Sep 28, 2026 - Sep 28, 2027
Every day at 10:30, 15:00
Meeting place
Funchal Marina
At VMT Madeira Kiosk in Funchal Marina, Pier 8 (Quiosque VMT Madeira, CRPF, 9000-055 Funchal)
Details
A coastal trip with the possibility of cetaceans watching in their natural habitat with a duration of 3 hours. We churn up the ocean in our search for the right coordinates, and there they are! Dolphins! Playful, communicative, energetic! Although it seems they are posing for photos, they are living in their own enchanted world. Whales, who may or may not give off embarrassing odours, decide if they will honour us with a visit. We sometimes have the opportunity of spotting turtles and seabirds.
Tour programme- Departure:
We meet at the VMT Madeira Kiosk in Funchal Marina, Pier 8. Check in is obligatory 30 minutes before each trip.
- Tour:
The catamaran heads out 5 to 6 miles from the coast, where we will try to spot the cetaceans. If the weather and the sea conditions are good, the catamaran will stop for a well-deserved swim in Fajã do Cabo Girão.
- Arrival:
The catamaran will return near the coast until Funchal.
Characteristics of the boat
- Bar
- Sun-protected area
- Restrooms
Included Services
- Cetacean guarantee: In case we don’t see any cetaceans, we offer a second trip! (Refunds only apply for trips canceled due to bad weather conditions).
- Snorkeling: On our trips, masks can be requested on board.
Not Included
- Snacks and Drinks
- Hotel pick-up and drop off
Bring along
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Bathing suit
- Windbreaker
Terms and Conditions
Refunds: Only applicable for cancellations due to bad weather or illness/accident reported 12h prior. Lost vouchers are not refunded.
Cetacean Guarantee: If no cetaceans are spotted, NO refunds are given. Instead, a non-transferable 'free trip' voucher is issued (validity extendable by management).
Free Transfer: YellowBus (Carristur) one-way transfer from Hotel (stops 14-22 on Estrada Monumental) to Marina. Available daily 9:00-14:30. Must present catamaran ticket.
Blue Flag Certified
VMT Madeira is a proud recipient of the Blue Flag award for eco-tourism. We adhere to rigorous criteria for environmental management, safety, and responsible wildlife interaction, maintaining strict safety and noise limits to respect the cetaceans' freedom.
Amazing trip on a big catamaran! We saw dolphins, a real experience. Afterwards, we had a lovely swim.
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Tanja · CoupleGermany · July 2026
It was a great tour, we saw a group of dolphins ♥️ The crew is very friendly and the prices on board aren't exorbitant either 👍
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Silvia · Solo travelerGermany · May 2026
A truly amazing experience!
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Showing 1 - 3 out of 10 reviews
Offers by VMT Madeira25 Reviews5 Offers
Is hotel pickup available and how do I request it?
While direct hotel pickup is not offered, there is a free one-way bus transfer from specific hotel stops (numbers 14-22 on Estrada Monumental) to the marina. You must present your catamaran ticket to use this service. The main meeting point is the VMT Madeira Kiosk at Pier 8 in the Funchal Marina.
What happens if we don't see any dolphins or whales?
In the unlikely event that no dolphins or whales are seen, you will receive a voucher for a second trip, free of charge. Please note that no refunds are given in this case.
Is there a stop for swimming?
Yes, if the sea and weather conditions are good, the boat makes a stop for a swim at Fajã do Cabo Girão.
How long is the trip?
The trip lasts for 3 hours.
What should I bring?
It is recommended to bring sunscreen, a towel, a bathing suit, and a windbreaker.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks can be requested on board. According to customer reviews, these are free to borrow.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the VMT Madeira Kiosk in the Funchal Marina, at Pier 8. Please note that you must check in 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Are there drinks or food available on board?
Yes, the boat has a bar where you can purchase drinks and snacks.
What wildlife can I see during the trip?
You will have the chance to see various marine animals in their natural habitat, most commonly dolphins and whales. With some luck, you might also spot turtles and seabirds.
Are there toilets on board?
Yes, there are restrooms available on the catamaran.
From
20 €
The checkyeti guarantee1-click cancellation7 days/week support100% price clarity
The activity Dolphins & Whales by VMT by VMT Madeira in Funchal is available every day, from September 29, 2026 through September 28, 2027. Each day offers 2 start times between 10:30 and 15:00. Sessions last 3 hours and are offered as group activities. Prices start from €20.00 for kids and €40.00 for adults.
Netherlands · July 2026
Germany · July 2026
