Wines Tasting Experience and Skywalk with Dolphin Watching

If you’re looking for an experience that combines stunning scenery, local flavors, and a touch of adventure, this full-day tour in Funchal might just be your perfect match. Offered by True Spirit, it promises an accessible, well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s highlights—from vineyards and sea cliffs to the chance to spot playful dolphins. With a reputation for quality and a 5.0 rating from dozens of travelers, it’s clear this tour appeals to those wanting a memorable taste of the island’s natural beauty and culture.

What really makes this trip stand out is the variety packed into just eight hours. You’ll enjoy a scenic 4×4 ride, learn about Portuguese winemaking traditions, marvel at Europe’s highest sea cliff, and finish with a boat tour hunting for dolphins. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides are also big pluses, ensuring you feel both well-informed and well cared for during your adventure.

But a quick heads-up: the boat trip may not deliver marine life sightings every day, which could be a disappointment for some. Still, the overall experience offers fantastic value for the price, especially given the personalized attention and variety of highlights. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a little bit of everything—views, culture, nature, and fun—all bundled into one day.

Key Points

• Diverse Highlights: Combines wine tasting, scenic skywalk, and dolphin watching for a well-rounded day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Rui and John add context, humor, and local insights.
• Scenic Stops: Includes iconic sites such as Girao Cape, São Vicente Caves, and Miradouro São Sebastião.
• Value for Money: At just around $125, it delivers a mix of experiences, great views, and personalized service with a small group.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hassle-free pickup from Funchal hotels and port, with onboard Wi-Fi to stay connected.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to local vineyards and a chance to learn about Portuguese winemaking traditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off at 9:00 am with a pick-up from your Funchal accommodation or port, setting the stage for a day filled with natural beauty and local flavor. The first stop is the Miradouro de São Sebastião, a vantage point offering sweeping views surrounded by lush vegetation. Expect plenty of photo opportunities here, especially with the mountainous backdrop framing the coast. Reviewers mention that the scenery is truly spectacular, and the high mountains lend a dramatic feel to the landscape.

Next, the group heads to the São Vicente Caves, where the off-road journey itself is a highlight—many travelers appreciate the fun of the drive and the breathtaking views of São Vicente, Paul Da Serra, and Porto Moniz along the way. Here, you’ll visit some of the island’s most important vineyards, giving you a glimpse into Madeira’s rich wine culture. The guide’s commentary is appreciated, with reviews praising guides like Rui and John for their knowledge and humor, making the vineyard visit both educational and enjoyable.

The third stop is Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff at 589 meters. Although the entrance fee (around €3) is not included, standing at the edge offers a thrill and some of the most iconic views Madeira has to offer. During the summer months, there’s even an option to swim below the cliff—a bonus if the weather is warm.

The Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour

The visit to a local vineyard stands out as a true highlight, especially for wine lovers. The guide explains Portuguese winemaking traditions and guides you through tastings, which reviewers consistently praise for their quality and authenticity. One reviewer, Vija, mentioned that Leticia, the vineyard guide, was very informative, enriching the experience. The wine tasting isn’t just about sipping; it’s a deep dive into Madeira’s unique wine styles, making it a true cultural exchange.

Skywalk and Coastal Views

Girao Cape offers breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, and many travelers find themselves captivated by the scale and beauty of this natural marvel. Photos taken from the skywalk are a common highlight. The tour description notes that in summer, there’s the added fun of swimming below the cliff if conditions permit—an unexpected adventure for those wanting a more active experience.

Dolphin Watching: A Mixed Bag

The boat trip to spot dolphins is scheduled from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. While many reviewers like John and Rui found the guides informative and the cruise enjoyable, the dolphin watching experience can be hit or miss. One reviewer, Ellen, mentioned that their trip was somewhat disappointing because there was no marine life to see, and the lack of commentary meant a less engaging experience. Still, the boat ride itself offers a relaxing break and the chance to see Madeira’s coastline from a different perspective.

Practical Details

The tour’s price of $124.96 per person is quite reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into the day. The group size is capped at 15, which allows for personalized attention and better interaction with guides. Transportation is in a comfortable 4×4, perfect for off-road sections and rougher terrain. The inclusion of Wi-Fi onboard means you can share your photos or jot down notes as you go.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing: Alison mentioned the prompt pickup, friendly guide, and a fun off-road experience en route to the vineyards. LUC_H called the tour the highlight of their trip, emphasizing the guide John’s exceptional knowledge. Vija enjoyed the wine tasting and the engaging explanations from Leticia. Even those who found the dolphin watching less spectacular still appreciated the overall value and variety of the tour.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Friendly, professional guides with good humor and local insights
– Stunning panoramic views at Girao Cape and Miradouro São Sebastião
– Authentic wine tasting experience with knowledgeable vineyard staff
– Comfortably paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without rushing
– Compact group size for a more intimate experience

Cons:
– The dolphin watching may not guarantee sightings, which could disappoint some
– Entry to Cabo Girao is extra (€3) if you wish to go to the viewpoint
– The boat trip’s commentary is minimal, so marine life sightings aren’t assured

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s natural beauty, history, and flavors. It suits those who appreciate small group tours, personalized guides, and a mix of land and sea adventures. If you love scenic vistas, local wine, and a bit of adrenaline from off-road driving, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for an authentic glimpse of Madeira.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup from Funchal’s central area and port, making it convenient without extra fuss.

How long does the entire tour last?
The Jeep tour starts at 9:00 am and ends around 1:30 pm at Funchal’s harbor. The dolphin watching boat trip then runs from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, making for a full day of exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended. If you want to swim below Cabo Girao, bring swimwear and a towel (available in summer).

Are there any additional costs?
The main extra is the entrance fee to Cabo Girao (€3). Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can everyone participate?
Most travelers can take part, with a maximum group size of 15, and the tour is generally suitable for all ages.

What if I don’t see dolphins?
While the boat trip aims to spot marine life, sightings are not guaranteed. Even without marine animals, the boat ride offers a relaxing, scenic break.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a captivating blend of Madeira’s best features—stunning views, local wine, scenic drives, and the chance to see dolphins if luck is on your side. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the included Wi-Fi keeps you connected.

If you’re seeking a balanced, authentic snapshot of Madeira in a single day—covering nature, culture, and adventure—this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of guided insights and free time to soak up the sights at your own pace.

For anyone with a sense of curiosity and a love of scenic, cultural, and marine experiences, this tour ticks all the boxes without breaking the bank. Just remember, marine life sightings depend on the day, but the views and local flavor are guaranteed to impress.

Enjoy your Madeira adventure!