Dolphins and whales in Madeira: when to go and how to choose
Dolphins and whales live in these waters all year round. The season changes which species you see, and the boat changes the experience.
In short. There are dolphins and whales around Madeira all year round; the most often seen are the common dolphin, the Atlantic spotted dolphin, the bottlenose dolphin, the sperm whale and the pilot whale. Trips last about 2 to 3 hours and leave from Funchal, Calheta, Machico and Caniçal. Sightings are frequent, but no operator guarantees them.
- most-sighted species, from the common dolphin to the sperm whale
- 7
- usual length of a trip
- 2 to 3 hrs
- departure ports on the island
- 4
- Duration
- 2 to 3 hrs by boat
- Route
- By boat
- Level
- 1 of 5, easy
- Where
- Funchal, Calheta, Machico or Caniçal
Top photo: illustrative, not taken at the exact spot.
In this guide: 8 sections
What it is
Visit Madeira lists the most frequently seen species as the common dolphin, the Atlantic spotted dolphin, the bottlenose dolphin, the sperm whale, the pilot whale, Bryde’s whale and the loggerhead turtle.
According to the records of an operator on the southwest coast between 2007 and 2025, bottlenose dolphins are seen most in August, spotted dolphins in July and August, common dolphins in April, Bryde’s whales from July to October and sperm whales mainly in October.
This tour is run with a licensed operator on the island.
Before you go: booking and rules
- No sighting is guaranteed. Some operators offer a second trip when nothing is seen; others refund nothing. Ask before you book.
- Boat and group. Trips run on several types of boat, with different group sizes: ask how many people will be on board and how long the trip lasts.
- The sea decides. Trips depend on sea conditions.
What it costs
There’s no official cost: the price is set by each licensed operator and varies with the boat and the length of the trip. We ask for a proposal with a fixed price for your day.
Shall we arrange it all?
We choose the right operator and trip for your day (boat, group size, port) and arrange your pick-up.
Ask for a proposal on WhatsApp
We’ll reply with a proposal and a fixed price, with no obligation.
How to get there
Boats leave from Funchal, Calheta, Machico and Caniçal; the time and the meeting point depend on the operator.
What to bring
- A light jacket, even in summer
- Sun cream
- Seasickness tablets, if you’re prone to it
What if the weather changes?
In rough seas, the operator cancels or moves the trip: the sea has the final say.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the best time for whale watching in Madeira?
- There are cetaceans all year round. According to the records of an operator on the southwest coast (2007 to 2025), summer is the season with the most species: Bryde’s whales appear from July to October, spotted dolphins mainly in July and August, and sperm whales become more frequent through to October.
- Are sightings guaranteed?
- No. One Calheta operator reports sightings on 89 to 95% of trips between 2012 and 2025, but warns that the statistics guarantee nothing. Some operators offer a second trip if there are no sightings: ask before you book.
- How long does a trip last?
- About 2 to 3 hours, depending on the operator and the boat.
- Where do the boats leave from?
- From Funchal, Calheta, Machico and Caniçal, according to Visit Madeira’s list of operators.
Sources and review date
The facts on this page were checked against the official sources below on 11 October 2026. Rules, opening times and roads change: always check the latest status of the route before you set off.
Shall we arrange it all? Just tell us the day.
We choose the right operator and trip for your day (boat, group size, port) and arrange your pick-up.
Ask for a proposal on WhatsApp
We’ll reply with a proposal and a fixed price, with no obligation.
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