VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching
5
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*
VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching
By Vip Dolphins
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 3-100, max of 17 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: Portuguese, English, Spanish
More
- We offer a variety of snacks and biscuits during this experience.
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Soda/Pop
- Bottled water
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Blankets
- Towels
What's not included- Pick-ups
- Start:
- VipDolphins Catamaran Whale Watching, Praça do Povo, 9000-900 Funchal, PortugalCheck-in 30 minutes before departure at the VipDolphins Kiosk. We are located in the marina in the city center of Funchal. Plan for traffic and accidents. The boat leaves on time and cannot wait if you are late, even if you call. No refunds or free reschedules for late arrivals.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 135615P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travellers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travellers can participate
- Children under 3 years old are not allowed
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 17 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 135615P1
From
£66.25
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- nicolacL9290JO0 contributionsAmazing experienceThis is our second time on a trip with VIP Dolphins and it did not disappoint. From the moment you step on the boat you are treated like royalty. The crew members are amazing and very knowledgeable. Initially we thought we weren’t going to see anything but then a pod of beaked whales was spotted by another boat so we headed in that direction. We were lucky enough to see a pod of them swimming on the surface I would highly recommend this trip and wouldn’t hesitate to book it againWritten 22 August 2024
- accidentprone0 contributionsTop class crew and experienceWe had a fantastic time on this half day trip, we went in the afternoon and the sea was fairly calm. The staff are so friendly and professional, topping up your drinks and lots of snacks while chatting with all on board. There were 14 of us and there was masses of space for everyone. We were lucky enough to see lots of dolphins and they came up really close to the boat, so that was very special, no sign of any whales that day though. This trip is a must do, it just feels more individual than the large boats with loads of people on. Don’t hesitate to book this one, you will not be disappointed.Written 4 February 2024
- PH-WALTHAM0 contributionsFantastic, relaxing VIP catamaran trip - highly recommendThe crew on the catamaran were friendly, funny, knowledgeable and very accommodating. As they limit the number of guests on the catamaran this makes it comfortable with enough space for all. The snacks offered were freshly made and enjoyable. The drinks served were varied and if you want plentiful. My husband felt a bit seasick and they took care of him very well. The highlight was seeing the whales which we were luckily enough to see which was made all the better for the enthusiasm and passion that the crew clearly have for these lovely sea animals. The added bonus was that the crew take photos of the whales, so you don’t miss the experience of seeing them, they also take photos of you on board and when swimming so that you can relax and enjoy the trip. The photos are then sent to you a week later for you to keep of your time of board. This was one of the best boat trips of this kind I have experienced and would highly recommend.Written 22 November 2023
- Denmead320 contributionsWhat a trip - book this - don’t even think about it - you won’t regret it - the best example of amazing customer serviceWe did the 3 hour trip yesterday while staying in Funchal. Have to say, it was brilliant from start to finish. Really well organised, communication from the staff was excellent - friendly & informative. 17 ‘guests’ on the boat plus 3 crew so plenty of room to move around and relax. The Crew were so attentive to every need - nothing was too much trouble. They continually offered drinks, brought round snacks - if you asked for a drink the answer was “Yes, take a seat, relax, we’ll bring it over”. Honestly, this was an example of first class customer service. We didn’t see any dolphins or turtles, but the company can’t control nature and it really didn’t bother us - it was enough to relax, enjoy the sun, the food, the drink and listen to the staff as they took time to tell us some facts about the coastline and marine life. We did see a Loggerhead Turtle and the staff had the book ready so we could learn about them. So glad we did this trip - it was a highlight of our long weekend break. I’ve already recommended it to my dad when he comes to Madeira and we’d definitely go again if we ever make it back. Book this trip - you won’t regret it! Thank you to all the staff - keep doing what you’re doing - it’s perfect!Written 18 November 2023
