4.9 (1.3 k) · Funchal · By On Tales Lda Free cancellation
Embark on a memorable journey to witness the incredible marine life of Madeira Island's southwest coast. Aboard a luxurious and comfortable motor yacht, you'll have the chance to encounter dolphins, whales, turtles, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Experience the thrill of being close to wild marine animals as they navigate the open seas. This tour offers a unique perspective of the Atlantic Ocean, allowing you to explore the island from its waters while enjoying a premium experience.
✓ Bottled water✓ Cabin access✓ Blankets✓ Snorkel equipment (masks, fins, and tubes)✓ Access to toilet facilities✓ Hair and body towels✓ Shower facilities available after swimming✓ Light refreshments (water, fruit juice, soft drinks, beer)✕ Transportation to and from the activity location.✕ Snacks or food.1 On Tales
Arrive at our meeting point in Marina de Calheta 15 minutes prior to departure.
We are located at the end of the harbor, adjacent to the blue building.
If you require assistance, please contact us.
There is an underground parking facility available just after the tennis courts.
From the elevator on the ground floor, On Tales is the first shop on the marina.
Our team will provide a detailed presentation of the activity and answer any questions you may have.
· 10 min
2 Porto de Recreio da Calheta
Your captain will greet you at Porto de Recreio da Calheta and escort you to the yacht.
A brief safety orientation will be conducted before departure.
· 10 min · Admission included
3 Madeira Islands
Depart from the harbor with two professional crew members on a spacious and comfortable yacht.
Guided by a land-based spotter, we will cruise along the coast to locate and observe marine life in its natural environment.
Enjoy sightseeing and discover Madeira Island from a unique vantage point.
This expedition focuses on sustainable and expert-led encounters that prioritize the well-being of marine animals, including spotting migratory dolphins and whales.
· 2 h
4 Madeira Islands
Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters at a secluded spot, chosen for optimal sea conditions.
Jump from the boat and explore the underwater world.
We provide all necessary equipment, including soft towels, masks, fins, and snorkels.
· 10 min
5 Madeira Islands
Relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery while our crew captures memorable moments of your excursion.
Digital photos of your journey will be sent to you by our land-based team after the trip.
· Non-stop passage
6 Madeira Islands
Enjoy complimentary drinks, including water, fruit juice, soft drinks, and beer, served by our crew throughout the tour.
· Non-stop passage
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
The On Tales Store is situated at the end of Marina da Calheta, next to the blue building, where our team will welcome you and guide you to the yacht.
Please note: Calheta is on the south coast, approximately a 40-minute drive west of Funchal.
The On Tales Store is situated at the end of Marina da Calheta, next to the blue building, where our team will welcome you and guide you to the yacht.
Please note: Calheta is on the south coast, approximately a 40-minute drive west of Funchal.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Confirmation will be provided either before the tour or within 48 hours of booking. This tour is subject to favorable maritime conditions. In case of cancellation due to weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. This is a family-friendly activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Availability is subject to booking. Sightings of wildlife cannot be guaranteed. Please be aware that the 6/6:30 PM or 7/7:30 PM (19:00/19:30) departure is for a Sunset, Snorkeling, and Sparkling Wine experience, and does not include whale watching. Guests are expected to exercise reasonable care for their own safety when boarding, disembarking, and while on the yacht. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira
Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure. Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. Listen carefully to the safety briefing from the captain. Respect the marine wildlife and maintain a safe distance. The sunset tour option does not include whale watching. A full refund is available for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 41625P3
Activity offered by On Tales Lda via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature enthusiasts Families Couples Wildlife lovers Observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Cruise along Madeira's stunning coastline. Enjoy swimming in clear Atlantic waters. Professional crew and comfortable yacht. Complimentary refreshments and snacks. Expert-guided ethical wildlife encounters.
Population 112,290 (2023)
Currency euro
Official language Portuguese
Driving on the right
Power plugs C, F · 230 V
Emergency number 112
Capital city Lisbon Average temperatures 17° Jan 16° Feb 16° Mar 17° Apr 18° May 20° Jun 22° Jul 23° Aug 23° Sept 21° Oct 19° Nov 18° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the tour? + The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What should I bring for the tour? + It is recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Snorkel equipment is provided.
Can I bring food and drinks? + Light refreshments are included. Guests are advised that snacks and food are not included in the tour package.
What happens if the weather is bad? + The tour is subject to favorable maritime conditions. If canceled due to weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Is it guaranteed that we will see whales and dolphins? + Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but the crew will make every effort to find them.
What is the difference between the standard tour and the sunset tour? + The sunset tour (6/6:30 PM or 7/7:30 PM departure) focuses on sunset views, snorkeling, and sparkling wine, and does not include whale watching.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Amazing
ma_kaz2016, October 2026
Amazing trip, nice weather and atmosphere. Spotted dolphins which made trip even better.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Beautiful
mariecharlottek2024, October 2026
A great experience, very exciting!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great Experience
Explore646798, October 2026
Fantastic experience! We saw a pod of dolphins and a pod of pilot whales. We didn't have time to snorkel because it took a while to reach the whales further out in the deep, but that's just a matter of luck. We went with our two-year-old daughter, and the crew was absolutely amazing with her
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great
K9605ZSpieterv, October 2026
Really friendly and knowledgeable guides! We got to see pilot whales and common bottlenose dolphins
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
1 a tour with a few whales in the distance
chicav2024, September 2026
Nice boat tour in great weather.
The boat is great. With 12 passengers, it really is a first-class tour. It is nice that the humpback whales were treated with consideration. We did see a few from a long distance away. You don't have to "speed" out there with a speedboat, as others do there.
All the tour operator's information is correct and it was fun. Even swimming in the Atlantic was refreshing. Experienced a lot in 2.5 hours. Perhaps a bit expensive, but it makes up for it with a great boat and very good service from reception to departure, for sure!
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