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A fast-paced two-hour wildlife experience focused on respectful encounters with Madeira’s resident and migratory cetaceans. Travel offshore on a high-powered speedboat with a marine biologist onboard, maximising your chances of sightings while maintaining strict animal welfare standards.
After check-in at the marina (arrive at least 20 minutes before departure), you’ll receive a short safety and wildlife briefing before boarding a 300-horsepower speedboat. The vessel’s speed and manoeuvrability allow efficient travel to active areas, increasing the likelihood of locating multiple pods or species during the tour.
Once wildlife is located, the skipper approaches carefully, respecting local regulations and animal behaviour. A certified guide and marine biologist provide live interpretation, explaining species characteristics, behaviour patterns, and conservation efforts around Madeira. Sightings may include common dolphins, spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, and occasionally fin or Bryde’s whales depending on season.
Under very specific conditions, and only with common or spotted dolphins, guests may be offered the opportunity to enter the water while remaining connected to the boat in small groups of four. This is not guaranteed and depends entirely on species, sea conditions, absence of juveniles, and stress-free behaviour from the animals. The priority is always animal welfare.
The tour departs directly from Funchal Marina, centrally located and within walking distance of many hotels. Boarding is straightforward, and facilities are available nearby.
Madeira’s deep offshore waters lie close to the coast, creating ideal conditions for year-round cetacean sightings. The route varies depending on wildlife activity and sea conditions on the day.
Participants must be at least 10 years old. No prior experience is required. Guests should be comfortable on a moving boat in open water.
If entering the water is offered, you should already be wearing swimwear and be confident in the sea. All participation in water entries is optional.
The combination of small group limits and a powerful speedboat allows efficient wildlife tracking without overcrowding. With a maximum of 18 participants, each guest has clear viewing space and direct access to expert guidance onboard.
Animal welfare is central to the operation. Approaches follow strict regional regulations, and decisions to enter the water are made conservatively, prioritising the wellbeing of dolphins and whales above all else.
No. This is primarily a wildlife observation tour. Water entry is only possible with common or spotted dolphins under strict environmental and behavioural conditions.
Even when those species are present, the final decision depends on sea state and animal behaviour.
Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, spotted dolphins, pilot whales, and sperm whales.
Seasonally, fin whales and Bryde’s whales may also pass through Madeiran waters.
A sighting of at least one dolphin or whale species is guaranteed.
If no species are observed, which is extremely rare, you will be offered another free tour or a voucher valid for two years.
Speedboats generally reduce prolonged rolling compared to slower vessels, but sea conditions vary.
If you are sensitive to motion, preventative measures are advisable.
Approaches follow strict local regulations to avoid disturbing natural behaviour.
Dolphins may choose to approach the boat themselves, but distances are controlled by the skipper.
Yes, for children aged 10 and above.
All participants must follow safety instructions and wear life jackets.
Arrive in swimwear if you wish to be ready for a possible water entry.
A light jacket is recommended due to wind exposure offshore.
Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to allow for check-in and briefing.
Late arrivals may miss the departure as trips run to schedule.
The maximum group size is 18 participants.
This smaller group format provides better visibility and more personalised guidance.
Yes. The operation follows Madeira’s strict marine wildlife regulations.
Animal welfare guidelines are respected at all times, and the crew will not pursue or pressure wildlife.
Informazioni sul centro
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