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A small-group wildlife experience designed around ethical viewing and marine research support. Travel offshore on a fast, manoeuvrable speedboat with a marine biologist onboard, focusing on respectful encounters with Madeira’s resident and migratory cetaceans.
After check-in at the marina (arrive at least 20 minutes before departure), you’ll receive a safety and wildlife briefing before heading offshore on a high-speed vessel. The boat’s performance allows quick travel to active areas, guided by land-based professional spotters who monitor cetacean movements in real time.
Once animals are located, the skipper adjusts speed and positioning to observe them without disturbing natural behaviour. A marine biologist provides live interpretation throughout the trip, explaining species identification, behaviour patterns, and conservation measures in place around Madeira. Sightings may include bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, spotted dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, and seasonally fin or Bryde’s whales.
The focus is observation only — no feeding, chasing, or disruptive practices. Each trip supports ongoing marine awareness and responsible tourism principles, ensuring the experience remains sustainable as well as informative.
The tour departs directly from Funchal Marina, centrally located and within walking distance of many hotels. Boarding is straightforward and organised to ensure timely departures.
Madeira’s deep offshore waters lie close to the coastline, creating ideal conditions for year-round whale and dolphin sightings. Routes vary depending on wildlife activity and sea conditions on the day.
No previous experience is required. Participants must be comfortable on a moving boat in open water.
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travellers or individuals with serious back or heart conditions. The vessel is not wheelchair accessible.
With a maximum of 18 passengers, the trip avoids the crowding common on large catamarans. The smaller format allows clearer viewing lines, closer interpretation from the guide, and more responsive manoeuvring offshore.
Ethical wildlife practices are central to every tour. Collaboration with land-based spotters reduces unnecessary searching, limiting fuel use and disturbance while increasing sighting efficiency.
Sightings occur on approximately 99% of tours.
If no whales or dolphins are sighted, which is extremely rare, a free repeat tour or voucher valid for two years is offered.
Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, spotted dolphins, pilot whales, and sperm whales.
Seasonal visitors may include fin whales and Bryde’s whales.
Approaches follow strict regional guidelines to protect wildlife.
Animals may choose to approach the boat, but distances are controlled by the skipper.
Yes, children aged 6 and above can participate.
All guests must follow safety instructions and wear life jackets when required.
The vessel is designed for speed and manoeuvrability, reducing time spent searching offshore.
Sea conditions vary, so a light jacket is recommended.
Speedboats generally reduce rolling compared to slower vessels.
If you are prone to motion sickness, preventative measures are advisable.
No, this is an observation-only experience.
The focus is on ethical viewing and natural behaviour.
The total experience lasts approximately two hours.
Time spent near wildlife depends on sightings and behaviour.
Bring a light jacket, especially in cooler months.
Sun protection is recommended in summer.
Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for check-in and briefing.
Late arrivals may miss the scheduled departure.
About the centre
Marina do Funchal
Operated by Azul Diving Madeira, a partner of adventuro.
