VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

Whales and champagne, on one short cruise. This small-group catamaran outing leaves from the Marina of Funchal and gives you a real shot at dolphins and whales without the usual crowded-boat feeling. Expect a modern, comfy ride, plus onboard treats that turn a wildlife search into a proper afternoon.

I especially loved the steady flow of drinks and snacks, from coffee or tea to alcoholic beverages, with blankets and towels ready when you jump in. The crew also runs the show with a friendly touch, so even waiting time out at sea feels comfortable.

One thing to think about: the sailing can be a bit rough at times (Madeira waters do not always play nice), and after the swim the ladder back up can feel awkward if you are not used to it. If you get seasick easily, plan ahead.

Key things that make VipDolphins special

• Up to 17 travelers means more space, less crowd noise, and easier views from the boat
• Full-service food and drinks on board, including snacks, coffee or tea, and alcoholic options
• Cabo Girão swim stop with snorkeling gear, plus towels and blankets waiting for you afterward
• A friendly, attentive crew who keep you informed while you search for whales and dolphins
• Bathrooms on board for a more relaxed, practical trip

Price and what you really get for $95.53

At $95.53 per person, this is not the cheapest way to see whales near Madeira. But you are paying for more than a seat on a boat.

You get the essentials that usually cost extra or get skimmed in other tours: drinks (including alcoholic beverages), snacks, bottled water, coffee or tea, soda, plus snorkeling equipment. On top of that, there is a swim break at a scenic spot near Cabo Girão with towels and blankets provided. When you price those items individually, the overall value starts to make sense.

Also, the max group size is 17. That matters. I have been on big excursions where you end up pressed against railings with no good sightlines. Here, the smaller headcount helps you move around and actually enjoy the experience, not just survive it.

Leaving Funchal: marina check-in and a smooth start

The meeting point is Praça do Povo, 9000-900 Funchal, Portugal, at the VipDolphins Catamaran Whale Watching location. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, so you do not have to think about separate drop-offs.

You should plan to get there on your own. Pick-ups are not included, though the start area is near public transportation. If you are staying in Funchal, it is usually a straightforward plan to arrive on foot or by local bus.

You will get confirmation at booking time, and the ticket is mobile. That keeps things simple. Bring your phone and expect a quick check-in, not a long waiting room.

On the water: how the whale and dolphin search feels on a small catamaran

The sailing portion is the main attraction, and it is built around a simple idea: go out from the marina to look for dolphins and whales. The exact sightings vary, because the ocean decides. But the process is well managed.

The most consistent praise is about how quickly the crew identifies marine life when it appears and how well they explain what you are seeing. People talk about getting real answers from the team, not vague explanations. You might hear guidance from staff like Sheila, Liv, Chico, Maggie, Francisco, Nico, or Nick, depending on who is working that day. The names differ, but the vibe stays the same: friendly, attentive, and ready to help you spot movement and surfacing.

One detail I think you will appreciate: there is time to be near wildlife, but it is limited. In one case, it was described as about 10 minutes near dolphins and whales, tied to Portuguese regulations. That sounds short until you remember what the goal is, less crowding and more respect for the animals.

A quick reality check on seas

Even on days that look calm on land, the ride can still have swell. Several people recommend taking anti-sea-sickness measures if you are even mildly sensitive. This is not a “guaranteed smooth ride” type of trip.

If you want the best comfort, dress for motion. Bring layers and something to handle mist. When the boat rocks, warmth and dry clothes help more than you think.

Stop at Cabo Girão: the swim break that turns a cruise into a memory

After the wildlife search, the plan includes a swim and snorkeling break. The description is clear: you go to the crystal-clear waters at the bottom of Cabo Girão.

This stop is where the “luxury” part becomes physical. The boat provides snorkeling equipment, and you also get the basics to make swimming easier, including towels and blankets. People mention changing space and onboard comfort, which matters because you do not want to scramble for a place to get warm after you get out of the water.

What this is really good for

Not everyone wants to swim, but even if you stay on board or just dip in, Cabo Girão is worth it. The area is scenic, and being in the water gives you a different view of the cliffs and coast line than any photo from the deck.

