Funchal:Hop-on Hop-off Bus & Whale & Dolphin boat Excursion

Discovering Madeira: A Combined Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Whale & Dolphin Boat Excursion

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and want to see the island’s highlights from land and sea, this combined tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and marine adventure. Offering two days of flexible exploration, it covers the charming streets of Funchal, the vibrant town of Câmara de Lobos, and the thrill of spotting dolphins and whales from a catamaran.

One of the standout features? The hop-on hop-off bus makes it easy to explore at your own pace, while the whale and dolphin watching from a catamaran promises memorable wildlife encounters. Plus, the included visits to local artisans and wine tastings add a touch of authentic Madeira flair.

A potential consideration? The check-in location for the bus has been described as somewhat inconvenient, requiring extra walking or backtracking. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with luggage or prefer smooth transitions.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of urban sightseeing, scenic vistas, and marine life, especially those who appreciate flexibility and want to maximize their time on the island. Families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a comprehensive, value-packed day will find this tour especially appealing.

Key Points

• Flexible Two-Day Validity: Your ticket covers 48 hours from the first use, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Land & Sea Combo: Experience Funchal’s streets and Câmara de Lobos by bus, then venture onto the Atlantic with a catamaran whale & dolphin tour.
• Authentic Experiences Included: Enjoy free Madeira wine tasting, visit a local embroidery factory, and get discounts on various attractions.
• Wildlife Watching: Madeiras waters are home to over 20 cetacean species, making whale & dolphin spotting a highlight.
• Convenient Optional Extras: Entrance to Bordal Embroideries Factory and Madeira Wine Museum are free, but note that hotel transfers are not included.
• Practical Tips: The check-in point for the bus is at Avenida do Mar near the Marina; the catamaran departs from VMT City Pier.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Land Tour: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Through Funchal and Câmara de Lobos

The bus tour begins at Avenida do Mar, right by the lively marina area, making it easy to access. You can hop on every 30 minutes in the morning, or every 45 minutes after lunch, giving you flexibility to customize your sightseeing. The route covers many highlights, including the Funchal City Gates, the Old Town with its charming streets, the Farmer’s Market, and the impressive Pico dos Barcelos Viewpoint.

What makes this option attractive is the ability to hop off at any stop that piques your interest—whether it’s to explore the Funchal Cathedral, stroll through the Quinta Magnólia Gardens, or snap photos at the Funchal Bay Viewpoint. The stops are well-placed to maximize your time and experience, especially for those with limited days or who prefer a relaxed pace.

Reviewers have noted some logistical quirks, such as the check-in location being inconvenient — requiring travelers to double back or navigate around. One traveler described the check-in process as “terrible,” with the need to go back and forth multiple times to get their voucher sorted. This can be frustrating, so plan accordingly, especially if arriving with luggage or on a tight schedule.

Câmara de Lobos and Coastal Views

The bus also takes you to Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village that inspired Winston Churchill’s paintings. It’s a colorful spot with lively boat-filled harbor scenes, perfect for a quick stroll or a coffee break. The route’s frequent stops allow you to soak in the vibrant landscapes, with colorful houses and lush greenery in the background.

The Marine Adventure: Whale & Dolphin Watching from a Catamaran

After exploring land, the tour continues with a catamaran whale & dolphin watching trip from VMT City Pier. Check-in for this begins about 30 minutes before departure, and the boat ride promises a chance to see Madeira’s famed marine wildlife.

The waters around Madeira are home to over 20 cetacean species, including dolphins, whales, and sometimes even turtles and sea birds. The boat trip offers a different perspective—crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastline, and the chance to see playful dolphins swimming alongside the vessel.

Travelers have described this experience as “unforgettable,” noting the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat. The experience isn’t just about wildlife; the vistas of the coastline, with rocks that look like lacework, provide incredible photo opportunities.

Additional Highlights and Practical Details

• Swimming and Snorkeling Stop: Fajã do Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offers an ideal spot for a quick swim or snorkeling. The water is typically calm, and the scenery is breathtaking.
• Wine Tasting: Included in the package is a visit to Old Blandy’s Wine Lodge, where you can sample Madeira’s famous fortified wine. Reviewers mention that the tasting is “free” and that there’s a 10% discount on shopping, adding value.
• Visit to Bordal Embroideries Factory: This free entry allows you to explore Madeira’s renowned embroidery tradition, with a 10% shopping discount. It’s a charming stop for those interested in local crafts.

The Logistics and Value

The combined nature of this tour offers good value for money. With the ticket valid for 48 hours, you can spread out your sightseeing and marine adventure over two days, making it ideal for visitors with limited time. The inclusions—wine tasting, embroidery factory, dolphin & whale watching—add layers of authentic experiences that enhance your understanding of Madeira’s culture and natural beauty.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, consider the convenience of having multiple activities bundled together, saving you both time and money. The tour also offers discounts on museums and monuments, which can further offset costs if you decide to explore more independently.

What to Keep in Mind

• Check-in Location: Be prepared for a bit of walking or navigating to the Avenida do Mar. Some travelers have found this challenging, so arriving early is wise.
• Departure Points: The bus and catamaran depart from different locations—plan your schedule accordingly.
• Weather Considerations: The marine activity depends on weather conditions; calm seas are ideal for whale watching, so be flexible if weather isn’t perfect.
• Duration & Group Size: The bus runs frequently, and the boat trip’s duration isn’t specified, but you should allocate about 2-3 hours for the boat tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive Madeira experience without the hassle of planning multiple activities separately. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate flexibility—thanks to the hop-on hop-off format—and for wildlife enthusiasts eager to spot dolphins and whales.

Families will find this a good option, as it blends educational, scenic, and fun elements. Couples seeking a romantic way to explore the coast and enjoy marine wildlife will also appreciate the mix of land and sea adventures.

If you prefer a very structured, guided tour with fixed schedules, this might feel a little too loose. However, for those who enjoy discovering at their own pace and combining different experiences in one ticket, this is a worthwhile option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The tour begins at the designated meeting points, so travelers need to make their way there independently.

What is the meeting point for the bus?
The bus departs from Avenida do Mar, near the Marina. This is where you exchange your voucher and start your land exploration.

Where does the catamaran depart from?
The whale & dolphin boat departs from VMT City Pier, specifically at the kiosk in front of Stop 2 of the bus route.

How long does each activity last?
The bus tour runs with frequent stops from 9 AM to 5 PM, with a 30-minute interval in the morning and 45-minute intervals in the afternoon. The boat trip’s length isn’t specified but typically allows for wildlife spotting and sightseeing, lasting a couple of hours.

Are there discounts available?
Yes, you get a 10% discount on shopping at Old Blandy’s Wine Lodge and Bordal Embroideries Factory. Plus, discounts are available on tickets to other monuments and museums with your ticket.

Can I cancel?
Yes, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially the wildlife boat trip, which tends to be a hit with kids. Just ensure they’re comfortable with boat rides and outdoor exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and towel for the snorkeling stop, sunscreen, hat, and good footwear for walking and exploring. It’s also wise to carry a water bottle and camera for capturing the views.

In essence, this combined tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Madeira’s scenic beauty and marine life. With a good balance of land and sea activities, flexibility, and local touches like wine tasting and embroidery visits, it’s a great way to make the most of your time on the island—especially if you’re after authentic experiences with a splash of adventure.