritime evening experience.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Minimal physical effort required; accessible for most adults who can board a small yacht and stand or sit for tastings.

Wildlife

Common dolphins
Coastal seabirds (terns and shearwaters)

History

Madeira’s wine tradition dates back centuries and was shaped by Atlantic trade routes; fortified and dry styles evolved through maritime storage and climate.

Conservation

Operators limit group size and follow low-impact marine etiquette—avoid feeding wildlife, dispose of waste responsibly, and disclose allergies to reduce food waste.

On Tales is a maritime tour operator based in Calheta, Madeira. The company offers private and shared yacht experiences that focus on whale and dolphin watching, snorkeling, and coastal sightseeing. On Tales operates named vessels including Miranda, Gringo, and Esmeralda, each used for curated ocean trips around Madeira. The Miranda experience is a private whale and dolphin watching cruise that features a private yacht setting and includes a glass of sparkling wine, guided by a professional crew. Gringo is available for private charters, half-day four-hour private charters, full-day private charters, and a shared whale and dolphin watching option; Gringo accommodates up to 12 guests, combines wildlife spotting with snorkeling and visits to volcanic coves, and is crewed by a dedicated team. The Esmeralda runs a 2.5-hour private whale and dolphin watching trip from Calheta with expert guides, complimentary water, and snorkeling gear provided. On Tales focuses on comfort and safety: trips operate with professional crews and dedicated guides who lead wildlife encounters and snorkeling stops. Available formats include private yachts for intimate groups and shared cruises for smaller parties seeking a refined experience. Guests can expect opportunities to see local cetaceans, swim in clear volcanic coves, and enjoy drinks and onboard amenities where specified. Based in Calheta, Madeira, On Tales' itineraries launch from local harbors and are tailored around marine wildlife viewing, relaxation, and scenic coastal exploration. Trips offer private or shared options to suit group size and preference, spanning 2.5‑hour excursions up to full-day private charters and snorkeling stops.

Base locationCalheta, Madeira

Tours offered7+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace