Whales and Dolphin experience

Because of its unique location in the mid-ocean the island of Madeira is blessed with a very special event: the presence of visiting whales and dolphins, which has only recently been recognized as another asset to this beautiful holiday destination.

The year 2003 was an extraordinary year with regard to the number of Fin and Sei Whales to be spotted in the waters surrounding the island, where these species took up residence during the summer months. As just five kilometers off shore the ocean floor reaches a depth of more than 3,000 meters, Madeira’s waters close to the coast rapidly drop very deep, and on most days these ocean going creatures are swimming by right on your door step. In some years oceanic species of dolphins along with very rare Beaked Whales are also common to see in the waters of Madeira.

Apart from this breathtaking whale and dolphin spotting experience you will also get a glimpse of ocean wandering sea birds, some of which are found nowhere else in the world!

Here are some of the species that can be spotted during these safaris: Fin Whale, Sperm Whale, Sei Whale, Pilot Whale, various kinds of Beaked Whale, Humpback Whale & many others; Oceanic Dolphin, Atlantic Spotted Dolphin, Common Dolphin, Bottle Nose Dolphin, Striped Dolphin, Rough Tooth Dolphin, Risso’s Dolphin & many others.

The island of Madeira can make a whale and dolphin watcher’s dream come true!