Madeira is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations for adventure, with so many amazing things to do all over the island! But dolphin watching Madeira is the highlight.
Since the island is surrounded by deep Atlantic waters just a few kilometres off the coast and by warm ocean currents that attract a huge variety of species, dolphin watching Madeira offers great opportunities to see dolphins and whales year-round.
Why dolphin watching in Madeira is great
Madeira is widely recognised as one of the best places in Europe for whale and dolphin watching.
Located in the Atlantic Ocean around 1,000 kilometres southwest of mainland Portugal, the island benefits from deep waters that sit extremely close to shore. This is the unique geographical feature that makes Madeira dolphin and whale watching far more reliable than in many other destinations.
More than 25 different species of dolphins and whales have been recorded around Madeira. Sightings are possible all year due to resident populations of both dolphins and sperm whales. Many tour operators report success rates of over 90%, with some exceeding 95% during peak season.
What really sets Madeira apart from other wildlife destinations is that they depend heavily on migration seasons, while Madeira has consistent opportunities throughout the year.
What Species can you see in Madeira?
Apart from almost always being able to see dolphins and whales, what really makes Madeira dolphin watching so special is the variety of species that live in or migrate through the surrounding waters. Dolphins are particularly active and are frequently seen riding waves alongside boats or swimming in large pods.
Most commonly spotted dolphins:
- Bottlenose dolphins: intelligent and playful, often seen surfing boat waves
- Atlantic spotted dolphins: known for their energetic behaviour
- Common dolphins: fast swimmers with striking colouring
- Striped dolphins: acrobatic and agile, often leaping from the water
Other species you may encounter:
- Risso’s dolphins
- Short-finned pilot whales (commonly mistaken for dolphins)
- False killer whales
Pods can range from just a few individuals to more than 100 dolphins, depending on the species and time of year. Certain species, such as bottlenose dolphins, are present year-round and frequently spotted close to shore.
Another noteworthy point is the resident sperm whale population, making Madeira one of the few places in Europe where these species can be seen consistently without relying solely on migration patterns.
What are the best tours for dolphin watching in Madeira?
Choosing the right tour plays a major role in your experience. Madeira dolphin watching tours are operated by licensed companies that work closely with conservation authorities and marine biologists.
There are a variety of tours that leave from Funchal and Caniço; however, Calheta is a more common departure site.
A quality dolphin-watching tour should include an experienced crew with certified guides, real-time spotter information from coastal lookouts, strict adherence to responsible wildlife observation standards, and educational commentary about marine life on board. Additionally, look for operators that have a sighting guarantee or free rebooking policy if no animals are seen.
Tour types
Speedboat or RIB tours offer a faster journey to sightings with smaller groups, increasing the chances of seeing active dolphin pods and making them ideal for photography and adventure seekers. However, these boats can feel bumpy in rough seas and are less suitable for very young children or travellers who are prone to motion sickness.
Catamaran tours provide a slower and smoother experience with added comfort, such as toilets and shaded areas, making them a good option for families. The downside is that catamarans tend to carry larger groups and offer less flexibility when approaching wildlife compared to smaller boats.
What to check before booking:
- Operator credentials and licences
- Sea conditions policy
- Wildlife ethics compliance
- Group size limits
- Cancellation and refund policy
Whale-watching options
Madeira dolphin and whale watching is a unique experience of seeing both species in a single trip.
Whale species recorded in Madeira:
- Sperm whales (resident)
- Bryde’s whales
- Fin whales
- Sei whales
- Humpback whales (seasonal)
- Pilot whales
Sperm whales are the island’s most common resident species and are observed year-round.
Best time for whale watching:
- Highest variety: March to October
- Peak diversity: Spring months
- Calmest seas: June to August
Many tours include marine biologists who explain feeding behaviours, dive patterns, and communication methods used by whales. It turns a wildlife trip into an educational experience that appeals to both children and adults.
Tips for a good sightseeing experience
Being well-prepared helps guarantee that your dolphin watching Madeira adventure is comfortable, safe and enjoyable.
Make sure to pack:
- Windproof jacket
- Sun cream
- Sunglasses
- Camera or smartphone
- Motion sickness tablets
- Small backpack
- Water and a light snack
Best practices:
- Choose morning tours for calmer seas
- Avoid large breakfasts if you’re prone to seasickness
- Protect your electronics
- Listen carefully to safety briefings
When is the best time to go dolphin watching in Madeira?
Madeira dolphin watching is possible all year, but conditions vary depending on the season.
Spring has excellent conditions and the highest diversity of species, while summer provides the calmest seas and is best for families. In the autumn, ocean conditions are very good with fewer tourists, and winter is still worthwhile thanks to sightings of resident species despite more variable weather.
Overall, the best time to go is from April to September, as it’s the calmest seas, warmer temperatures, and increased wildlife activity. During summer, the sea temperature reaches around 22°C, while winter remains mild at approximately 17°C. Tourist numbers are highest in July and August, whereas March and October strike a balance between good conditions and a quieter atmosphere.
Come and visit Madeira
Dolphin watching Madeira is not just a tourist activity, but a great opportunity to connect with nature in its rawest and most inspiring form. Few places in Europe offer such consistent access to marine wildlife in an ethical and environmentally responsible way.
To complete your stay, book your accommodation with Behomie. With comfortable, well-located properties across the island, it is easy to plan early departures for tours while still enjoying peaceful coastal living.
A dolphin adventure deserves a stay that matches its quality. Choose Behomie and make your Madeira escape both effortless and memorable.
