All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

If you’re hoping to combine wildlife spotting with a touch of luxury, this All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira is a compelling option. Offered by Oceano Pioneiro, this 3-hour trip takes you aboard the most spacious and well-equipped catamaran on the island, with the promise of seeing dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural environment—all while enjoying unlimited drinks, local snacks, and VIP service.

What really catches our eye is how travelers consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable crew, especially their guides Nico, Geordi, Luiz, and others. Plus, the stop at Cabo Girão’s dramatic cliff promises a fantastic swim opportunity with crystal-clear waters. The only real consideration? This is a shorter excursion, so if marine wildlife is your main focus, you might want to look for longer tours or those with guaranteed whale sightings.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, great service, and a diverse set of experiences in a relatively compact timeframe. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a social vibe with plenty of drinks and scenic views will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Comfortable Luxury: Spacious catamaran with indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Wildlife Viewing: Search for dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Stop: A 30-minute stop at Cabo Girão for swimming, snorkeling, and photos.
• All-Inclusive: Unlimited drinks, local snacks, and a welcome glass of sparkling wine included.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about marine life.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups ensure better views and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Setting Sail

Your journey begins at the VipDolphins kiosk at Funchal’s new marina. We appreciate how easy it is to locate, and the check-in process is straightforward, with a separate entrance that skips the lines. Once aboard the luxury catamaran, you’re greeted with a glass of sparkling wine—a classy start that sets the tone for the entire trip.

The boat itself is a standout. It’s described as spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating. This setup allows you to choose whether to soak up the sun or stay sheltered from the wind—ideal for all weather conditions.

The Journey Out to Sea

The first 45-minute leg of the trip is dedicated to sailing into the Atlantic, with the crew sharing stories and facts about the local marine environment. Guests consistently highlight the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. For instance, multiple reviews note how attentive and knowledgeable guides—like Nico, Geordi, and Luiz—kept everyone engaged with fascinating commentary about the wildlife and Madeira’s coast.

Many reviews mention the plentiful snacks and drinks provided throughout the voyage. The open bar features everything from local wines and beers to soft drinks and water, making it easy to toast the whales or wind down with a cocktail. The all-inclusive aspect is a major plus, especially since the crew actively keeps drinks topped off.

Marine Wildlife Encounters

The real highlight? The chance to see dolphins, whales, and even turtles in the wild. Reviewers frequently mention seeing pilot whales, pilot whales with calves, and even rare sightings like the Sun Fish or a seal. Some guests express surprise at how close the animals come to the boat—a testament to the crew’s respectful approach.

One guest describes their experience: “We saw pilot whales and a rare sighting of a Sun Fish. The crew kept us topped up with snacks and drinks throughout the voyage.” The guides also take the time to explain the behaviors and habitats of these creatures, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cabo Girão Stop: A Scenic and Fun Break

After roughly an hour of wildlife spotting, the boat pulls into a 30-minute stop at Cabo Girão, a stunning 586-meter seaside cliff. This stop offers a change of pace: you can jump into the crystal-clear waters for a swim, snorkel using provided gear, or simply take photos of the breathtaking scenery. Reviewers rave about the opportunity to cool off and enjoy the spectacular views.

A common theme in reviews is how well-organized and relaxing this part of the trip is. Guests appreciate the chance to enjoy local snacks and beverages, often including regional wines or cocktails, while soaking in the scenery or spotting marine life from the boat.

Returning to Funchal

After the stop, the return leg is a leisurely 30 to 45-minute sail back to the marina. Guests often comment on how the crew continues to be attentive, offering drinks and sharing additional insights about Madeira’s coast and marine life. The trip ends back at the starting point, with many guests feeling that three hours was the perfect length—just enough time to relax, see some marine creatures, and enjoy scenic views without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Small Group Vibe and Personal Service

One of the most frequent praises in reviews is the small group size. With room for only around 17 guests, this boat feels intimate compared to larger, more crowded options. This means better chances to see wildlife up close and more personalized interaction with guides. As one reviewer put it, “Limited numbers on a spacious boat meant the experience was much better than being on a bigger, more crowded ship.”

