Board Ventura do Mar in Funchal and head 3 nautical miles offshore for a 3-hour dolphin and whale watching trip. Expect volcanic cliffs, possible swims near Cabo Girão, and on-board snorkeling and SUP gear.
Board Ventura do Mar in Funchal and head 3 nautical miles offshore for a 3-hour dolphin and whale watching trip. Expect volcanic cliffs, possible swims near Cabo Girão, and on-board snorkeling and SUP gear.
You step aboard Ventura do Mar in Funchal as the harbor peels away and the city’s terraced cliffs shrink behind you. The Atlantic opens wide and the boat slips into a steady rhythm; gulls wheel and the horizon looks like a moving wall of blue. Within 15–30 minutes you’ll be about 3 nautical miles off the south coast, where the swell and current concentrate the food that brings dolphins and whales close to the surface.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ventura Nature Emotions -Day Tours · Funchal, Madeira
You step aboard Ventura do Mar in Funchal as the harbor peels away and the city’s terraced cliffs shrink behind you. The Atlantic opens wide and the boat slips into a steady rhythm; gulls wheel and the horizon looks like a moving wall of blue. Within 15–30 minutes you’ll be about 3 nautical miles off the south coast, where the swell and current concentrate the food that brings dolphins and whales close to the surface.
Madeira’s coastline is volcanic: basalt cliffs, former lava flows and the high escarpment of Cabo Girão to the west, which rises nearly 580 meters above the sea. The island’s maritime history is founded on fishing and Atlantic trade routes; local crews still read the ocean the way generations of fisherman did. Cultural life in Funchal revolves around the water—markets, cable cars and viewpoints follow the same lines that your boat now traces.
Practical guidance: this is a relaxed, family-friendly 3-hour trip (max ~16 passengers). The boat has a service bar and toilet; snorkeling and stand-up paddle gear are available and, if weather allows, the crew may stop for a swim near the base of Cabo Girão. Dress in layers, bring sun protection and something to secure loose items; the crew provides warm coats on cold days. Seasickness can be an issue for sensitive riders—consider medication or acupressure bands.
Timing: mornings often have calmer seas; check cancellation policies (24-hour full refund). Keep distance from animals, follow crew instructions, and bring a charged camera with a fast shutter to capture porpoising dolphins against the dramatic Madeiran cliffs.
Sightings are common but not guaranteed—crews target known feeding areas about 3 nautical miles offshore, and sightings depend on season and weather.
The crew may offer a supervised swim if weather and sea state permit; follow safety briefings and wear provided snorkeling gear.
Yes; the tour is rated easy and suitable for most ages, though guests must be able to board via a low ladder and follow safety instructions.
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; the operator may cancel in poor weather and offer refund or reschedule.
Ventura Nature Emotions -Day Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You step aboard Ventura do Mar in Funchal as the harbor peels away and the city’s terraced cliffs shrink behind you. The Atlantic opens wide and the boat slips into a steady rhythm; gulls wheel and the horizon looks like a moving wall of blue. Within 15–30 minutes you’ll be about 3 nautical miles off the south coast, where the swell and current concentrate the food that brings dolphins and whales close to the surface.
You step aboard Ventura do Mar in Funchal as the harbor peels away and the city’s terraced cliffs shrink behind you. The Atlantic opens wide and the boat slips into a steady rhythm; gulls wheel and the horizon looks like a moving wall of blue. Within 15–30 minutes you’ll be about 3 nautical miles off the south coast, where the swell and current concentrate the food that brings dolphins and whales close to the surface.
Madeira’s coastline is volcanic: basalt cliffs, former lava flows and the high escarpment of Cabo Girão to the west, which rises nearly 580 meters above the sea. The island’s maritime history is founded on fishing and Atlantic trade routes; local crews still read the ocean the way generations of fisherman did. Cultural life in Funchal revolves around the water—markets, cable cars and viewpoints follow the same lines that your boat now traces.
Practical guidance: this is a relaxed, family-friendly 3-hour trip (max ~16 passengers). The boat has a service bar and toilet; snorkeling and stand-up paddle gear are available and, if weather allows, the crew may stop for a swim near the base of Cabo Girão. Dress in layers, bring sun protection and something to secure loose items; the crew provides warm coats on cold days. Seasickness can be an issue for sensitive riders—consider medication or acupressure bands.
Timing: mornings often have calmer seas; check cancellation policies (24-hour full refund). Keep distance from animals, follow crew instructions, and bring a charged camera with a fast shutter to capture porpoising dolphins against the dramatic Madeiran cliffs.