The Portuguese island of Madeira is well known as a holiday destination. Its pristine beaches and numerous walking trails attract thousands of tourists every year. But there are also many spots for whale and dolphin watching in Madeira, making it a great destination for wildlife lovers too.
Exploring the Marine Wonders: Whale and Dolphin Watching in Madeira
The island of Madeira has a spectacular variety of wildlife, from birds and mammals to turtles, whales and dolphins. It’s a veritable paradise for animal lovers, but the most popular nature activity is without a doubt whale and dolphin watching. It’s something truly special to see these beautiful animals pop up next to your boat.
And it’s not just dolphins and whales you can spot during a tour. Loggerhead turtles and monk seals are also frequent visitors to the waters and shores of Madeira. It’s such a unique experience that you will cherish for the rest of your life. Don’t miss it when you visit this stunning island.
Best Spots for Whale Watching in Madeira
The whales spend their time in the deep waters around the island. And while you can see them all year round, which species you see will depend on the time of year. The largest number of whale species can be found in Madeira’s waters between April and October.
But where is the best spot to see them? On a boat! There are many tours you can book that will take you around the island to see these incredible mammals. This not only means you get to see several species, but you might even get to see them close up.
However, if you aren’t too keen on the idea of a boat ride, you can also spot them from the shores. Two of the best spots are at Ponta do Garajau and Calheta, where dedicated viewpoints make it easy to see them. And don’t forget to take your binoculars, as you’ll only be able to see them in the distance.
Swimming with Dolphins in Madeira
If dolphin watching in Madeira isn’t enough for you, why not swim with them? This is an experience that you can’t have in many parts of the world, but Madeira is one of those special places. There aren’t many tour companies offering this wonderful adventure, so if you really want to experience it, make sure you book in advance.
There are only three specific dolphin species that you’re allowed to swim with, so the tour pilot has to find a pod of one of them. If the pilot manages to find a pod, then you can enter the water and join them in their wild habitat. Dolphins are very inquisitive animals so will probably swim around you. This is an adventure you will never forget, a step up from whale and dolphin watching in Madeira.
Why come to Madeira to Watch Whales and Dolphins?
The waters around the island of Madeira reach depths of up to 3,000 meters, supporting a rich marine life. This means you’ll probably be able to see many species of whales and dolphins. This variety makes Madeira one of the best places in the world to watch these majestic creatures.
With a bit of luck you’ll be able to see Common Dolphins, Spotted Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins and even swim with them. Sperm Whales, Pilot Whales, Bryde’s Whales and even Orcas grace the waters around Madeira. So when you are in Madeira, whale watching should be on top of your list. Fortunately, there are many places that offer this exciting adventure.
Options for Whale Watching in Madeira
While there are many tour companies in Madeira offering tours to see whales and dolphins, they all either use catamarans or speedboats. Both have their pros and cons, so which one you choose depends on your preference. Regardless of the boat used, tours tend to take between two and three hours.
Catamarans are the more comfortable option. You can walk around, there are toilets and because they’re slower it’s a more comfortable ride. Speedboats are smaller and faster, but bear in mind that you’ll have to stay seated, so it’s more difficult to see whales or dolphins on the other side. However, they are also lower, so if dolphins swim up to the boat you can see them really close up.
At Atlantic Holidays, we take pride in offering an exceptional service that allows you to witness the breathtaking spectacle of dolphins and whales in their natural habitat around the stunning island of Madeira. Our dedicated excursions are designed to enhance your holiday experience, ensuring you have unforgettable moments on the open sea. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with nature – book your dolphin and whale watching adventure in Madeira with us today!
Book Your Trip to See Whales And Dolphins Now
Whale and dolphin watching in Madeira is simply one of the best things to do on the island. This exciting and unique experience alone is worth a visit, but Madeira is a holiday destination that has it all. Beaches to relax in the sun and recharge your batteries, a wild and rugged landscape that invites you to discover the many walking trails. And of course, the opportunity to see stunning wildlife, including whales and dolphins. So come on, book your trip to Madeira now, and embark on an adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come.
