04.06.2026 – Silence
June 11, 2026
This morning’s tours were treated to an unforgettable encounter with an enormous pod of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). As our boats approached the area, the dolphins seemed just as excited to meet us as we were to see them. Known for their curious and highly social nature, they quickly came over to investigate, surrounding the boats and putting on a wonderful display of playful behavior.
Guests watched in awe as the dolphins leaped gracefully from the water, performing spectacular twists and turns in the air. Their energy and enthusiasm created a magical atmosphere, reminding us why these encounters are always so special.
The Atlantic spotted dolphin is a distinctive and intelligent species commonly found in the warm and temperate waters around Madeira. One of their most recognizable features is the pattern of dark spots covering their bodies. These spots develop gradually with age; younger dolphins often have very few or no spots at all, while adults display a beautiful and intricate spotted pattern.
Adult Atlantic spotted dolphins can grow up to 2.3 meters in length and weigh between 100 and 140 kilograms. They usually travel in groups of several dozen individuals, although they are sometimes seen in much larger pods—just like the impressive gathering we encountered today. Living in social groups allows them to cooperate while hunting and helps protect them from potential predators.
Today’s sighting was a perfect example of the remarkable intelligence, social bonds, and playful spirit that make Atlantic spotted dolphins such a beloved species among whale and dolphin watchers. Encounters like these are a true highlight of life on the waters of Madeira and a wonderful reminder of the rich marine biodiversity that surrounds our island.
Further we saw bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and the short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) on this day. And the afternoon tours had a glimpse of a pod of Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus)
By Gemma Stockmans
Sightings of the day
Stenella
09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins
13:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales, Loggerhead turtle
16:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales
Steno
09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins
