BWB – The lateral line organ
March 9, 2026
The grey weather this morning left both crew and guests wondering whether a tour would be possible at all and our team initiated our usual standby protocol to give our spotter time to make the best decision. Shortly after the planned departure time, our spotter called to inform us of a weather opening and, likely, the presence of a group of dolphins and, of course, our team immediately sped off to the area.
Our spotter led us to the waters of Cabo Girão further east, an area that is characterised by a dynamic seascape. The encumeada valley that cuts through the centre of the island continues as a submarine canyon here, practically bordering an underwater plateau stretching offshore from the islands highest coastal cliffs; a very attractive place for toothed whales.
After searching for a few minutes one of our guests spotted a dorsal fin breaking the surface, revealing a small pod of Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). These dolphins tend to prefer the coastal waters of island and usually forage in waters that are 500-800m, making the plateau of Cabot Girão an ideal spot for them. The fact that the species has a preference for coastal waters puts them into frequent with boats, often making them a more timid species during sightings. Today they were curious, gliding alongside us and lifting their heads to observe us at the surface, making this a lovely sighting.
Although these grey dolphins matched equally grey clouds, that showered us with rain as we sped back to the marina, they truly were our ray of light on this cold, cloudy day!
By Paula Thake
Sightings of the day
Stenella
09:30 Bottlenose dolphins
