With its spectacular coastal scenery and crystal-clear waters, Madeira is an ideal destination for boat excursions. The island is evenone of Europe’s top destinations for dolphin and whale watching. Whether you want to observe marine life, admire breathtaking panoramas or simply enjoy a moment of relaxation at sea, you’ll find the excursion that’s right for you. In this article, we present the best boat trips in Madeira, to take full advantage of the beauty of the Atlantic and the treasures of the Flower Island.
Here’s our selection of the best boat trips in Madeira, with useful tips in pictures!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
1. Dolphin and whale watching tours
What you will see
Imagine sailing off the coast of Madeira when suddenly a pod of dolphins appears from the waves! How can you not marvel at the beauty of this aquatic ballet and rediscover your inner child? Madeira is one of Europe’s top destinations for whale watching. From leisurely catamaran excursions to more dynamic speedboat trips, there’s a wide range of options for exploring the Atlantic Ocean.
Some ideas for excursions
Dolphin-watching aboard an eco-friendly catamaran with swimming under Cabo Girão:
Our favorite! The activity lasts about 3 hours. We had plenty of time to enjoy the island’s magnificent coastal scenery. The catamaran is equipped with hybrid electric motors, more respectful of aquatic fauna. It’s a technology that’s close to our hearts! – See prices, photos and availability.
Meet the cetaceans by speedboat. This option is perfect for speed and adrenaline lovers. Since the zodiac allows you to cover great distances quickly, in theory you increase your chances of seeing dolphins and whales. – See prices, photos and availability.
Inflatable boat with opportunities to swim with dolphins. This small-group excursion allows you to observe dolphins and whales more intimately than on larger excursions. If conditions are right, you’ll enjoy a unique experience as you swim up close to the cetaceans. – See prices, photos and availability.
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
2. Sunset boat trips
What you will see
Looking for a unique adventure? We recommend a sunset cruise! Madeira offers magnificent sunset views. As well as breathtaking scenery, you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins or whales in their natural environment. We were dazzled by the island’s wild, sun-kissed coastline.
Some ideas for excursions
Sunset tour of the island’s landscapes and environment on a catamaran. Watch the landscape and ocean change color for 3 hours until sunset. An unforgettable experience, during which you may even catch a glimpse of cetaceans. – See prices, photos and availability.
Board a traditional Madeiran boat to watch the sunset. You’ll have the chance to observe the high cliffs of Cap Girão and dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Pearl of the Atlantic. – See prices, photos and availability.
Set sail in a sailboat at sunset, in search of whales and dolphins. On this excursion around Cabo Girão, you can watch cetaceans, swim in the open sea and enjoy a drink as the sun sets. – See prices, photos and availability.
Treat yourself to a dream evening with a sunset dinner cruise. You can enjoy a buffet of traditional dishes and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Calhau da Lapa. – See prices, photos and availability.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
3. Explore Madeira’s most beautiful seabed (diving and snorkeling)
What you will see
Diving in Madeira is full of surprises! You can discover a multitude of colorful fish, sea turtles and perhaps even manta rays and dolphins in their natural habitat. The island’s waters offer ideal conditions for safe diving. This experience is also an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of this fragile ecosystem. By observing marine species in their natural environment, you’ll learn just how important it is to protect the oceans.
Some ideas for excursions
Go snorkeling in the Garajau marine reserve! This excursion is an opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters of the Garajau nature reserve during a guided snorkeling session. You can observe Madeira’s marine life in its natural habitat and enjoy the coastal scenery from the boat. – See prices, photos and availability
Take a kayak trip to the Garajau reserve for some snorkeling. A sportier alternative to classic boat trips, perfect for those who want to work off some energy after enjoying Madeira’s gastronomy. The perfect opportunity to discover the island’s marine life in an environmentally-friendly way. – See prices, photos and availability.
4. Discover the Desertas Islands
What you will see
To the east of Madeira, the Desertas Islands are an archipelago of 3 islands that have never been colonized.
Today, it’s a protected reserve where nature reigns supreme. Far from the hustle and bustle of tourism, we enjoyed discovering this haven of peace and breathtaking scenery. You’ll find black sandy beaches and breathtaking cliffs, all in an unspoilt setting. The archipelago is home to some of the world’s most unique flora and fauna.
Please note that the round trip from Madeira to the Desertas Islands takes around 6 hours. If you don’t like sailing, this type of excursion may be best avoided.
Some ideas for excursions
Take a full-day catamaran cruise to discover the Desertas Islands. You can visit Madeira’s nature reserve and swim on one of the archipelago’s volcanic beaches. – See prices, photos and availability.