The only real drawback is the return climb. The ladder back onto the catamaran can be a little difficult for some people. If you have mobility concerns or you are not a confident swimmer, use extra caution, and hold on firmly. Let the crew help if needed.

Snorkeling expectations

Snorkeling gear is included, but you should still think of this as a fun break rather than a guided dive expedition. You will likely do casual snorkeling while you enjoy the setting.

What’s included on board, and what that means for your wallet

Here is what the tour includes, and why it matters for you:

• Snacks and biscuits: This is not just a cookie-and-water situation. People describe the snacks as varied and delicious, more like a satisfying set of bites than a token offering.
• Coffee and/or tea: Nice for the “pick me up” moment, especially if you catch morning chill or wind on the way out.
• Alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, bottled water: The vibe becomes social. Expect options like wine and other drinks, since people mention a variety of choices.
• Blankets and towels: This is key for comfort during and after the swim break. It means you do not need to bring your own towel or scramble for warmth.
• Use of snorkeling equipment: If you have not packed your own gear, you are covered.

What is not included is pick-up service. So you may need to budget a bit of time to get yourself to Praça do Povo before departure.

Group size and comfort: why the boat matters as much as the sightings

The tour caps at a maximum of 17 travelers. That number shows up in the way people talk about the boat experience: less crowding, room to move, and better seating choices.

One consistent theme is comfort. People mention bathrooms, including two WCs, plus changing areas and overall clean facilities. On a 3-hour outing, those details make a big difference, especially when you are planning around the swim stop.

Boat comfort also affects wildlife spotting. When you are not wedged in, you can switch sides, find a better angle, and stay relaxed enough to notice surfacing. A small group helps you do that.

The crew factor: friendly help and practical answers

The crew is a huge part of why the rating is so high. People single out staff members like Sheila and Liv for being especially attentive, and also mention captains such as Nico, Francisco, and Maggie by name.

The important part is what they do: they keep you informed while you search, and they are quick to explain what you are seeing when dolphins or whales surface. That kind of running commentary can turn a distant sighting into something you understand.

There is also a safety and support element. After swimming, one review notes the captain or crew helped guests back on board quickly. That kind of assistance is not guaranteed on every tour, and it is worth paying attention to if you plan to swim.

Who this tour suits best (and who should rethink)

This tour is a good match if you want:

• A luxury feel with drinks and snacks included
• A smaller group for calmer boat time
• A mix of wildlife spotting and a true water break at Cabo Girão
• Staff who actively help you see and understand marine life

It is less ideal if:

• You get seasick easily and are not willing to prepare
• You want a very easy swim ladder without any challenge
• You expect a guaranteed whale sighting every time

Also, children under 3 years old are not allowed. If you are traveling with young kids, check age requirements before booking.

Timing: why the afternoon often works well in Madeira

The activity runs about 3 hours. That length is practical. It is long enough to reach good water, hunt for dolphins and whales, and still fit in a swim stop.

For planning, I would treat this as a “main event” afternoon. The boat ride and snorkeling break can be enough activity for the day, so you do not need to stack too many other plans right after.

If you are comparing options, the combination here is the value: wildlife spotting plus Cabo Girão water time, with food and drinks onboard.

Should you book VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching?

If your goal is a comfort-first whale and dolphin cruise with included drinks, snacks, and a real swim break, I think this is an easy yes.

Book it if you like the idea of a small group, you want a modern catamaran experience, and you are excited to spend time at Cabo Girão in the water with towels and snorkeling gear provided. The crew support and the practical onboard setup also make it feel well thought out.

I would hesitate only if you know you struggle with choppy water or if you strongly dislike ladders or any sort of stepping back onto a boat after swimming. In that case, plan for seasickness help and take extra care during the return.

FAQ

How long is VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching in Funchal?

The tour lasts about 3 hours.

How much does it cost?

It costs $95.53 per person.

What’s the meeting point?

Meet at Praça do Povo, 9000-900 Funchal, Portugal. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Is swimming and snorkeling included?

Yes. The tour includes a swimming break and the use of snorkeling equipment, along with towels and blankets.

What food and drinks are included?

The tour includes snacks (snacks and biscuits), coffee and/or tea, alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, and bottled water.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience requires good weather, and if it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered another date or a full refund.