Madeira · MADEIRA SUNSET CRUISES
16 reviewed
This is the shortlist we would hand a friend: the 15 madeira sunset cruises worth booking, each with its price, its traveller verdict, and the one thing to know before you commit.
Sail off Funchal at sunset with Cabo Girão swimming, snorkeling gear, and an open bar. Chance to spot dolphins or whales.
“Lovely sunset trip with an opportunity for a swim. Guides told us a lot about Madeira and game loads of tips where to eat and walks/ hikes around. Highly recommend”
3-hour Madeira sunset catamaran from Funchal with dolphin and whale watching, a swim at Cabo Girão, and a bar for €4 poncha.
“Excellent value for money. Saw a pod of Pilot Whales which was very exciting and interesting. Good vibe on the boat, apart from the stupid people feeding the seagulls, enticed them to dive bomb the boat.”
Sunset on Madeira from Pico do Arieiro with a small-group minibus. Optional Stairway to Heaven and Ninho da Manta viewpoints.
“Everything was clear and straightforward. Was able to see the sunset luckily. Pedro was an amazing driver and guide”
Sunset on a traditional Madeira boat from Funchal, with drinks, a Cabo Girão cruise, and a swim stop in protected waters.
“Fantastic tour. I went on my own and chose this one as it's a smaller boat so it doesn't feel overwhelming or crowded. The sunset was beautiful, it was a lovely atmosphere- equal mix of peaceful and fun. The hosts were brilliant, kept the wine topped up the whole trip and gave us a great dinner recommendation for after! Overall the perfect start to my trip”
A 4-hour Madeira sunset dinner cruise with hotel pickup, traditional buffet, free drinks, and a swim stop at Calhau da Lapa.
“Amazing experience with amazing guides. We saw dolphins, a whale, and a seal! It’s a family business and they are so accommodating. The food is amazing, and they make it themselves! Could not recommend this more!”
Private Madeira sunset cruise from Funchal with Cabo Gírao views, Câmara de Lobos, and sparkling wine plus snacks.
“We were a group of 8 friends and we had an amazing time! We truly recommend this 2h30 trip around Madeira coast line :) The sunset was breathtaking!”
A 3-hour Madeira sunset catamaran from Funchal to Cabo Girão with a snorkeling stop and a chance to spot dolphins and whales.
“de vazut balene sau delfini nici nu se pune problema sa fi vazut ceva...singura placere a fost plimbarea la apus si un pahar cu vin... sa nu fiti dezamagiti daca nu vedeti nimic, poate altii au avut mai mult noroc...”
Catamaran sunset cruise from Funchal with live commentary, possible dolphins or whales, a short swim stop, and scenic coastline.
“A experiência foi incrível, realmente vimos os golfinhos bem de perto, paramos pra nadar, o barco tem música e bebidas a venda. Única ressalva é pra volta que é feita numa velocidade muito rápida e a tendência de enjoar é maior. Mas quem pega um passeio de barco sabe que está sujeito a enjoos.”
Drive up Madeira’s highest car-accessible summit for sunset above the clouds, with optional Stairway to Heaven views.
“We came from Calheta and it was a long drive!!! But it was worth every minute. The sunset was spectacular and no picture could do it Justice. You are over the clouds and looks like you are in heaven. We did not have dinner.”
Sunset catamaran from Funchal to Cabo Girão with a swim stop and snorkeling gear. 3 hours, $40, bar on board.
“it was a wonderful sunset trip. worth every minute of the 3 hour trip. beautiful sea views, and at Cabo Girão, spectacular sunset. we also had the blessing to witness pilot whales. GOD’s creation is amazing. we got to swim near Cabo Girão, the water was so lovely, warm, clear and clean. amazing crew as well. very cheerful, caring, polite. as a family, we loved the experience. we most definitely recommend to everyone to add this sunset trip to your “what to do in Madeira” list!”
4-hour Madeira 4x4 safari from Funchal with Curral das Freiras, Pico do Areeiro (1818 m), viewpoints, and a sunset over the city.
“We had an amazing experience on Madeira! Our guide, Paulo, was absolutely outstanding — incredibly attentive, passionate about what he does, and always making sure everyone felt safe and comfortable. He took us to breathtaking viewpoints, introduced us to delicious local bakery treats, and made the entire day unforgettable. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We are very grateful. We highly recommend this tour and especially Paulo!”
Sunset hike from Funchal to Pico do Arieiro, Ninho da Manta, and the Stairway to Heaven for small-group cloudline views.
“The views are simply unlike any other! I am a novice hiker and took my time to hike as the rocks were rather slippery that day as it had rained the previous day. The pick up was efficient and on time and Luis is a very friendly and informative tour guide. Highly recommend!”
4x4 sunset tour from Funchal to Pico do Arieiro for cloudtop colors, night views, and small-group guide attention with hotel pickup.
“The sunset trip with Hugo was phenomenal! We loved it so much. The views are breathtaking and we really enjoyed Hugos company, his knowledge and passion. Thank you, Hit the Road Madeira for making our first day on the island so special. We would highly recommend this trip to everyone visiting Madeira.”
Sunset cruise from Funchal with hotel pickup, dinner buffet, and a swim stop at Calhau da Lapa. Drinks served on board.
“Awesome service, views, and dinner. We were able to see pilot whales and dolphins. The crew was friendly and welcoming.”
A small-group Xavelha sunset cruise from Funchal with Cabo Girão cliffs, a swim stop, local snacks, stories, and golden light over Madeira.
“I highly recommend this activity. The boat is magnificent. We were lucky; we were alone on the boat with our guides. The fact that few people are allowed on board adds a lot of charm to this outing, far from the tourist boats. They are both very kind and take their work to heart. It's great to support small local businesses and preserve traditions. There are island fruits and drinks to enjoy. The sunset over the ocean is magnificent and well worth it. Thank you again for a wonderful evening. Obrigado pelas suas explicações e por esta viagem marítima, nós adoramos. Katia and Simon”
