Where to go · PORTUGAL WHALE WATCHING TOURS
Madeira and the Azores sit over deep Atlantic water within sight of land, which is why sperm whales and pilot whales turn up so close in. The 15 below compare catamarans and inflatables on price, sea state and time on the water.
Review of Madeira’s 3-hour eco catamaran cruise, with hybrid engines, dolphin and whale spotting, coastal views, and practical tips.
“Pleasant and knowledgeable crew: We saw dolphins and Pilot whales!”
Review of Madeira’s Seaborn catamaran cruise, with dolphin and whale watching, Cabo Girão views, swimming, prices, tips, and practical details.
“The boat is amazing and the crew were top! We saw dolphins and swam and the ocean. Thank you for the great experience. 🙏😊”
Review of Ponta Delgada whale watching, with boat choices, seasonal sightings, practical tips, pricing, and advice for choosing your trip.
“Staff were helpful, friendly and knowledgeable, made the trip so much more. We were on the water for 3 hours and had multiple dolphin sightings, and a Sei whale for good measure. Boat was pretty full, and everyone wants the best view so choose your seats accordingly.”
Review of Azores whale watching from Vila Franca, with a marine biologist, zodiac boat, volcanic islet views, and free repeat tour promise.
“Perfect! Had the most wonderful experience with awesome guides! Say 7 spermwhales, another whale and many dolfphines!”
Review of Madeira’s $47 Funchal catamaran cruise, with whale watching, Cabo Girão swimming, practical tips, value, and honest drawbacks.
“Very nice cruise, unfortunately no dolphins but we saw a flying fish.”
Review of Madeira’s $93 luxury catamaran tour, with whale and dolphin watching, Cabo Girão swimming, local snacks, and unlimited drinks.
“We had a fantastic time on this boat trip! The crew was super friendly and made everyone feel welcome from the start. The boat wasn’t overcrowded, so there was plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the view comfortably. We were treated to some delicious snacks while on board. The highlight of the trip was definitely spotting whales! An unforgettable experience that I would absolutely recommend.”
Review of Madeira’s eco-catamaran whale and dolphin cruise from Funchal, with wildlife tips, route details, comfort notes, and honest value advice.
“Great experience. We saw lots of dolphins. First time and would do it again. Well worth the money. Go for it.”
Review of Madeira’s luxury catamaran whale watch from Funchal, with Cabo Girão views, marine life, swimming, crew, price, and practical tips.
“Great and informative guides, comfortable boat, nice fruit and drinks, overall a great experience.”
Review of VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching in Madeira, with small groups, drinks, snacks, swimming at Cabo Girao, and practical booking tips.
“This was a fantastic trip. The crew were lovely, very attentive and knowledgeable. The boat was spacious and very comfortable with a choice of seats for all. The drinks and snacks were delicious. There are two WCs. The whole trip was delightful, I cannot recommend it highly enough.”
Sail from Funchal at sunset, search for whales and dolphins, swim beneath Cabo Girão, and enjoy drinks on a small guided yacht.
“Worth it even if you don't see the creatures :) With the right weather the trip is exciting, and the views simply stunning. Our guide, Bruno, is funny and knowledgabe so made you feel at ease and safe. We stopped for a swim in the ocean (amazing) and there was an open bar with local specialties. Couldn't recommend more :D”
Review of Madeira’s 3-hour dolphin and whale catamaran tour, with Cabo Girão swimming, practical tips, pricing, and honest advice.
“Great trip away from the island with stunning views back. We were lucky enough to see both dolphins swimming along with the boat AND a sperm whale approx 20m from us who popped up to se what was going on. Emotional! Fun but unobtrusive commentary. If I'd remembered my towel I'd have swum with the fishes in the bay too.”
Sail from Funchal to Cabo Girão for dolphin and whale watching, swimming, snorkeling, coastal views, and drinks on a small yacht.
“Bruno was amazing and the rest of the crew. It was such an enjoyable experience and we got to see Dolphins. I would highly recommend.”
Review of Madeira’s fast, small-group whale and dolphin tour, with marine biologists, wild cetaceans, practical tips, and honest value advice.
“Had a fabulous time, magical seeing dolphins in their natural environment. Crew were excellent. Enjoyed it so much we booked again.”
Review of São Miguel’s 3-hour whale-watching cruise with marine biologists, boat choices, wildlife, practical tips, price, and booking advice.
“Good day on the water. We sawanu dolphins and a few whales.”
Review of Madeira’s small-group whale and dolphin speedboat tour, with wildlife tips, swim conditions, meeting details, and honest value advice.
“Very focused on respectful way of seeing the dolphins.”
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