Charter operator

Magic Dolphin Atividades Maritimas Lda

Funchal, Portugal

50+ reviews

Madeira Marlin - Balancal is run by Magic Dolphin Atividades Maritimas Lda, specializing in excellent game fishing and incredible customer services. Their captains are experienced, passionate, and will do everything to provide their customers with an incredible fishing experience. Born in the Madeira, Captain Fabio Abreu grew up on the sea, surrounded with boats and fishing. He used to worked many years in Magic Dolphin Catamaran, but his heart was always in fishing. When opportunity came, we did not think twice about putting Fabio in charge of Balancal big game fishing. He is one of the top captains in the area, specializing in pelagics.

Charter

Madeira Fun Fishing

Funchal

Instant Confirmation

Trips from

US $179

Rating

4.8

62 reviews

4.8

Boat & Equipment

4.9

Captain & Crew

4.6

Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (48)

What anglers say

93%

Good experience

98%

Friendly captain

90%

Recommend this charter

76%

Appropriate for children

98%

Satisfied with the boat

42%

Caught fish

All reviews (62)

Showing 1 – 5 of 62 reviews

Corné Hendrickx
Spain
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
NEW
An Amazing Experience
Special 7 hours trip for Corné Hendrickx on October 22, 2026 • 4 adults
What an absolutely fantastic day we had! Even though we unfortunately didn’t catch any fish, it was still an unforgettable experience! And that was all thanks to David and Fabi! What incredible people! From the very first moment, they created such a wonderful atmosphere on board. Their enthusiasm, kindness, humor, and passion for fishing made this day truly special. They did everything they could to help us land a great catch, but that’s fishing! And luckily, a day like this is about so much more than just catching fish! To top it all off, we even got to see dolphins swimming in the wild! 🐬 Such a beautiful moment that made an already amazing day even more special. David and Fabi, thank you so much for your dedication, great company, and wonderful hospitality. You proved that even without catching a single fish, you can still leave the boat with a huge smile on your face! We would highly recommend this experience to absolutely everyone, and we will definitely be back! Hopefully, next time with a big catch! 🎣❤️
Florian Thomas
Repeat angler
Lehre-Wendhausen, Germany
Member since 2023
6 trips
4.7
Verified
Super friendly crew and well-equipped boat – highly recommend!
Exclusive Full Day Big Game Fishing on September 18, 2026 • 2 adults
Unfortunately, we didn’t catch any fish, but still had a nice day. The captain and the first mate were super friendly, highly competent, and made sure I had a great time throughout the entire trip. The boat is well-equipped with everything you needed. Even though the fish weren’t biting, the overall experience was excellent. I would definitely book with them again!
Patrik Alriksson
Repeat angler
Sweden
Member since 2025
2 trips
4.7
Verified
Great charter!
Exclusive Big Game Fishing (PM) on August 10, 2026 • 2 adults
I would highly recommend this charter! We spent an evening fishing for big game. The fishing was slow unfortunately. However the capitän and crew was great and was doing everything correctly. Also the fishin gear was real professional and well maintained, with good lines and leaders. Next time we hope to catch a grander :) Patrik
Response from Charter operator
August 11, 2026
Thank you so much for the great review and recommendation, Patrik! Unfortunately, the fishing was a little slow that evening, but that’s all part of the nature of big game fishing. We're really glad you appreciated the hard work of the crew and the quality of our fishing equipment. Hopefully next time that grander finds its way onto the end of the line! We’d love to have you back onboard. Best wishes, Balancal Big Game Fishing
Brendan Masterson
Ireland
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Once in a lifetime experience
Exclusive Big Game Fishing (PM) on September 8, 2026 • 6 adults
The guys on the boat bring great vibes and a fun experience. We caught a large Marlin when we were out and I don’t think in life there are many things that top that excitement. Great time had by all of us
Reported catch:
Response from Charter operator
September 15, 2026
Thank you so much for the fantastic review, Brendan! Catching a large marlin is certainly a moment to remember, and we’re delighted we could be part of such an exciting experience. We’ll pass your kind words on to the crew. It was a pleasure having you onboard, and the crew also had a great time. Congratulations again on an incredible catch! Best wishes, Balancal Big Game Fishing
Griffin Sassano
Repeat angler
Illinois, US
Member since 2019
4 trips
5.0
Verified
Great day on the water despite no bites
Exclusive Morning Big Game Fishing on August 8, 2026 • 1 adult
Captain Fabio and First Mate Davide were wonderful and did everything they could to get me on the fish. Both super friendly and wealths of fishing knowledge and experiences. Would definitely recommend anyone fish with them .
Response from Charter operator
August 11, 2026
Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We're really glad you had such a great experience out on the water with Captain Fabio and First Mate David. I'll be sure to pass your kind words on to them. They always work hard to give our guests the best possible fishing experience. Thank you again for the recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back onboard Balancal for another fishing adventure in Madeira! Best wishes, Balancal Big Game Fishing