Funchal: RIB Whale Watching Cruise and Optional Dolphin Swim

A RIB boat in open ocean water is a simple idea, but it works well here because you’re chasing wild dolphins and whales from a fast, nimble small craft. I love the small-group setup, and I love that the guides, like Anna and Paulo, focus on what you’re seeing and why the animals matter. The main drawback to plan for is weather, sea spray, and wind, since a quick choppy moment can make the ride feel tougher.

You’ll start in Funchal’s harbor, get a lifejacket and safety briefing, then head out along Madeira’s coast for wildlife searching that mixes patience with speed. I also like the operator’s clear animal-welfare stance, including strict rules for when swimming is allowed. Consider this: the wildlife search is not guaranteed, even with an excellent odds track record, so bring a flexible mindset.

If you add the dolphin swim, it’s not a long swim party. Think short and controlled, attached to the boat for a brief snorkel with dolphins, only when the animals meet legal conditions.

Key things that make this cruise worth your time

• Small boat, intimate sightings with dolphins and whales as close as a responsible approach allows
• Spotter-assisted searching to improve your chances of finding cetaceans fast
• Dolphin swim add-on is rule-based (only for specific dolphin types when conditions allow)
• Short time in the water in most cases about 1-2 minutes per participant, with mask and snorkel provided
• Fast RIB between locations so you maximize lookout time in a 2.5-hour outing
• Backup plan if no cetaceans appear a free repeat trip within 1 year if availability allows

Why a Madeira RIB is built for real wildlife moments

On Madeira, you can find plenty of boat tours. What makes this one feel special is the combination of a RIB’s speed and a small-group approach. A faster boat gets you to possible sightings quickly. A smaller group means less time watching from far back and more time actually tracking the animals as they move.

You also feel the crew’s confidence in how they run the day. The guides share species info in English and Portuguese, and they don’t just narrate. They point out what you should look for, then they guide your attention to it as the dolphins or whales surface. People often notice that tone: friendly, professional, and practical.

The other big piece is the animal-welfare mindset. You’re not going out to crowd the ocean. You’re going out to observe, and the rules matter. That shows up in how the swim option works and in how the boat responds when wildlife is nearby.

From Funchal Harbor to open ocean: what the 2.5 hours feels like

The experience starts with the basics done properly. You board, get a safety briefing, and put on your lifejacket. Then you leave the harbor and immediately shift into lookout mode, with views of Madeira’s coastline at all times.

Once you’re out, the routine becomes simple:

• Search areas where sightings are more likely
• Keep scanning for movement and surfacing patterns
• Adjust course when the wildlife appears

This is one of those activities where you really do need a bit of patience and luck. The operator states a yearly average around 99% of trips with at least one cetacean species. That’s a strong odds number. Still, nature is nature, so don’t treat any wildlife tour like a ticket you can’t lose.

After you’ve been on the water for at least 2 hours (often a bit longer than the minimum), you head back to Funchal’s marina to disembark. The timing matters because it gives the crew room to reposition. A lot of value in whale and dolphin watching comes from the ability to move quickly without rushing the search.

What species you might realistically spot

The day is centered on wild dolphins and whales. The operator also notes that sometimes you might see turtles. People frequently describe multiple species when conditions line up, including different dolphin types and whale pods.

Even if you end up seeing just one cetacean species, you’re still buying something rare. Seeing dolphins close to the boat is one thing. Seeing whales in the way you get from an out-on-the-water viewing position is another.

Madeira’s coast views and the Cabo Girao photo stop

This outing isn’t only about the ocean. The route includes a stop at Cabo Girao Cliff, with a photo pause and sightseeing/scenic drive. If you’re spending most of your trip on boats and beaches, this brief land viewpoint is a nice reset.

Cabo Girao is the kind of place where you’ll quickly get why Madeira is famous for dramatic drop-offs and photogenic coastline. Even with limited time, you’re likely to want to step out, take a couple photos, and orient yourself for the rest of your Madeira days.

If you’re the type who gets impatient with “drive-by” stops, treat this as a short moment rather than the main event. The core value stays on the water.

Optional Swim With Dolphins: how it really works

Let’s talk about the swim option plainly, because it’s the part people get excited about, and you should know what you’re signing up for.

The swim add-on costs 20€ per participant. But important detail: that amount is only charged on-site if they’re able to place you in the water. If they can’t legally enter with the dolphins for your situation, you pay the standard trip price only.

When you’ll actually be allowed in

You’re not guaranteed a swim. The crew can only enter the water when the dolphins meet legal conditions. They specifically mention Common Dolphins and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins as the allowed types.

Also, they only put people in the water when the animals are behaving in the right way under local animal protection law. So the swim depends on dolphin behavior, not only dolphin presence.

What your time in the water looks like

If the swim happens, masks and snorkels are available. Your time in the water is usually around 1-2 minutes per participant. The format is controlled and attached to the boat, with participants holding a rope attached to the RIB while dolphins swim around.

That rope-and-hold setup is not just for show. It helps keep you stable in the water and reduces chaotic movement near the animals. A lot of people who add this option frame it as worth it even when it’s brief, because the payoff is the close, real-world feeling of being in the same water space as wild dolphins.

