What a day we had at Lobosonda! Our snorkeling adventure began at 9:30 AM, and the Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) greeted us with their playful flips and spins. They danced through the waves, their sleek bodies a marvel to behold. It was like they knew we were there to witness their aquatic ballet. Some even sung to us, and tilted their heads as they try to decipher our human bodies perhaps thinking we were just weird seals.
As the morning sun warmed the sea, Ribeira Brava crew encountered the majestic Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and Pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) graced us with their presence, both their sizes bigger than the ones we snorkelled with grace a stark contrast.
And then, a special treat awaited for both boats at 13:30 PM – the Striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba)! These enchanting creatures made their appearance, their distinctive patterns creating a mesmerizing display. It was a moment that felt straight out of a nature documentary.
Today’s snorkeling adventure was a testament to the magic that lies beneath the waves. The dolphins, with their joyful antics and graceful presence, left us with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Madeira, you’ve truly stolen our hearts!
By Camila Dávila
Sightings of the day
Snorkelling
09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins
Stenella
13:30
Ribeira Brava
9:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Pilot whales
13:30 Striped dolphins