Funchal: Guarantee Wild Dolphin&Whale Watching by RIB

A Close-Up Look at Madeira’s Marine Life on a Small-Group RIB Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing dolphins and whales in their natural environment while enjoying the thrill of a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) ride, then the Madeira Divepoint’s Guarantee Wild Dolphin & Whale Watching tour might be just what you need. This 2.5-hour adventure takes you along Madeira’s breathtaking south coast, with a high chance of spotting wild cetaceans—dolphins, whales, and sometimes even turtles. What’s especially appealing about this experience is its intimacy: a small boat means fewer fellow travelers and more personal encounters with the sea creatures, making it a more authentic interaction than larger cruise ships.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the small group size, which enhances the chances of close-up wildlife sightings and the snorkeling option—if conditions allow, you can actually get in the water and swim with the dolphins, a rare chance in the wild. The guides, known for their friendliness and local knowledge, seem committed to respectful wildlife viewing, which is crucial if you want to enjoy nature without disturbing it.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency—sea conditions can change quickly, especially in winter months, so packing a windbreaker or waterproof jacket is wise. The trip is also priced at $59 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the experience and the professional guides involved. Plus, if no animals are spotted, you get a second trip free within a year, offering real value for the investment.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small-group Tours: Expect an intimate experience that allows for better wildlife observation and personal interaction with guides.
• High Success Rate: With an average of 99% of trips seeing at least one cetacean species, your chances of witnessing dolphins or whales are quite high.
• Snorkeling Option: For just an extra $20, you might swim with dolphins—an unforgettable highlight if the animals are behaving appropriately.
• Wildlife Respect: Guides focus on respectful viewing, following local laws that only allow swimming with certain dolphin species.
• Weather Prep: Be sure to bring windproof clothing and sun protection, as conditions can be windy and sunny at sea.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and pay later for flexibility.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the biggest draws of this RIB tour is its personalized approach. Unlike large cruise ships, this small-group trip creates a more relaxed atmosphere and increases your chances of seeing wildlife close-up. The guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and local expertise, making the trip both educational and fun. As one traveler noted, the guides are “super friendly and personable,” which adds a lot to the overall experience.

The stunning sea views along Madeira’s coastline are another highlight. The tour begins with a safety briefing at the start, followed by a scenic cruise before the wildlife search begins. On a clear day, you’ll see dramatic cliff formations like Cabo Girao, providing a scenic backdrop to the wildlife hunt.

What to Expect on the Trip: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point and Logistics
Your adventure begins at one of two flexible meeting points, either the XpointMadeira or right from Funchal’s harbor. The exact location depends on your booking, but both are conveniently situated for travelers staying in or near Funchal. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by a crew that will give a safety briefing, show you how to don your lifejacket, and set expectations for the trip.

The Boat Ride and Scenic Drive
The actual boat ride lasts about two and a half hours, during which you’ll travel along Madeira’s coastline. The boat itself, a small but sturdy RIB, offers plenty of speed and agility. As you cruise, your guides will point out notable sights along the coast, such as the impressive cliffs of Cabo Girao, one of the world’s highest sea cliffs.

Wildlife Spotting
The core of the experience is searching for dolphins and whales. Guides have an impressive success rate, with a 99% chance of sightings per year. They rely on experienced eyes and some luck, as marine animals are wild and unpredictable. Travelers have reported seeing pilot whales, Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, and sometimes turtles. The trip’s respectful approach means the crew minimizes disturbance, and only specific dolphin species are legally allowed for swimming.

Swimming with Dolphins (Optional)
If you opt for the “Swim with Dolphins” add-on, you’ll get a rare opportunity to get in the water with the animals. The guides will attach you to the boat with a line, and if dolphins are behaving peacefully, you’ll have about 1-2 minutes to snorkel alongside them. Remember, this is dependent on animal behavior and legal restrictions, which only permit swimming with certain species like the Common or Atlantic Spotted Dolphins. Many reviews mention this as a highlight, with one traveler describing it as “a cool experience” despite the short time.

Post-Trip Return
After the search, you’ll head back to Funchal’s marina, feeling satisfied if you’ve had a good wildlife encounter. If not, the company offers a second trip free of charge within a year, which is a significant reassurance for wildlife tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy adventure, nature, and authentic encounters. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat without the crowds of larger boats, this will appeal. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who appreciate a more personalized and respectful approach to wildlife watching.

Those who want a value-packed experience will find the price reasonable, especially considering the chance of multiple sightings and the free re-try policy if animals are absent. Plus, the option to snorkel adds an extra layer of fun for those comfortable in the water.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or don’t enjoy windy conditions, be sure to prepare properly with windproof gear, as the open sea can be unpredictable. Also, those expecting a long, leisurely cruise should note that this is a focused, high-energy wildlife search rather than a laid-back sightseeing trip.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $59 per person, the trip is competitively priced for what you get—a compact, well-organized adventure with a high success rate for sightings. The small group size means you’ll have more chances for close-up views and personal contact, which often gets lost on larger tours. The possibility of a free second trip if no wildlife is spotted further enhances the value, mitigating the risk of a disappointment.

The timing is flexible, with start times depending on availability, so you can pick a slot that suits your schedule. The trip length, at 2.5 hours, strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the sea and wildlife but not so long as to be tiring or overly expensive for a quick adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

If you’re seeking an adventure that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and a sense of genuine connection with the sea, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for eco-conscious travelers eager to watch dolphins and whales respectfully, and for those who love the idea of a small, lively boat ride rather than a crowded cruise.

Families with older children, couples, or friends looking for a memorable shared experience will find this trip perfect. It’s also a smart choice if you want a trusted, flexible activity with excellent reviews and a high likelihood of success. Just remember to come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenic coast and wildlife search without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the boat trip, all necessary safety equipment, and taxes. If you choose the snorkeling/ swimming option, it needs to be booked separately and charged on-site if possible.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private groups of up to 18 people can be arranged, making it a great choice for families or friends wanting exclusive space.

What should I bring?
Bring windproof clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. It can get windy at sea, especially in winter, so dressing in layers is advised.

What happens if no animals are seen?
If no cetaceans are spotted, you’re invited to join another trip free of charge within a year, as long as availability allows.

Is the trip suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, children comfortable in the water and with boat rides generally enjoy this experience. It’s best suited for families with older kids or teenagers.

This small-group dolphin and whale watching tour in Madeira offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and respect for nature. With knowledgeable guides and a high success rate, it’s a practical choice for those looking to see marine life while enjoying the thrill of a high-speed boat ride. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just after a fun day on the water, this trip provides an authentic taste of Madeira’s marine environment.