- paulsL4439JC0 contributionsAwesome experienceAwesome experience, Very well run from start to finish, very professional outfit with great service once on the boat. The company run a cap on the max numbers (17 i think) which makes all the difference, all the other boats we saw looked crowded, this made for a really chilled ride. Easy to move around the boat and get any vantage point you want. Staff were excellent, friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable and were great with the kids. Wouldn't hesitate to book again,Written 12 November 2023
- katiecG2954EP0 contributionsDon’t miss out on this world class experienceOur experience with this tour could not be topped. From the care team gives the animals, to the expert level of knowledge, to the accommodations, everything was incredible. The crew were so kind and warm. I ended up getting pretty sea sick and they took care of me with such compassion. I would 10/10 recommendWritten 10 November 2023
- Diane F0 contributionsBrilliant tripBeautiful yacht, fantastic crew, we were fortunate enough to see a pod of Pilot wales. We had a lovely swim, snorkelling amongst the fish. Snacks and drinks included, along with towels, blankets, and snorkel masks. We had a fantastic time. The crew, including 2 Francisco's, were knowledgeable and attentive. Definitely recommend and would do it again. Thank you.Written 8 November 2023
- Jjay050 contributionsHighly recommendedThis was a fantastic afternoon spent in luxury. The crew couldn’t have been more courteous or considerate and nothing was too much effort. An added bonus was that they took photos of the wildlife and sent them onto us so that we could just enjoy them.Written 28 October 2023
- Rowena M0 contributionsVip experience with the best staffThis was definitely a VIP experience. From the moment we boarded the boat we were treated like vip. Lots of info from crew and lots if delicious snacks and local drinks. All the extra little touches made for a relaxing trip. Also seeing dolphins in natural habitat is really beautiful 😍Written 4 October 2023
- Lynn B0 contributionsAmazing DolphinsWe went on the vip dolphin tour, we chose the afternoon slot, as it suited us better, the boat was beautiful ❤️all the staff we very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw dolphins very early into out trip which was amazing, seeing these beautiful dolphins in their own habitat was just lovely. The tour was lovely snacks and drinks included in the price, would definitely do this trip again on my next visit to this lovely island. Thank you vip toursWritten 24 August 2023
- MandyH1280 contributionsBeautiful catamaran, perfect hostsWe had an amazing sunset trip. Located lots of sealife then on for a swim stop and the sunset. Couldn’t have asked for more attentive hosts. It was a special treat for just 4 of us and it was perfect .. albeit my slight seasickness which is no one’s fault!Written 3 August 2023
- e l0 contributionsAmazing SightsI highly recommend this activity. We boarded the catamaran and immediately were greeted by the most gracious hosts. They offered us local cocktails as well as beer and wine. They had various sweet treats for us to try and sandwiches as well. We were able to see many dolphins as well as the highlight of our trip, a mother and baby dolphin swimming side by side. The boat is extremely clean ad the staff is very experienced. They even include pictures that they take and email to you about a week later free of charge. If you in Madeira it's a trip I wouldn't miss.Written 31 July 2023
- Connector5863310 contributionsIncredible Trip - Worth paying the Extra forMy wife booked this, I wondered why we were paying 70 euros for it, but boy am I glad we didn’t cut corners by going for a cheaper tour. The boat only has 17 guests, where as a rival boat had people packed in like sardines.We were constantly (it felt like, anyway) with nibbles and drinks during our trip, the staff were so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, of and we saw some dolphins as well, which were amazing!Written 23 June 2023
- Mickncyn880 contributionsVIP DOLPHINSAbsolutely brilliant, the crew were very attentive and friendly nothing to much trouble. Plenty of snacks and drinks. And Dolphins a plenty, would recommend to anyone 👍Written 30 May 2023
- Ted M0 contributionsvery pleasedMy wife and I enjoyed the tour immensely even though we didn't see any whales. We sat up top with the captain -- everybody else was at the bow. It felt like our own private cruise. The seating was very comfortable. The crew regularly offered food and drinks. We saw dolphins then later stopped for a swim. Eve though this cruise is more money it is worth it due to the comfort, cleanliness, food, drinks and especially the small number of guests.Written 24 May 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
1,002 reviews
Excellent
954
Very good
27
Average
7
Poor
2
Terrible
12
TheFireFairy
Leeds, UK45 contributions
Feb 2020
We had a really enjoyable afternoon with VIP Dolphins. The experienced crew were very professional and knowledgeable. We understand that you can’t control nature, and there was always the chance we may not see any whales or dolphins, but we felt that we were in very capable hands and if anyone could lead us to the animals it would be this crew. And sure enough, our first sighting was of pilot whales, and then almost immediately, a large group of bottle-nosed dolphins. Although less playful than the common dolphins, they still swam close by the boat and obligingly posed for some photos.
