Whale and Dolphin Watching in Madeira 2025

Madeira archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean offers one of the most spectacular whale-watching experiences in Europe. Located at the crossroads of important marine migration routes, Madeira's subtropical waters are rich in marine biodiversity. The deep, nutrient-filled ocean surrounding the islands creates the perfect habitat for an abundance of sea life, making it one of the best places in the world to spot whales and dolphins. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable experience on the water, Madeira’s whale-watching opportunities are truly unparalleled.

Whale and Dolphin Species

The waters around Madeira host over 20 species of whales and dolphins throughout the year. Among the most common whale species are sperm whales, pilot whales, Bryde’s whales, and fin whales. Sperm whales, in particular, can be found in Madeira’s waters year-round. During the migration season, visitors may even spot majestic humpback whales and blue whales. Dolphin lovers can regularly spot bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and common dolphins. The playful interactions of dolphins often steal the show during whale-watching tours, adding to the overall experience.

Best Time for Whale Watching in Madeira

While whale watching is possible year-round in Madeira, the best months to witness a greater variety of marine life are from April to October. During this time, the warmer waters attract migratory species such as humpback whales, Bryde’s whales, and fin whales. Summer and early autumn are ideal for spotting dolphins in large pods, as they are drawn to the plentiful fish in the surrounding waters. Sperm whales, however, remain a year-round highlight, ensuring that visitors can enjoy whale-watching adventures regardless of the season.

Whale-Watching Tours in Madeira

Madeira offers a variety of whale-watching tours. Most tours depart from the capital, Funchal, with some additional departures from Calheta, on the southwest coast. Madeira's largest operators include VMT Madeira, which offers 3-hour whale-watching catamaran tours for €40. In the summer, guests can enjoy a swim in the ocean below Cabo Girão, and when there are favourable winds, the catamaran turns off the engines and hoists the sails, which means less pollution and more relaxation.

Rota dos Cetáceos offers a two-hour whale-watching tour, accompanied by a marine biologists team. on a smaller semi-rigid fast boat for €60. Madeira Wind Birds offers 2-hour tours off Machico, led by naturalists, for €45 per person. Operators use eco-friendly, small boats that allow for a more intimate experience with marine life, and most tours guarantee sightings of either whales or dolphins.

Bottlenose dolphins are the most commonly seen species on whale-watching tours, often swimming alongside boats and leaping playfully out of the water. Atlantic spotted dolphins, known for their energetic displays, can also be frequently spotted in larger pods. Whether you're watching these playful creatures ride the bow waves or marveling at their acrobatic jumps, the dolphins add extra fun to any whale-watching tour in Madeira.