Dolphins & Whales by VMT
Overview
Embark on comfortable catamarans for a relaxing trip along Madeira's south coast. Get the chance to spot dolphins, whales and occasionally even turtles. There is also the possibility to swim in the crystal clear waters below the Cabo Girão sea cliff, if the weather and sea conditions are good.
What's Included
- 3 hour catamaran trip for dolphin and whale watching
- Transfer
- Snacks and Drinks
Meeting Location
Quiosque VMT Madeira
CRPF, São Martinho, 9000-055 Funchal, Portugal
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Experience a 3-hour trip by catamaran along the south coast of Madeira Island. We depart from Funchal Marina, giving a quick briefing about the trip and safety matters on board. The crew then starts their search for dolphins and whales, and any other marine wildlife, using binoculars equipped with a compass, doing their best with their experienced eyes. During the summer months, there is the possibility to swim in the crystal clear waters below Cabo Girão if the conditions are good, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world at 580m (1903 ft) in altitude.
During the trip, our qualified crew will give you detailed information about the species of cetaceans you are seeing as well as other technical and historic information to ensure a complete and unique experience.
Since we are dealing with wildlife, there are times that you could end up the trip with no sightings. In the event of no sightings of cetaceans (dolphins or whales), you will be offered with a complimentary trip to go again on an alternative occasion (valid for 1 year since travel date).
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- We always recommend bringing sunscreen and a windbreaker. You can also bring a towel and a bathing suit.
- If no cetaceans (dolphins or whales) are spotted, you will be offered a second trip free of charge to try again on the day and at the time of your choice, subject to our availability.
- Swimming is subject to favorable weather and sea conditions.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 180 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (10)
Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-7775P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.42 out of 5 stars based on 452 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (10)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.
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As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Dolphins & Whales by VMT. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.
Dec 2022If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (WET).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- 3 hour catamaran trip for dolphin and whale watching.
- Transfer.
- Snacks and Drinks.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Dolphins & Whales by VMT is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Dolphins & Whales by VMT will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- 3 hour catamaran trip for dolphin and whale watching
- Transfer
- Snacks and Drinks
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- We always recommend bringing sunscreen and a windbreaker. You can also bring a towel and a bathing suit.
- If no cetaceans (dolphins or whales) are spotted, you will be offered a second trip free of charge to try again on the day and at the time of your choice, subject to our availability.
- Swimming is subject to favorable weather and sea conditions.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 180 travelers