On the way back to harbour, we also met some common dolphins who came to say hello and show off their moves
The weather was perfect, the catamaran was spotless and the service was excellent and very friendly. There are certainly cheaper dolphin watching tours, but we thought VIP Dolphins offered an exceptional experience and great value for money overall.
We will definitely do another trip when we return to Madeira.
On the way back to harbour, we also met some common dolphins who came to say hello and show off their moves
The weather was perfect, the catamaran was spotless and the service was excellent and very friendly. There are certainly cheaper dolphin watching tours, but we thought VIP Dolphins offered an exceptional experience and great value for money overall.
We will definitely do another trip when we return to Madeira.
Written 20 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neiljones
2 contributions
Sept 2020 • Couples
We were booked on the speedboat trip but had to be rescheduled due to a problem with the boat. As an alternative we were offered the luxury catamaran trip which was an hour longer. We fell very lucky. Superb boat, only 8 customers on board, complimentary drinks and tasty little snacks. The two crew members were very knowledgable including the young biologist who doubled as a tour guide and waitress. We came across a fantastic pod of spotted dolphins who let us follow for a good 20 minutes, playing in front of the boat and even showing off. This trip would have been well worth the money the fact we paid less was a bonus although I did leave a well deserved tip.
Thanks
Neil & Suzanne (🇬🇧)
Thanks
Neil & Suzanne (🇬🇧)
Written 9 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steve Buckley
London, UK8,959 contributions
Sept 2021
My wife and myself are currently holidaying in Madeira and earlier today we went on the 3 hour afternoon (there is also a morning trip) VIP Dolphins Luxury Whale Watching trip which starts and finishes at the New Marina of Madeira which is not difficult to find.
The procedure is to report to the VIP Dolphins Booth at the Marina 10-15 mins before your departure time and then walk a short distance to where the Power Catamaran is moored. Once there, you are welcomed aboard by the all-female crew who looked after us and our fellow guests (no more than 17 on each trip which ensures plenty of room for everyone)makes for a most comfortable experience) extremely well from start to finish (including the supply of drinks and snacks).
Highlights of the trip were the excellent sea/weather conditions and the sighting of a large (100+) pod of dolphins (many with babies). Unfortunately, we did not come across any whales but if we had it would have been the icing on what had already proved a most delicious cake!
All in all, it was £50 per head very well spent - something I would strongly recommend to anyone wanting to go on a Dolphin/Whale Watching trip that certainly lives upto its name!!
The procedure is to report to the VIP Dolphins Booth at the Marina 10-15 mins before your departure time and then walk a short distance to where the Power Catamaran is moored. Once there, you are welcomed aboard by the all-female crew who looked after us and our fellow guests (no more than 17 on each trip which ensures plenty of room for everyone)makes for a most comfortable experience) extremely well from start to finish (including the supply of drinks and snacks).
Highlights of the trip were the excellent sea/weather conditions and the sighting of a large (100+) pod of dolphins (many with babies). Unfortunately, we did not come across any whales but if we had it would have been the icing on what had already proved a most delicious cake!
All in all, it was £50 per head very well spent - something I would strongly recommend to anyone wanting to go on a Dolphin/Whale Watching trip that certainly lives upto its name!!
Written 1 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Guest,
Thank You for choosing VipDolphins for your dolphin and whale watching tour!
We are happy that you were satisfied with your trip.
We deeply appreciate you taking the time to write us a review.
Hope to see you again!
