Experience Whales and Dolphins in Madeira

Located just off Africa’s western coast, Madeira’s waters are always a warm, inviting temperature for passing sea life! As a result, a huge tourist attraction is the dolphin and whale watching tours departing from Funchal’s harbour. In fact, whale watching in Madeira has dramatically grown in recent years, offering a great range of day trips to choose from.

Furthermore, Madeira’s sea life is now protected, with waters around the island designated as marine reserves. For instance, south of the island, towards eastern Funchal Bay, is Garajau Reserve. It protects and conserves many species.

First, pick a tour company that really cares about the animals. Then, choose a day and time that works best for you.

The Whale Watching Tour Operator we Recommend

If you want the ultimate Madeira dolphin and whale watching experience, look no further than VMT Madeira. As one of the island’s highest-rated tour operators, they offer you exceptional whale watching tours. You’ll find two convenient daily trip options to suit your schedule. But there’s more – VMT Madeira also provides other captivating catamaran trips around the island for you. This ensures you can maximize your adventure exploring Madeira. With VMT, you’ll have an unforgettable experience observing marine life and the coastline.

Depart from Funchal

Generally speaking most Madeira whale watching trips depart from Funchal’s south coast. You can search online, ask at your hotel reception, or stroll along Funchal Bay to visit the many sales booths. With so many companies to choose from, we recommend opting for the most highly regarded, VMT Madeira. They’re one of the best tour operators on the island.

You can go also go on land based tours with VMT Madeira. They have other catamaran trips around the island too. Most trips are about 3 hours long. And you’ll likely see whales and dolphins in their natural home. So, you won’t be disappointed.

Booking Whale Watching Tours In Advance

If you don’t have much time or like to plan ahead, book great tours on GetYourGuide before your trip. This will guarantee your spot on this unforgettable adventure. Don’t be disappointed. Book your Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour well before your trip. It’s best to get tickets early for this amazing adventure. When you book ahead, you ensure your place to see grand whales and fun dolphins up close. So, don’t miss this awesome chance to see incredible marine life in its natural home. Reserve your tour today!

The Best Time of Day for Your Whale Watching Adventure

Wondering whether to go whale watching in the morning or afternoon? The answer depends on what you like. If you want a peaceful trip, pick the morning. Imagine sipping a warm drink, feeling the calm sea breeze, and enjoying the quiet. But remember, the weather can change this.

If you love sun and don’t mind heat, the afternoon might be perfect. Relax in the morning, maybe on the beach or in shops, before your whale-watching trip.

It depends upon what you want. Morning and afternoon trips both have perks. It’s about what you like best!

No Need to Stress About Crowds or Positioning

Regardless of your choice, the boat will likely be quite full. Unfortunately, there’s no secret to avoiding crowds on this popular excursion. But don’t worry – you don’t need to rush for a front spot like many tourists. The catamarans have ample space, so you’ll comfortably enjoy the experience from anywhere onboard. Plus, the skilled captains know how to position the boat for optimal viewing of incredible marine life, no matter where you sit.

Whale Watching Tour Times:

VMT Madeira offers two daily dolphin and whale watching trips for you to choose from.

Morning: 10:30am – 1:30pm

For a calm, early adventure, choose the morning trip. Imagine yourself on peaceful waters, the sun warming your skin, as you eagerly look for the first signs of these awesome creatures.

Afternoon: 3pm – 6pm
If you like to sleep in or want to explore the island first, the afternoon trip is a good choice. Also as the day goes on, excitement builds. You’ll excitedly scan the horizon for signs of dolphin and whale activity.

Arrive on Time – Check-In Closes 30 Minutes Before Departure

To minimize stress, arrive 30 minutes early. Doing so allows ample time to check in, meet other travellers, and listen closely to guide instructions. Arriving with extra time ensures a calm, smooth start to your adventure.

As you step onto the spacious catamaran, feel excitement build. Whether you chose morning or afternoon, you’re embarking on a lifetime adventure, creating lasting memories. So what are you waiting for?

Book your Madeira whale watching tour today! Ultimately get ready to be amazed by the incredible home waters’ marine life.

Madeira Whale Watching Tour Information:

A Comfortable and Worry-Free Experience

To begin step aboard the comfortable catamaran, leaving any worries about seasickness behind. After all these boats prioritize your comfort, with 2 to 3 toilets, a bar, and 4 dedicated staff members ready to assist you. Additionally, you can sit back and relax while enjoying this journey like never before. Moreover, the catamaran’s design ensures a smooth sailing experience. Ultimately, this allows you to fully immerse yourself in the unfolding adventure.

Unparalleled Sighting Records and Expert Guides

As your boat cruises from Funchal, expert spotters on land closely watch the ocean. Consequently, they direct you towards dolphins and whales. Also, their expertise helps these tours have one of the best sighting records in Funchal. Additionally, certified guides provide informative commentary. Specifically, they share fascinating facts about the diverse marine life you may see.

Up-Close Encounters with Diverse Marine Life

Throughout the trip, the boat will stop several times as dolphin pods and various whale species pass by. In fact this provides an incredible opportunity to witness the diversity of marine life thriving in Madeira’s surrounding waters. These magnificent creatures frequent the coastline year-round, thereby making a boat trip an essential part of your Madeira itinerary.

What to Expect When Whale Watching in Madeira

Picture cruising along Madeira’s beautiful south coast, the sun warming you, as you excitedly look for the majestic whales in these waters. Also, you’ll have the chance to see many other incredible marine animals. For instance, on this memorable whale watching trip, you may see dolphins frolicking beside the boat.

