11.09.2025 – False orcas are back!!!

The day started with our usual suspects this time of the year, Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). The afternoon, however, had a big surprise waiting for us.

As we were heading out on Stenella we had information on dolphins at 5 nautical miles out of the marina. As we were heading into the glare, it was tricky for our spotter Silviano to see clearly. We were waiting to confirm the species during the encounter but heading in with the expectation of finding Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus). As soon as I saw the first animal, it was very clear we found False orcas (Pseudorca crassidens).

The last time, we saw this species was one afternoon in June. These animals are a rare sight, just passing by, which is why we are very excited whenever we get to see them. False orcas are big dolphins with males reaching lengths of up to 6 metres. However, they behave like small dolphins. They are not shy at all, showing a lot of interest in boats, bow and wake riding whilst displaying incredible energy. Today, we saw them mixed with Bottlenose dolphins, a species they commonly like to associate with. In some areas, like New Zealand, long-term associations lasting over 5 years have been documented between these two species.

During the last trip, we manage to encounter the False orcas and Bottlenose dolphins again. On top of that, we even saw Blainville’s beaked whales (Mesoplodon desirostris) and a very interested Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Another day with fantastic sightings!

By Hannah Carstens

Sightings of the Day

Ribeira Brava

09:00 Bottlenose dolphins

13:00 Bottlenose dolphins, False orcas

Stenella

09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins

13:30 Bottlenose dolphins, False orcas

16:30 Bottlenose dolphins, False orcas, Blainville’s beaked whales, Loggerhead sea turtle