Kind regards,
VipDolphins team
Written 28 January 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mike F
10 contributions
I researched these sort of trips and this read a very good experience, being max of 17 on board such a large craft really appealed.
It proved to be more than what we had expectations of.
From the moment we booked we were communicated with exceptionally well, from stepping on board everyone was treated on an individual basis. Yes there were very good quality drinks and nibbles that were a very good touch to enhance the vip experience, however we were there to experience the oceans habitat in a caring way. We were not disappointed, very soon we were amongst a pod of dolphins, amazing experience seeing them in natural habitat.
As we moved on we observed a second pod and then Loggerhead Turtle.
We then went to a sheltered Bay Area and had free swimming, so invigorating, has to be done.
The catamaran is a large luxury vessel, with so much space for everyone because of the 17 person limit, all facilities including toilets, a shower and private changing room to change after the must have swim.
Yes we do have to mention the whole crew, they enhanced everything ensuring you were individually treated from cushions, drinks, snacks, and importantly great well informed commentary information on the wildlife, views, in fact everything, first class crew, thank you.
So overall we did have a truly VIP experience that was excellent value for money.
It proved to be more than what we had expectations of.
From the moment we booked we were communicated with exceptionally well, from stepping on board everyone was treated on an individual basis. Yes there were very good quality drinks and nibbles that were a very good touch to enhance the vip experience, however we were there to experience the oceans habitat in a caring way. We were not disappointed, very soon we were amongst a pod of dolphins, amazing experience seeing them in natural habitat.
As we moved on we observed a second pod and then Loggerhead Turtle.
We then went to a sheltered Bay Area and had free swimming, so invigorating, has to be done.
The catamaran is a large luxury vessel, with so much space for everyone because of the 17 person limit, all facilities including toilets, a shower and private changing room to change after the must have swim.
Yes we do have to mention the whole crew, they enhanced everything ensuring you were individually treated from cushions, drinks, snacks, and importantly great well informed commentary information on the wildlife, views, in fact everything, first class crew, thank you.
So overall we did have a truly VIP experience that was excellent value for money.
Written 24 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
torimacke
Louisville, KY9 contributions
Sept 2023 • Solo
Every aspect was wonderful! The crew were knowledgable, engaging, and truly wanted everyone to have a good experience. The smaller crowd was worth the higher fee compared to other cruise options. They greet you with sparkling wine once you're aboard and continue to serve you drinks and snacks the entire 3 hours . We saw several dolphin during our cruise, with a few bow surfing with our boat for a few minutes. It was truly amazing. The sunset was beautiful and we were offered the opportunity to swim in the ocean for a bit. On the way back, we had a clear night with a full moon - lovely experience - highly recommend!
Written 4 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wccc45
Evesham, UK18 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
We absolutely loved this trip. We took the evening tour with sunset views and we couldn't be happier. The crew too great care of us and are very forthcoming with refreshments, knowledgeable about the animals and a skilled Captain that gave us no concerns about the sailing.
We managed to see a load of dolphins and a stunning sunset which gave us loads of photo opportunities.
My fiance is also pregnant and the crew made sure she was comfortable and also allowed us to board as the weather conditions were all fine. The land staff had explained to us that if they were a little rough then we couldn't go ... But one last call to the crew before we boarded confirmed there was no concerns for safety.
Highly, highly recommend!! Thank you VIP Dolphins for an unforgettable experience and great value.
We managed to see a load of dolphins and a stunning sunset which gave us loads of photo opportunities.
My fiance is also pregnant and the crew made sure she was comfortable and also allowed us to board as the weather conditions were all fine. The land staff had explained to us that if they were a little rough then we couldn't go ... But one last call to the crew before we boarded confirmed there was no concerns for safety.
Highly, highly recommend!! Thank you VIP Dolphins for an unforgettable experience and great value.
