Portugal · DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING

Dolphin & Whale Watching in Portugal: The 15 Best Trips

50 tours  ·  from $34

Resident dolphins off Madeira and the southern coast, migrating whales through the Azores in spring. The 15 below are priced and clear about sighting rates, boat size and what happens when the sea is too rough to sail.

Albufeira: 2.5-Hour Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching - São Rafael, Castelo, Galé, and Salgados
Algarve Tours, Benagil Cave Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in the Algarve, Dolphin Watching, Tour Reviews

Albufeira: 2.5-Hour Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching

1.2.5-Hour Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 10,710 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $40Our pick

Set out from Albufeira Marina on a 2.5-hour speedboat cruise with guides such as Christian, Danny, or Johnny. See beaches, arches, and Benagil Cave, pause for a swim if conditions allow, then search for wild dolphins with a marine biologist on board.

“An interesting experience. I especially enjoyed the return trip, visiting hidden caves and sailing up to the cliffs. I enjoyed that the most. I recommend it.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour - Setting out from Albufeira Marina
Algarve Tours, Benagil Cave Tours, Boat Tours in the Algarve, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in the Algarve, Dolphin Watching, Tour Reviews, Tours

Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

2.Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 6,316 reviews · 2 - 2.5 hours · from $40

Cruise from Albufeira along 18 kilometers of Algarve coast to Benagil, with a short swim stop and dolphin search. Guides such as Ana and skippers including Ruben add local insight and confident boat handling. Choose a shared small-group or private departure.

“brilliant loved it got to see loads of dolphins 🐬 😀”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching - Choosing the Best Place on the Catamaran
Boat Tours in Madeira, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Dolphin Watching, Madeira Tours, Sailing, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

From Funchal: Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

3.Ecological Catamaran Dolphin Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 5,771 reviews · from $40

From Funchal Marina, you’ll sail offshore on Magic Dolphin’s 2022 hybrid-electric catamaran, guided in English or Portuguese. Look for dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds, then pause near Cabo Girão for a swim before cruising back along Madeira’s cliffs.

“I didn't think I would see the dolphins that close, it was a magical moment, I would highly recommend!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise - Three hours of searching Madeira’s blue water
Boat Tours in Madeira, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Dolphin Watching, Madeira Tours, Sailing, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

4.Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 5,697 reviews · 3 hours · from $41

From Funchal Marina, you’ll spend three hours scanning Madeira’s coast for dolphins, whales, turtles, and flying fish aboard the spacious Seaborn Catamaran. A live guide speaks English and Portuguese, and summer trips usually include a swim stop beneath Cabo Girão. Drinks and snacks cost extra.

“It was amazing! We got to see dolphins and then we got to swim the water was perfect amd the guides very a very fun and nice bunch! I didnt get their names but it was one of the 3pms tour 👌🏾🥳”

Check availability →Read our full review

Albufeira: Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave - Entering Benagil Cave by Boat
Algarve Tours, Benagil Cave Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in the Algarve, Dolphin Watching, Tour Reviews

Albufeira: Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave

5.Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 5,658 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $34Best value

Set out from Albufeira Marina with a multilingual XRide crew for a 2.5-hour coastal cruise. You will search for wild dolphins, visit Benagil and other sea caves, hear coastal commentary, and may swim from the boat if conditions allow. Bring layers, sunscreen, a towel, and a jacket.

“The guides were really funny and friendly. Very informative and knowledgeable.”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Ponta Delgada: Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip - Starting at Portas do Mar in Ponta Delgada
Azores Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in the Azores, Dolphin Watching, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

From Ponta Delgada: Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip

6.Whale and Dolphin Watching Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 4,109 reviews · 3 hours · from $82

Leave Ponta Delgada with Futurismo Azores Adventures for a three-hour search for whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds. A marine biologist explains Azorean sea life and respectful viewing rules. Choose a catamaran for comfort or a Zodiac for a closer, faster ride. English and Portuguese tours are available.

“The tour was amazing. Because I captain decided not to stop at the dolphins we got the chance to see a curious sperm whale up close all by ourselves. The male came to about half a meter to our boat and looked at us curiously. What a thrill. After that we saw two more sperm whales, one sei whale, Atlantic spotted dolphins and common dolphins.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Lisbon: Tagus River Cruise to the Ocean & Dolphin Watching - Finding Estação Fluvial Sul e Sueste
Boat Tours in Lisbon, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Lisbon, Dolphin Watching, Lisbon Tours, River Cruises, River Cruises in Lisbon, Tour Reviews

Lisbon: Tagus River Cruise to the Ocean & Dolphin Watching

7.Tagus River Cruise to the Ocean & Dolphin Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 3,019 reviews · from $38

Cruise from Estação Fluvial Sul e Sueste along the Tagus and out to the Atlantic with a live guide in English, French, or Portuguese. You’ll pass Belém Tower, Christ the King, Bugio Fort, and beaches near Cascais while searching for wild dolphins. Drinks are included, but sightings are never guaranteed.

“everything went Well. Guide was very friendly and told us a lot about lisbon history also. we saw dolphins, which can't Be guaranteed in trips like These, but we were lucky. would reccommend!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Albufeira: Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave Boat Cruise - Along the Algarve cliffs, beaches, and rock formations
Algarve Tours, Benagil Cave Tours, Boat Tours in the Algarve, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in the Algarve, Dolphin Watching, Tour Reviews

Albufeira: Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave Boat Cruise

8.Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave Boat Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 3,008 reviews · from $38

Set out from Albufeira Marina on a semi-rigid boat with a skipper and marine biologist. Search for wild dolphins, enter coastal caves when sea conditions permit, admire Alfanzina Lighthouse, and stop to swim if conditions are safe. Guides speak English and Portuguese.