Expert Guides and Marine Knowledge

Guests consistently mention the guides’ expertise, noting how they share insightful facts about marine life, conservation, and Madeira’s coastline. Some reviews even specify the guides’ names, like Nico, Geordi, and Luiz, who are described as friendly, professional, and eager to answer questions. This knowledge enhances the experience, especially when spotting whales or explaining animal behaviors.

Food, Drinks, and Snacking

The all-inclusive drinks—ranging from local wines and beers to soft drinks—are a clear highlight. Reviewers love the variety and quality, with some mentioning the local Madeira wine as a particular favorite. Snacks are described as tasty and plentiful, providing a satisfying complement to the wildlife viewing.

Scenic Stops and Water Activities

The Cabo Girão stop is a major draw. The cliff’s imposing height makes for dramatic photos, and the opportunity to swim or snorkel in pristine waters is appreciated—though weather conditions can sometimes affect swimming, as noted by a reviewer who mentioned it was too wavy to dive in that day.

Price and Value

At around $90 per person, this tour offers a lot—luxury amenities, marine viewing, scenic stop, and all drinks and snacks included. Many reviews highlight that the experience feels like excellent value, especially considering the spacious boat, professional guides, and personalized service.

Practical Details and Tips

• Check availability for your preferred times, as tour start times vary.
• The duration is approximately 3 hours, which is manageable for most travelers but still packed with activities.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan to meet at the marina.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with mobility considerations.
• Younger children over 3 years are welcome, but parents should consider the boat’s size and activity levels.
• Dress for the weather: layers, sun protection, and swimwear are recommended.
• Remember that wildlife sightings are unpredictable—while reviews show high success rates, no one can guarantee sightings.

Summary of the Experience

This luxury whale and dolphin watching tour offers a balance of comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty. You’ll get a chance to spot some of Madeira’s most iconic marine animals—dolphins, pilot whales, and more—in an environment that prioritizes respectful wildlife viewing. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make the experience more personal, and the all-inclusive drinks and snacks ensure you stay refreshed and satisfied.

The highlight for many is the stop at Cabo Girão, where stunning cliff views and the opportunity to swim in clear waters add an extra layer of enjoyment. The friendly crew, especially guides like Nico and Luiz, are frequently praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm.

While the trip’s shorter duration might not satisfy those seeking in-depth marine safaris, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a concise, high-quality experience that combines wildlife, scenery, and luxury service.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group excursions, high-end amenities, and informative guides. If you’re eager to see dolphins and whales without being on a crowded boat, this tour will appeal. It’s also well-suited for families, couples, or groups wanting a relaxed yet engaging day at sea. The inclusive drinks and scenic stop make it a great choice for those wanting both wildlife encounters and some time to unwind in style.

However, if your main goal is to guarantee specific wildlife sightings or longer marine excursions, you might want to explore additional options. But for a balanced, well-organized, and enjoyable introduction to Madeira’s marine life, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is there hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this tour meets at the VipDolphins kiosk at the Funchal marina. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, with start times varying depending on availability.

Can I see whales and dolphins on this trip?
Yes, the reviews and operator’s description indicate frequent sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and even some rare species like seals and Sun Fish.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 years old are welcome. However, consider the boat’s size and that it is a relaxing, scenic trip rather than an action-packed adventure.

Is alcohol included?
Absolutely. The open bar features a range of drinks, including local wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks—all included in the price.

Are snorkels and goggles provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available free of charge, making it easy to take a quick dip during the Cabo Girão stop.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing—layers, hats, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Will I see marine life every trip?
While sightings are common and many guests report successful encounters, marine wildlife is unpredictable. The guides do their best to find the animals, but no guarantee can be made.

How many people are on the boat?
The vessel is designed for small groups, with about 17 guests maximum, ensuring more personalized attention and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility considerations.

To sum it up, this All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and highly rated way to experience Madeira’s marine life. It combines scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and luxury amenities in a package that many reviewers describe as excellent value. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a couple seeking a memorable outing, or a family looking for a fun day at sea, this tour provides a respectful and enjoyable glimpse into Madeira’s oceanic wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby