Our top-5 activities on the water
As Madeira is surrounded by the Atlantic ocean, this comes with many opportunities to explore. There’s a lot of marine wildlife around the island to discover in a respectful way. And even on the island there are exciting water related activities….

5. Canyoning
Highlights: exploring Madeira’s waterfalls and rough nature by canyoning is absolutely stunning!
Kids-proof factor: we did the intermediate tour without kids, but there’s also a family tour available
Insider tip: this activity is also nice on a cloudy day because you’re active all the time
📍 Location Pin: 32.725202039685776, -16.96153985680906
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: P2GQ+23 Curral das Freiras, Portugal

4. Kayak Experience
Highlights: it’s great to explore the impressive west-coast of Ponta de São Lourenço from the water
Kids-proof factor: a boat brings you to the spot where you start. We both had one kid in our kayak which was absolutely fine.
Insider tip: if the sea is rough better to wait for another day
📍 Location Pin: 32.74187905141476, -16.70986158935413
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: P7RQ+MR Caniçal, Portugal

3. Eco Catamaran
Highlights: a great way to explore the wildlife in the ocean. When sea life arrives, the electric engines engage for silent emission-free cruising which helps keep the cetaceans very happy
Kids-proof factor: nice experience with kids, there’s even a possibility to swim / snorkel during the tour
Insider tip: if you’re lying on the net on the front of the boat, don’t be surprised by a refreshing splash!
📍 Location Pin: 32.64634982862637, -16.907320605211996
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: J3WR+9J Funchal, Portugal

2. Luv sailing
Highlights: exploring the island with a private sailing boat is truly magical
Kids-proof factor: the kids really enjoyed it, they could even steer for a bit. And we had a refreshing plunge!
Insider tip: we did the sunset trip which we could highly recommend
📍 Location Pin: 32.64591905186037, -16.908865477722568
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: J3WR+77 Funchal, Portugal

1. Santa Maria de Colombo
Highlights: this boat is a replica of the ship Christopher Colombus used to explore the world
Kids-proof factor: the whole boat is in pirate theme and kids get a pirate certificate afterwards. We saw many dolphins during our trip!
Insider tip: bring your swimming gear a there will be a stop for a plundge
📍 Location Pin: 32.645817984213544, -16.908379748886187
🗺️ Google Maps: [Open in Maps (Link)]
🧩 Plus Code: J3WR+7C Funchal, Portugal