Set off from Funchal Marina for a three-hour luxury whale- and dolphin-watching cruise with sparkling wine, local snacks, and a swim stop beneath Cabo Girão. Modern comforts, snorkel gear and responsible wildlife viewing make this an accessible ocean outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips free of Funchal Marina with a clink of glasses—Portuguese sparkling wine handed around as the harbor fades, and the Atlantic begins to set the tempo. Sea air pushes forward against the rail, and dorsal fins soon puncture the surface like punctuation marks in an inland sentence. On a VipDolphins cruise, the ocean has agency: pods of common and bottlenose dolphins often choose the company, while larger whales can appear on open-water transects toward Cabo Girão.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short periods standing on deck and an optional swim stop.
Wildlife
History
Funchal grew from 15th-century Portuguese maritime expansion; the island’s fishing and wine trades shaped local seafaring traditions now visible in excursion hospitality.
Conservation
Operators follow regional guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing—keep distance, avoid rapid approaches, and limit time near animals to reduce disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for boarding
Plan to be at Funchal Marina 20–30 minutes before departure to check in and secure good photo positions.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Even calm Atlantic days can have swell—take preventative medication or use acupressure bands if you’re prone to seasickness.
Sun protection and layers
Wind and sun combine on open decks—wear a brimmed hat, sunscreen and a light windproof layer.
Water-ready kit
If you plan to swim, bring quick-dry swimwear and a waterproof bag; towels and snorkel gear are provided but a personal mask often fits better.
SEA SICKNESS MEDICATION
Helps ensure comfort on choppier days—take before boarding if you’re susceptible.
NON-SLIP DECK SHOES
Improves footing on wet decks during boarding and swimming stops.
SUN HAT & SUNSCREEN
Protects from strong Atlantic sun while out on deck.
summer
SWIMWEAR & QUICK-DRY TOWEL
For the swim stop beneath Cabo Girão; towels are provided but quick-dry is convenient.
summer