Whale and dolphin watching tours in Madeira for families

Key Takeaways

• 3 Tour Types: Private yacht (small groups), luxury catamaran (all-inclusive), eco-catamaran (budget-friendly).

• Best For Families: Each tour suits different needs—comfort, space, or eco-conscious travel.

• Free Cancellation: All tours offer free cancellation 24 hours before.

• Wildlife Sightings: No guarantees, but crews work hard to find whales and dolphins.

• What’s Included: Snorkeling gear, drinks, expert guides, and safety briefings.

• Accessibility: Only luxury and eco tours are wheelchair-friendly.

• Age Limits: Private yacht allows all ages; luxury tour excludes kids under 3.

• Pro Tip: Morning tours have calmer seas for smoother sailing with kids.

Private Yacht Adventure for Small Families

If your family is tiny (like 6 people or fewer), the private yacht tour is like having a boat all to yourselves! You start in Calheta, where the crew gives a quick safety talk—don’t worry, it’s only 2 minutes. Then you’re off to find dolphins and whales. The boat has a bathroom and shady spots, which is great if your kids get tired of the sun.

One time, a family I know saw dolphins jumping right beside their boat! The kids screamed (happy screams!) and the crew handed out juice. You can swim or snorkel too—the water’s so clear, you might spot fishies. But remember, whales ain’t always nearby. The crew uses spotters on land to help find them, but sometimes you just see waves. Still, the crew makes it fun with stories about sea life.

Good stuff:

• Towels and snorkels included.

• Blankets if it’s chilly.

• Sparkling wine for adults (juice for kids).

Not so good:

• No wheelchairs on the yacht.

• Bigger adults (over 110 kg) need to ask first.

👉 Want your own boat? Book the private yacht tour here and make memories with just your crew!

Luxury Catamaran for Families Who Love Comfort

Imagine a giant boat with comfy seats, snacks, and unlimited drinks. That’s the luxury catamaran! It’s perfect if you hate crowds only 2-3 families onboard. You sail from Funchal, sip sparkling wine, and search for dolphins. The crew is super nice; they’ll even carry your bags!

My cousin’s kids loved the “secret stop” near Cabo Girão cliff. They swam while adults drank cocktails. The boat has toilets and shade, which is key with little ones. Plus, wheelchair users can join! But babies under 3 aren’t allowed safety rules.

Good stuff:

• All-inclusive snacks and drinks (even beer!).

• Guides explain whale facts in simple words.

• Hotel pickup saves time.

Not so good:

• Expensive (starts at $90 per person).

• No swimming if the waves are rough.

👉 Treat your family to VIP vibes! Grab your luxury catamaran tickets here and sail in style.

Eco-Friendly Catamaran for Nature-Loving Families

This boat is electric! That means it’s quiet, so dolphins don’t get scared. Perfect for families who care about the planet. You’ll sail from Funchal, and the crew teaches kids about “eco stuff” like clean oceans. My friend’s daughter got a sticker for naming three whale types!

The nets on deck let you lie down and watch the water. Once, a turtle swam right underneath! Bring a jacket though, it’s windy up there. Snorkeling gear is free, but food costs extra.

Good stuff:

• Hybrid engines = less pollution.

• Wheelchair-friendly toilets.

• Cheaper than luxury tours.

Not so good:

• No alcohol allowed (juice only).

• Big groups (up to 50 people).

👉 Go green and save! Snag eco-catamaran spots here and help protect the ocean.

Book with us and save!

Feature	Private Yacht	Luxury Catamaran	Eco Catamaran
Price	$$$ (Private charter)	$$$ ($90+/person)	$$ ($50-$70/person)
Group Size	Up to 6	Up to 12	Up to 50
Best For	Small families, privacy	Comfort, all-inclusive	Eco-conscious, budget

What to Pack for Your Tour

Sunscreen is a must—Madeira’s sun is strong! Also, bring swimsuits under your clothes. The boats have towels, but kids might want their own. A hat and sunglasses help too. Don’t forget motion sickness pills if your tummy gets wobbly on waves.

Pro tip: Pack dry clothes in a bag. You’ll get wet snorkeling!

Best Time to See Whales in Madeira

Whales love warm water, so May to September is best. But dolphins swim here all year! Mornings are calmer—less wind, smoother ride. I always book 9 AM tours. Avoid rainy days; tours get canceled.

What If You Don’t See Any Animals?

It happens! Crews can’t control nature. But good tours (like these three) offer a free second trip or refund. The eco-catamaran gives kids coloring books if the sea’s quiet.

FAQs

1. Can toddlers join whale tours?

   Yes on private yacht and eco-catamaran. Luxury tour says no under 3s.

2. Are life jackets provided?

   Yep, all boats have kid-sized life jackets.

3. How rough is the sea?

   Depends on weather. Summer = smoother. Crews check waves before sailing.

4. Can we feed the dolphins?

   No! It’s bad for them. Just watch and take photos.

5. Do tours go if it rains?

   Only if it’s light. Storms cancel trips, but you get a refund.

6. Is snorkeling safe for non-swimmers?

   Yes! Guides give floaties and stay close.

7. How long are the tours?

   2.5 to 3 hours. Eco tour sometimes shorter if weather changes.

8. Do you tip the crew?

   Not required, but they love it! €5-10 per family is nice.