“Got to see dolphins! Guide was informative and funny, highly recommended”

Check availability →Read our full review

All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour - The Secret Stop and Madeira Snacks
Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Dolphin Watching, Madeira Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, VIP, Whale Watching

All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

9.All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,573 reviews · 3 hours · from $93

Sail from Funchal aboard a spacious luxury catamaran with a small group, crew such as Liv, David, Bruno, and Maggie, and a welcome glass of sparkling wine. Look for whales, dolphins, and turtles, then swim beneath Cabo Girão with local snacks and unlimited drinks included.

“Wonderful morning out on the water. Top notch service from this Crew. Highly recommend”

Check availability →Read our full review

Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour - The RIB ride and what the three hours feel like
Azores Tours, Boat Tours in the Azores, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in the Azores, Tour Reviews, Tours, Whale Watching

Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour

10.Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 2,146 reviews · from $70

From Vila Franca do Campo Marina, join Terra Azul’s biologist-led search for whales, dolphins, turtles, birds, and fish. Guides such as Frida, Sanne, and Alexandra explain local species while the RIB covers open water, then circles the volcanic Princess Ring Islet. Bring water, sunscreen, and seasickness tablets.

“Fantastic. Knowledgeable guides who follow an ethical approach. Lots of fun, exhilarating and educational. Was perfect for the whole family.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran - How the land-based spotters improve your chances
Boat Tours in Madeira, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Dolphin Watching, Madeira Tours, Sailing, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

11.Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,957 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $42

Join Magic Dolphin in Funchal for a 2.5 to 3-hour cruise aboard a 2022 hybrid-electric catamaran. Certified guides explain Madeira’s dolphins, whales, and ocean ecology while land-based spotters guide the boat toward wildlife. The return route passes Cabo Girão and Câmara de Lobos.

“Best way to see dolphins and whales in Madeira in their natural environment, excellent boat tour respecting the wildlife and providing lots of information and getting as close as possible safely”

Check availability →Read our full review

Lisbon: Dolphin Watching with Marine Biologist - Meeting the boat at Doca de Santo Amaro
Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Lisbon, Dolphin Watching, Lisbon Tours, Tour Reviews

Lisbon: Dolphin Watching with Marine Biologist

12.Dolphin Watching with Marine Biologist

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 1,853 reviews · 3 hours · from $76

Join SeaEO Tours at Doca de Santo Amaro for a three-hour RIB boat trip led by marine biologists such as Bart, Sara, Sid, or Cidonio. Look for dolphins, porpoises, sunfish, seabirds, and other wildlife, then return past Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Discoveries Monument.

“Extremly good value for your money!!! Everything was perfect. We saw a lot of dolphins, it was amazing!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran - Finding the boat at Pier 8
Boat Tours in Madeira, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Dolphin Watching, Madeira Tours, Sailing, Tour Reviews, VIP, Whale Watching

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran

13.Dolphin and Whale Watching by Luxury Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,709 reviews · 3 hours · from $47

Join Magic Dolphin Atividades Maritimas for a three-hour catamaran cruise from Funchal. Portuguese and English-speaking guides explain Madeira’s whales, dolphins, birds, and turtles as you sail toward Cabo Girão. Choose shaded indoor seats or outdoor nets, with a welcome drink and seasonal swim stop included.

“Absolutely loved this trip, the chap speaking to us about the wildlife found off the coast was incredibly knowledgeable. Really good value for money. And we saw a group of dolphins up close! You also get a free drink included which was a nice touch. Would definitely go back to this company again!”

Check availability →Read our full review

VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching - Looking for dolphins and pilot whales
Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Madeira Tours, Tour Reviews, VIP, Whale Watching

VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

14.VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,709 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $95Top rated

Sail from Funchal with a maximum of 17 people aboard a modern catamaran. The crew, which may include Sheila, Liv, Maggie, Francisco, Nico, or Chico, serves drinks, snacks, and local treats while you look for dolphins and whales. Finish with swimming and snorkeling beneath Cabo Girao.

“Fantastic afternoon, well worth doing. The drinks flowed the nibbles we're lovely the staff were Fabulous & couldn't do enough & the dolphins were so amazing.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour - Leaving Funchal and searching for wildlife
Boat Tours in Madeira, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Whale Watching, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Madeira, Dolphin Watching, Evening Experiences, Madeira Tours, Sailing, Tour Reviews, Tours, Whale Watching

Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

15.Dolphin and Whale Watching Sunset Sailing Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,642 reviews · from $63

Sail from Funchal in a small yacht carrying up to 20 people, looking for dolphins, whales, and sea turtles up to 3 miles offshore. Stop near Cabo Girão for swimming or snorkeling, then enjoy the sunset with an onboard drink. Guides may include Bruno, Roberto, José, or Marco.

“Great experience! We wanted to try sailing boat instead of catamaran and it was a great choice. The sail was quite swinging, but that was exactly what we were looking for. We saw dolphins, we swam in the ocean near the cliffs of Cabo Girão. Timing was also great, cause you have opportunity to swim in the golden hour and see sunset as well. Unfortunately it was cloudy so we didn't see the sun at all, but obviously it's impossible to guarantee beautiful weather. Nevertheless we enjoyed it and we wouldn't chose different company. Thank you! J&KRead more”

Check availability →Read our full review

Scroll to Top

Explore Portugal

Pick a coast, a cellar or a cliff.