Dolphin & whale watching by luxury catamaran in Funchal | VIP DOLPHINS
There is a NEW luxury experience in Funchal! It’s organised by the company VIP DOLPHINS and the goal is to go dolphin & whale watching aboard the Ultimate – a luxury catamaran, all-inclusive.
Last month, I had the opportunity to experience it myself 🙂
-How was the experience?
It was great! We saw lots of dolphins, two sperm whales and two turtles.
What’s more, this catamaran is so stylish!
– How long is the trip on the VIP DOLPHINS luxury catamaran?
The Dolphin & Whale Watching trip takes about 3 hours. The meeting point is in the new marina, near the Praça do Povo, in front of the “OceanSee” kiosk, but you should attend 15 minutes before departure. The usual route goes to Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe and returns to Funchal.
Meeting Point
Cabo Girão
– Can you always spot dolphins on the VIP DOLPHINS luxury catamaran?
Apparently we can see them in 98% of the trips, but in any case, they offer a second free trip if that does not happen. If the weather does not allow the trip, they contact the customer to issue a refund or reschedule.
– How many people were aboard the VIP DOLPHINS luxury catamaran
We were just a few, since it is only for restricted groups, a maximum of 17 people (besides the staff) – that makes the whole experience much more pleasant, plus there is more visibility.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by their certified marine biologists. They are involved in research programs such as Cetus Project, plus they also report to Madeira’s Natural Parque. One of the Marine Biologists is also making her own research on the impact that boat motors might have on dolphins behaviours.
Along the trip they talked to each of us to explain some natural behaviours and curiosities about the species of dolphins and whales that we can find in Madeira. Maria, Dominique, Ruben and Pedro were very friendly and attentive, always available for any request. They also take some photos if we wish, which they send later by email, for FREE.
(Wi-fi is also FREE onboard)
– Are drinks or snacks paid?
There’s an open bar for free during the whole trip, whether you prefer alcoholic drinks or not. I was greeted with a glass of champagne and they also serve typical snacks like caco bread, “pastéis de nata”, cookies and ice creams for free.
Cute 🙂
– What dolphins and whales do you see aboard the VIP DOLPHINS luxury catamaran?
I was on the flybridge when we started to spot some bottlenose dolphins. As we approached, we saw jumps and pirouettes, it was incredible !! We also saw two whales, they were sperm whales. I was impressed with the size of their heads, what a beauty! We also saw two sea turtles, passing by.
-Can you swim?
Yes, plus snorkelling equipment is available for free. You can also take a shower onboard afterwards if you wish since the bathrooms are well equipped. Flip flops are available if you need – another nice detail of VIP Dolphins.
– How is it different from other catamaran tours you’ve done?
The experience has a different concept, more exclusive. We get the feeling of being on a friend’s yacht, listening to chill out music, in between conversation, relaxing, eating and drinking.
In addition, the luxury catamaran has different areas where you can circulate, both inside and outside, with sofas, tables and comfortable puffs. It also has 4 bedrooms, if you want to rent it for a full day (to go to Porto Santo for example) or to spend a day at the sea with a group of friends. (Check here the prices.)
Every Dolphin and Whale watching tour is a surprise, no two experiences are the same. Watching dolphins, whales or sea turtles in the ocean is always special, but in that luxurious ambience it’s even better, more relaxing – we can see everything without stress.
After an afternoon in the middle of the ocean, with a privileged view over Funchal, I felt peace and gratitude.
Thank you to VIP Dolphins for giving me this opportunity to go dolphin and whale watching in Madeira.
– Useful information
Cost*
Adults – € 75, Children: from 2 to 5 years old – Free, Children: from 6 to 15 years old – € 40
*Book here and use the code “madeiratomars” to get a 20% discount ! 🙂
It includes snacks and drinks, champagne on board, Wi-fi, photo report and snorkelling equipment.
Schedules*
Every day from April 1 to October 31 *:
9h-12h | 13h-16h | 4:15 PM-7: 15PM
From Monday to Saturday, from November 1 to March 31 *:
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | 1:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Reservations*
Tel: +351 924 438 001 | E-mail: oceanopioneiro@gmail.com |Website: https://vipdolphins.com
*Book here and use the code “madeiratomars” to get a 20% discount !! 🙂
*Information in June 2019
Disclaimer: This article has been supported by VIP DOLPHINS, but the opinions expressed here are my own.