Embark on a magnificent wooden boat bound for the Desertas Islands. Along the way, you’ll take in the beautiful coastal scenery and maybe even spot some cetaceans. Once ashore, you can discover one of the 3 islands. – See prices, photos and availability.
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- + 120 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 260 photos to help you choose
5. Boat trips to observe the island’s landscapes from the sea
What you will see
We recommend a boat trip around Madeira Island. It’s an experience that will allow you to discover this magnificent territory from a different angle. Sailing along the coast, you’ll have the opportunity to admire spectacular scenery where sheer cliffs meet the Atlantic. You’ll be able to see iconic sites such as Cristo Rei and the wild bays of Machico and Caniçal, for example. Some tours even offer swimming!
Some ideas for excursions
Visit Madeira’s volcanic tail (Ponta de São Lourenço) from the sea. During this excursion, you’ll have the chance to swim and see the island’s oldest lighthouse. – See prices, photos and availability.
Embark on a magnificent wooden boat to discover Madeira’s East Coast for 5 hours. You’ll discover green hills bordering the sea and the jewels of this part of the island, such as the Ponta di Garajau or the statue of Cristo Rei, ending with the famous Ponta de São Lourenço. – See prices, photos and availability.
Sail aboard a traditional Madeiran boat to discover the island’s natural beauty. You can swim in the protected area of Cabo Girao. – See prices, photos and availability.
Enjoy an extraordinary epic aboard a replica of Christopher Columbus’ original ship: the Santa Maria! Put yourself in the shoes of the 15th-century navigators who discovered Madeira. You can swim and spot cetaceans. – See prices, photos and availability.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
6. Catamaran excursions
What you will see
Catamaran sailing in Madeira offers a peaceful experience that will remain etched in your travel memories. We loved discovering the steep coastline from the sea, and the breathtaking views of the island’s green cliffs and rock formations. The tranquility of the waters allows you to relax while enjoying the chance toobserve dolphins and sometimes even whales.
Some ideas for excursions
Enjoy a 3-hour cruise aboard a luxury Catamaran with open bar and VIP service. During the excursion, you can observe dolphins and whales and swim at the bottom of the island’s cliffs. – See prices, photos and availability.
Watch the sun set aboard a catamaran and enjoy a swim in the silvery waters of the Atlantic. – See prices, photos and availability.
If you’re visiting Madeira over the festive season, you canenjoy the New Year’s fireworks aboard a catamaran, with champagne and Madeira wine included. A memorable experience! –See prices, photos and availability.
7. Take the ferry to Porto Santo
What you will see
For a different experience, we recommend a day trip to the neighboring island of Porto Santo. There is a ferry in the morning and a return ferry in the evening. The crossing takes 2h30. You’ll discover that Porto Santo is a very different island from Madeira. The mountains are lower and don’t block the clouds. As a result, the island is much drier. There are large sandy beaches, dunes, organ pipes and natural pools. We loved this day!
On the way to Porto Santo, you can appreciate the Madeira coast in the morning light: in the distance, we recognized Funchal, the Ponta do Garajau, the east coast and the Ponta de São Lourenço.
Practical information
Embarking for Porto Santo is also an opportunity to experience the ferry. There are bars and restaurants, a cinema, children’s play areas, etc. – – and much more. see prices, photos and availability.
Once there, you can book an organized excursion to discover the island of pirates and privateers. – See prices, photos and availability.
You can also rent a car to discover Porto Santo on your own. More information below:
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Porto Santo
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- The island is small and easy to drive.
- A car gives you plenty of freedom to explore every corner of Porto Santo
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to take a boat trip to Madeira?
The best time to take a boat trip in Madeira is generally from April to October. During these months, temperatures are warmer and sea conditions are often more favorable, allowing you to take full advantage of the coastal scenery and marine wildlife viewing. It’s also the ideal time to watch whales and dolphins, as these species migrate to the warmer waters around the island. Although sightings are possible all year round thanks to the presence of resident species, the summer months offer optimal visibility and calmer seas, making the experience even more enjoyable.
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What are the advantages of a boat tour over a land tour?
We believe that boat excursions in Madeira offer several advantages over land tours:
- First of all, they’ll let you admire spectacular coastal scenery that can’t be appreciated from land. Sailing along majestic cliffs such as those at Cabo Girão, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and wild bays accessible only by sea.
- Secondly, these outings offer unique opportunities to observe marine wildlife, including dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. These moments of interaction with nature will make your stay unforgettable.
- Finally, boat excursions often include activities such as swimming and snorkeling, and sometimes a meal on board.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