Written 3 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Keithd001
UK95 contributions
Sept 2022
A brilliant trip! Cannot fault it in any way. The crew were amazing and friendly from start to finish, very attentive and extremely knowledgeable
Sure you can spend €30 and get a cheaper trip but you won't get the exclusivity the VIP Dolphins offer. A max of 17 people on board so you're made to feel special from the moment you step aboard. Water, snacks and other refreshments are available throughout the trip, all part of the package, so there's no hidden costs or surprises. Totally worth that little bit extra. And how often would you get to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment?
100% recommended.
Sure you can spend €30 and get a cheaper trip but you won't get the exclusivity the VIP Dolphins offer. A max of 17 people on board so you're made to feel special from the moment you step aboard. Water, snacks and other refreshments are available throughout the trip, all part of the package, so there's no hidden costs or surprises. Totally worth that little bit extra. And how often would you get to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment?
100% recommended.
Written 7 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
neil h
United Kingdom51 contributions
Great crew, very attentive and informative. Within a hour we were in a big group of pilot whales and a few dolphins, good close up views. Lady hostess, sorry didn’t get her names was very expert on dolphins and whales, and later under the soaring cliffs of Cabo de Girao showed her knowledge of geology too.
Great hospitality too.
Great hospitality too.
Written 9 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
heike
2 contributions
Sept 2021 • Solo
Perfect day,
beautiful , safe , clean catamaran. The guides where friendly and gave very good informations about Madeira, the other islands and the animals.We hat nice snacks and drinks at at least we saw.plenty of whales and dolphins.
3 perfect hours with only 16 more people, not 50 or more we have seen on other boats.
beautiful , safe , clean catamaran. The guides where friendly and gave very good informations about Madeira, the other islands and the animals.We hat nice snacks and drinks at at least we saw.plenty of whales and dolphins.
3 perfect hours with only 16 more people, not 50 or more we have seen on other boats.
Written 15 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Guest,
Thank You for choosing VipDolphins for your dolphin and whale watching tour!
We are happy that you were satisfied with your trip.
We deeply appreciate you taking the time to write us a review.
Hope to see you again!
Kind regards,
VipDolphins team
Written 28 January 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Compass766280
12 contributions
Absolutely blown away with this trip, we chose because we wanted a more intimate experience than jammed full of people on the other boats. It was so worth it, there were 12 others on board and 3 very attentive crew. The marine biologist was so informative as we cruised a few miles out from shore to see a pod of pilot whales their spotter had seen. Wow!! They were generous with the drinks(included in price) and the local snacks. Perfect way to spend an afternoon. I would highly recommend it. The crew were amazing. We are going to do another trip with them next week!! 😁
Written 23 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good afternoon. Is it possible to order an individual tour on a good yacht with drinks and snacks for 3-6 people? how much will it cost for 3-4 hours? we plan to be in Funchal from 9.08-18.08. What day is it possible?
Written 4 July 2024
Hi there , I’d like to book for a visit in July but no dates available yet . Can you confirm when dates will become available so I can book . Many thanks Sonia
Written 3 May 2024
Ja volgens mij moet dat kunnen er is ruimte en toegankelijkheid genoeg, alleen weet ik niet wat hun voorwaarden zijn, anders een telefoontje eraan wagen zou ik zeggen.
Written 11 August 2022
It sais 'not recommended for pregnant women'. Why is this exactly? I am pregnant (4 months) and I would like to book this activity, obviously I would stay quietly on the boat. Thank you
Written 8 July 2022
Hi
This will be our first time to Madeira and would love to book this.
Our only apprehension is how to get to this location from our hotel (Pestana Royal).
Any advice would be appreciated!
Written 5 July 2022
We were on the opposite side of the island, so used a taxi. They were on time to collect us both there and back. Hope you get to do it.
Written 7 July 2022
It sais 'not recommended for pregnant women'. Why is this exactly?
Written 2 June 2022
Do you allow 2 years old on the boat? Thanks
Written 6 March 2022
Bonjour j’aurai un bébé de 2 mois et demi qui restera dans la cabine avec quelqu un dans les bras
Cela est il autorise ?
Written 5 January 2022
Jenny R
Helsinki, Finland
Will you be having tours in Jan 2022? Your booking schedule doesn't show any openings.
Written 3 January 2022
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