From Funchal: Cabo Girao Sunset Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

This Madeira cruise review focuses on a 3-hour sunset cruise from Funchal aboard a spacious, comfortable catamaran, heading toward the striking Cabo Girao. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the consistently high ratings and detailed reviews suggest it’s a memorable way to see the coast, spot marine animals, and enjoy a relaxing evening on the water.

One thing I really like about this experience is how it combines wildlife watching with scenic beauty. You might see dolphins or whales, which makes it more than just a boat ride. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic at Cabo Girao—an iconic cliff known for its vertiginous height—is quite unique.

A potential consideration is that the tour starts at a specific meeting point in Funchal’s marina, and there’s no included hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your transportation. Also, if you’re looking for a lively party atmosphere, this cruise is more about relaxation and natural sights, with a calm, friendly vibe praised by many travelers.

This cruise looks like a fantastic choice for those wanting a balanced mix of wildlife, scenic views, and gentle adventure—especially if you’re keen on spotting dolphins or enjoying a peaceful sunset at sea.

Key points / Takeaways

• Marine wildlife sightings like dolphins, pilot whales, and sperm whales add excitement to the trip.
• Comfortable, spacious catamaran ensures a relaxed environment for all passengers.
• Swimming stop at Cabo Girao offers a rare chance to float in crystal-clear waters with breathtaking coastal views.
• Sunset views provide stunning color displays as the sun dips behind the cliffs and ocean.
• No hotel pickup means you need to arrange your own transport to the marina.
• Good value at $45, considering the inclusion of a snorkeling stop, guide, and the chance to see wildlife and the coast.

Setting Sail from Funchal Marina

The adventure begins at the Atlantic Pearl ticket counter located at Marina Nova do Funchal, just a few meters from the catamaran itself. You’ll check in smoothly and board a spacious, comfortable boat where the crew is friendly and attentive. Expect a relaxed start, as the boat isn’t crowded—several reviews mention the calm, unhurried atmosphere, which is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Madeira.

The duration of three hours means you get plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, watch for dolphins, and take a dip if you’re inclined. The trip runs in the late afternoon, aligning perfectly with the sunset, so timing is key for catching those dramatic colors.

Cruising along Madeira’s Southern Coast

Once underway, you’ll glide across calm waters, watching the coast of Madeira slowly drift by. The views are especially good on this cruise, as it’s designed to highlight Cabo Girao, one of the world’s tallest sea cliffs. From the water, you see it towering overhead, offering a perspective you can’t get from land. The cruise offers a chance to see the imposing cliffs from a different angle, making for some fantastic photo opportunities.

The trip isn’t just about scenery. The crew, which many reviews describe as friendly, funny, and attentive, keeps an eye out for marine life. As one reviewer put it, they actively ask passengers for wishes and try to find animals, making the experience more engaging. Some lucky travelers have even seen dolphins—including bottlenose dolphins and pods of other playful marine mammals—adding an element of surprise and joy.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Cabo Girao

One of the trip’s highlights is the chance to dive into the Atlantic at a stunning location. The water here is described as crystal clear, inviting swimmers to cool off and take in the scenery from a different perspective. The crew often stops for a while so passengers can jump in and enjoy the invigorating experience.

Several travelers mention that, despite some cloudy weather, the stop was still worth it. The combination of swimming in such a spectacular spot and watching the cliffs from the water makes it a memorable part of the cruise. A towel and swimwear are recommended, along with sunscreen and sunglasses for comfort.

Sunset and Coastal Views

As the cruise approaches its end, the real magic begins. The sun starts to cast a warm, colorful glow across the sky and sea. Though some reviews note it was cloudy during their trip, most agree that the sunset view is breathtaking when visible. The crew often stops to let passengers soak in the scene, offering a peaceful, almost meditative moment.

Even if the sunset isn’t as vivid as hoped, the journey’s overall ambiance—calm waters, gentle breeze, and the natural beauty of Madeira’s coast—makes the experience worthwhile.

Practical Details: Price, Logistics, and Comfort

At $45 per person, this cruise offers good value, especially considering the snorkeling stop, onboard guide, and bathrooms. It’s a straightforward activity, with no included food or drinks, but onboard beverages are available for purchase. Keep in mind, there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get yourself to the marina, which is quite central and easy to reach.

The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese, with live guides ensuring you don’t miss out on the sights or wildlife. The group size is manageable, avoiding the feeling of being packed onto a crowded vessel.

This activity is best suited for those who appreciate relaxing, scenic outings rather than high-energy adventures. It’s also perfect for travelers interested in wildlife spotting and enjoying a peaceful evening at sea.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re a nature lover, enjoy wildlife, and want a gentle cruise with exceptional views, this is a winner. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxing, authentic Madeira experience. If you’re after a lively party atmosphere, this might feel too subdued, but for genuine, natural beauty, it’s hard to beat.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Cruise?

In essence, this cruise offers more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to see Madeira from the water, spot playful dolphins, and witness a stunning sunset over the coast. The value for money is high, with the inclusion of wildlife watching, snorkeling, and scenic views.

It’s ideal for those who value authentic experiences and natural beauty over extravagance. If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic outing that balances wildlife, landscape, and sea, this trip fits the bill well. Be prepared for a comfortable ride, some chances to swim, and hopefully, some delightful animal sightings.

This tour is perfect if you’re in Funchal and want an affordable, memorable way to end your day with the beauty of Madeira’s coast and ocean at your side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your way to the Atlantic Pearl ticket counter at Marina Nova do Funchal.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and swimwear are recommended. These items help you enjoy the cruise comfortably and make the most of swimming opportunities.

Can I see marine animals like dolphins and whales?
Yes, the crew actively look for dolphins and whales, and reviews frequently mention sightings of bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and sperm whales.

Is this cruise suitable for children or elderly?
While it’s a gentle, relaxing trip, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users. Families with children who enjoy marine wildlife and swimming will find it enjoyable.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food isn’t included, but drinks are available for purchase onboard. The focus is on scenic cruising and wildlife watching.

What if the weather is cloudy or rainy?
Weather can impact the sunset views and water visibility. However, many travelers still enjoyed the experience, citing the calming sea and scenic coast as worthwhile regardless.

In the end, this cruise offers a chance to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty from a different perspective. With good value, scenic views, and the possibility of dolphin sightings, it’s a relaxing yet engaging option for a memorable evening out.