An All-Encompassing Marine Experience

In addition to diverse whale species, you may spot sea birds, turtles, and playful dolphins. If you want to take your marine adventure further, you can even snorkel alongside wild Atlantic dolphins.

For anyone visiting stunning Madeira, a whale watching trip is highly recommended. Simply put, prepare to be amazed and inspired by the incredible marine world’s beauty and diversity awaiting you. Without a doubt, this experience will change you forever.

A Scenic Journey Back to Shore

On the way back, the boat sails near the coast. As a result, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the island’s famous landmarks. For example, marvel at the towering Cabo Girão sea cliffs, among the world’s highest. Similarly, admire the charming Camara de Lobos fishing village bay. Finally, as you pass Reid’s Hotel, where Churchill stayed, you’ll feel a sense of history and wonder.

Convenient Options for Every Traveller

If you’re short on time or prefer having everything organized in advance, you can book some fantastic tours on GetYourGuide before your trip. Reserve your place well in advance. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure!

Prepare for an experience of a lifetime. Undoubtedly memories will stay with you long after returning home.

The Best Time to Spot Whales in Madeira

You can see marine life in Madeira all year, but April to October is best for spotting whales. Why? More whale species, both resident and migratory, are around during these months.

That’s why most Madeira holidays with whale watching run from April to October. Doing so gives you the best chance to see these mighty mammals.

So, to watch whales in their natural habitat, pick the right time for your trip. Planning ahead is worth it for the most amazing experience!

Discover the Fascinating Whale Species in Madeira’s Waters

Madeira Island is one of the greatest places on Earth to spot many types of whales and dolphins. In fact, way back in 1986, whale hunting was outlawed around the Madeira Islands, extending 200 miles out. Consequently, thanks to this, Madeira has become a natural reserve – a true sanctuary for all these amazing animals, including the rare Mediterranean monk seal.

A ton of whales migrate through the Madeira Islands each year. In fact, new research has discovered 28 different species out of the 78 known kinds of whales. In other words, imagine that – 1/3 of all whale species can be found here, ranging from playful dolphins to the enormous blue whales!

Types of Whales You Can Also Find on Madeira:

Right Whale or Basque Whale

• This whale lives in shallow coastal waters
• It’s found in small groups of 2 to 20
• It’s rarely seen

Blue Whale

• A big animal, growing up to 30 meters long
• It’s a solitary creature
• It’s not often spotted from April to September

Fin Whale

• Can grow as long as 27 meters
• A fast, deep water animal (can swim at 9 knots)
• Found alone or occasionally in groups of up to 5
• It’s mostly seen from March to October.

Sei Whale

• This whale has a very long body (14 meters)
• Usually seen along the island but farther from the coast
• Lives in groups of 2 to 5
• It’s sometimes seen in Madeira from March to October

Bryde’s or Tropical Whale

• Grows to 13 meters long
• Found alone or also in pairs
• Often interacts with boats
• Prefers warm waters
• Mainly seen from April to December

Madeira Tours:

Minke Whale or Dwarf Whale

• Found in both ocean and coastal waters
• In groups of up to 3
• A curious animal
• Rarely seen between June and August

Humpback Whale

• Big animal, growing up to 18 meters long
• Gray or black body with large fins
• They’re curious and not scared of boats
• They’re found in coastal and deep waters during their migrations
• Seen between April and May and October and November

Pygmy Sperm Whale

• A small, 3-meter long animal
• Seen in July, August, and December
• Found in groups of 3 to 6
• Slow swimmer and hard to spot, likes very calm waters

Sperm Whale

• An 18-meter long animal
• Found in Madeira all year, but mostly from March to September
• Sometimes when diving, you can see its unique tail fin
• Seen alone or in big groups
• A real up-and-comer

Gervais’ Beaked Whale

• Lives in subtropical waters
• Very shy animal
• Rarely seen between April and June
• Tends to stay away from boats
• Lives in groups of 2 to 5

Sowerby’s Beaked Whale

• Rarely seen from July to August
• Shy behaviour
• Found alone or in groups of 10
• Eats squid and fish

Blainville’s Beaked Whale or Dense-Beaked Whale

• Shy animal
• Sometimes acts like a dolphin
• Rarely seen from July to August

Cuvier’s Beaked Whale

• Has a beak like a goose
• Avoids boats unless they’re not moving or going very slow
• Seen mostly from May to July

Best Seasons for Whale and Dolphin Watching in Madeira

Madeira’s waters are home to diverse whale and dolphin species with unique seasonal patterns. This quick guide helps you plan your visit:

1. Atlantic Spotted Dolphin: Year-round, mostly March to November.
2. Bryde’s Whale: April to October.
3. Common Bottlenose Dolphin: Year-round, greater numbers March to October.
4. Sperm Whale: Year-round, mainly March to September.
5. Short-finned Pilot Whale: Year-round, primarily November to April.
6. Short-beaked Common Dolphin: December to May.

You’ll witness incredible marine life no matter when you visit Madeira. Plan your trip to maximize spotting your favourite species. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

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Travel Planning Guide for Madeira

Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Madeira

Buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Therefore, enjoy your holiday in Madeira stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Visitors Coverage Insurance.

Renting a Car in Madeira

Indeed, renting a car in Madeira is easy and is a great way to explore the island freely. Consequently, I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

Finding the Perfect Accommodation

The best way to book your accommodation in Madeira is with Booking.com. In fact, it’s my go to site to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Booking Flights to Madeira

Lastly, for air travel, I recommend booking your flight with Omio. Moreover, it has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights to visit Madeira.