Private Whale Watching Cruise from Calheta, Madeira
Set sail from Calheta on a private cruise to spot whales with a marine biologist. Discover Madeira’s wildlife and enjoy an exclusive, expert-led experience!
Practical information
Depart from Calheta on an exclusive private charter for an unforgettable whale-watching experience!
- Expert crew and marine biologist on board to share their knowledge with you.
- Up to 5 participants for maximum comfort.
Course of events
- Arrive at the meeting point (nearby paid parking or free street parking available).
- Meet your crew.
- Board the boat for a safety briefing and an introduction to the activity (personal belongings can be stored in the cabin, safe and dry).
- Start the navigation to admire the coast of Madeira from the ocean.
- Look for wildlife with live commentary and insights from your guide.
- If you have the chance to spot wildlife, observe cetaceans for 10 minutes per group (in compliance with local regulations).
- Jump into the water for a swimming break (minimum 10 minutes but the duration is adjusted to maritime conditions).
- Enjoy a fresh drink on board while you relax and sunbathe.
- Return to the shore at the initial meeting point.
- End of the activity.
- Receive your souvenir photos via WeTransfer in the following days.
Activity requirements
Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the departure time. Participants who arrive late will not be able to participate and will be charged the full price of the cruise.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Maximum weight per person is 110 kg / 242 lbs.
All participants must know how to swim to go into the water and snorkel. Guests are welcome to stay on the boat if they prefer not to go swimming.
Special terms
Since wildlife is unpredictable, their presence is never guaranteed.
Please note that the duration and itinerary of the activity are weather-dependent. For safety reasons, upon the decision of our captain, tours may be rescheduled or canceled in case of adverse weather or sea conditions. Decisions to delay departure or to cancel a cruise can be made until departure time for safety reasons. In such cases, guests will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Rescheduling options are subject to availability.
Pets are not permitted to join in this activity.
Please inform your instructor of any medical conditions when booking.
There is no wheelchair access on the boats.
The snorkelling gear (goggles and tubes) are available for children sizes.
Spoken languages:
Portuguese, EnglishIncluded
- Bottled mineral water
- Fresh drinks including local beer
- Portuguese Sparkling wine
- Life jacket
- Bathing towels
- Pictures
- Snorkelling gear (masks, tubes and fins)
- Noodle-shaped floaters
Excluded
- Transportation to the meeting point
Do not forget to bring
- Comfortable clothing
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat / Cap
- Swimwear
- Snacks
- Light jacket
| Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Loading… | |||||||

Is this a gift?
Practical information
Meeting point:
Spoken languages:
Portuguese, EnglishCancellation: Super flexible
Weather guarantee:
Free rescheduling or refund if the activity must be cancelled due to bad weather.100% Secure payment:
By credit card or PaypalA team of experts:
Here to assist you 7/7About the activity
Embark on a private cruise to see whales and dolphins on a yacht from Calheta! If you are staying on Madeira Island, come and join On Tales on this private tour to spot marine wildlife while enjoying the stunning Portuguese coastline. On Tales has a strong focus on sustainability (Blue Flag since 2019) and a deep respect for the animals.
Setting sail from Calheta, you will board a comfortable charter limited to just 5 passengers to ensure an intimate, safe, and premium experience. As the boat cruises into the Atlantic Ocean, you'll have the perfect vantage point to admire Madeira’s rugged shores. The exploration is assisted by a land-based spotter to help find a few of the 26 to 29 species of cetaceans found here throughout the year. The passionate guides will share fascinating insights and anecdotes about main species like Bottlenose Dolphins, Pilot Whales, Common Dolphins, and Spotted Dolphins, as well as sightings of turtles and various sea birds like the Cory's Shearwater.
The adventure also includes an opportunity to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear Atlantic. For those who dare, you can jump into the ocean, with water temperatures ranging from a mild 17–18°C in the winter (November to March) to a tropical 25–26°C at the peak of summer (July and August).
For those who prefer to stay dry, you can remain on board to sunbathe, relax, and enjoy a refreshing drink while admiring the rocky bottoms and clear waters.
Don't miss out: embark on this unforgettable private whale and dolphin watching boat tour from Calheta today!