Whale and dolphin watching in Madeira
When and where to see whales and dolphins in Madeira, which species you can meet in each season, how to choose a responsible operator, and what a trip is like.
The sea floor drops away steeply around Madeira, so deep ocean water comes very close to the shore. That makes the island one of the best places in Europe to see whales and dolphins, often within half an hour of leaving the marina.
What you can see
- Dolphins all year: Atlantic spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and common dolphins are the most frequent sightings.
- Short-finned pilot whales: resident groups are seen through the year.
- Sperm whales: possible at any time, as they pass the island.
- Large baleen whales: Bryde’s and sei whales mostly in spring and summer; fin whales and, occasionally, blue whales mostly in spring.
- Turtles and seabirds, including Cory’s shearwaters in summer.
Sightings are never guaranteed, but on most trips you will see dolphins, and many trips find at least one whale species.
When to go
You can go all year. Spring and summer, roughly April to October, bring the most variety and the calmest seas. In winter, trips are more often cancelled because of waves.
Where trips leave from
Most leave from Funchal marina and Calheta marina, with a few from Machico and Caniçal. Calheta is closer to some of the best waters off the south-west coast.
Types of boat
- Catamarans and larger boats: more stable, with shade and toilets. Good for families and anyone prone to seasickness.
- Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs): faster and closer to the water, more exciting, but bumpy and wet. Not suitable for small children, pregnant women or people with back problems.
Trips usually last two to three hours and cost about €40 to €70 per adult.
Choosing a responsible operator
Madeira has rules on how boats approach whales and dolphins: slowly, from the side, keeping a distance and limiting the time near each group. Good operators follow them, carry a marine biologist or trained guide, and don’t promise swimming with wild dolphins. Ask how they work before you book, and avoid boats that chase animals.
Tips
- Morning trips often have calmer seas.
- Take a jacket even in summer, plus sunscreen and seasickness tablets if you need them.
- If the sea is rough, operators may cancel or move your trip; check the weather warnings.