Who should consider the swim

This is best for:

• You if you like snorkeling and can stay calm in a short, controlled window
• You if you’re comfortable holding onto the boat rope
• You if you want a nature moment that feels hands-on, but still respectful

If you’re prone to panic in open water or you really dislike the idea of short, fast timing, skip the add-on. The main boat experience still delivers.

The crew, the equipment, and animal welfare you can feel on the day

The standout pattern here is consistency. People repeatedly praise the guides for being friendly and informed, and for explaining what’s going on without turning it into a lecture.

Names that come up again and again include Anna, Paulo, Mark, and Paolo/Marc as guide or captain roles. Beyond name-dropping, what matters is the vibe: professional, calm, and focused on the animals.

Equipment and safety comfort

You’re given a lifejacket. People also call out that the equipment feels professional. That’s not a small point. A strong safety setup helps you relax enough to watch dolphins instead of worrying about what’s next.

Animal welfare as an actual practice

One review-style detail that you should treat as a good sign: the crew can make small stops to remove floating debris. That kind of action fits the overall message of respect for the sea.

More importantly, the swim rules show up clearly in how the crew behaves. If they can’t legally or safely enter, they won’t. That makes the whole outing feel like observation first, adventure second.

Pricing and value: why $61 can feel like a fair deal

At $61 per person for the standard cruise, this can be great value, mainly because you’re not buying a slow sightseeing cruise. You’re buying a fast RIB ride designed to chase movement, plus the chance at multiple cetacean sightings.

What you get for that price:

• A small-group RIB outing in Madeira waters
• A real guiding experience with English and Portuguese
• Safety gear included (lifejackets)
• Fees, taxes, and fuel surcharges included

Then there are the extras that can make the day feel even more worthwhile.

The dolphin swim add-on is smartly structured

The swim add-on is 20€ on-site only if it’s possible. That’s a fair way to price something dependent on nature and legal conditions. You’re not paying extra just to hope.

The second trip promise if wildlife fails

If the day goes by without any cetacean sightings, they invite you to join another trip for free within one year time, if availability allows and it’s non-transferable. That doesn’t remove the uncertainty of wildlife, but it does reduce your regret.

Private option if you’re a group

If you prefer privacy, there’s also a private tour option. The private boat can take up to 18 passengers, which can be a practical choice for families or friend groups who don’t want to mix with others.

Sea conditions and motion sickness: what to expect on a RIB

A RIB ride is fast. Fast boats can also mean bouncier water. One person specifically noted that they did not get the usual sea-motion sickness they expected on a RIB, which is worth noting if you’re sensitive.

But do not ignore the risk. The operator explicitly warns that it can quickly get windy out at sea. Your best defense is simple:

• Bring a windbreaker
• Add layers if you’re going in cooler months
• Wear sunglasses and a sun hat if it’s bright
• Use sunscreen

If you’re prone to feeling rough, consider taking your usual sea-sickness prevention. And if you’re sitting in a spot that feels too bouncy, be flexible and follow the crew’s guidance.

Best for families, couples, and animal lovers with time to spare

This tour fits a few clear types of travelers.

You’ll enjoy it if:

• You want wildlife time without spending a half day traveling far
• You like the idea of a quick, guided search with multiple possible outcomes
• You care about animal rules and responsible viewing

It’s also family-friendly in practice. People mention enjoying the trip with children. The boat is small enough that kids can actually see what’s happening, and the crew keeps the day moving between lookout points.

If you want the absolute gentlest ride, a slower catamaran might suit you better. But if you’re okay with speed and maybe a bumpy return, the RIB style is part of the fun.

Should you book the Funchal RIB whale watching cruise with optional dolphin swim?

Book it if you want your Madeira day to include close-up ocean life and you’re okay with wildlife being wildlife. The small-group RIB format gives you a more intimate experience than you get on bigger boats, and the guidance from people like Anna and Paulo is a real part of the value.

Add the swim option only if you’re comfortable with a short, attached snorkel experience and you accept that it depends on legal conditions and dolphin behavior. Even without the swim, you’re still out on the water for a full wildlife hunt, with the chance of dolphins, whales, and sometimes turtles.

If you hate windy, wet, and bouncy conditions, keep that in mind and dress for it. A windbreaker and layers can turn discomfort into a tolerable ride. Otherwise, this is a strong choice for anyone who wants Madeira’s ocean to be the main character for a couple hours.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The duration is 2.5 hours.

Is swim with dolphins included in the price?

No. Swim with dolphins is an optional add-on. The snorkel setup and mask are available if swimming is permitted.

How much does the dolphin swim cost, and when do I pay?

The swim add-on costs 20€ per participant. It is charged on-site only if the crew can legally place you in the water with the dolphins. If swimming is not possible, you pay only the standard trip price.

What conditions allow you to enter the water with the dolphins?

The crew can only enter the water if they spot Common Dolphins or Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, and if the animals are behaving in a way that meets local animal protection rules.

What should I bring for the trip?

Bring a windbreaker, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a jacket. The sea can get windy quickly.

Is there a private tour option?

Yes. A private boat can be booked for groups up to 18 passengers.