26.06.2026 – Unique encounter with the Monk seal
July 2, 2026
29.06.2026 – Very dynamic
July 4, 2026
Another beautiful day on the ocean brought some fantastic wildlife encounters!
Today’s star visitors were the wonderful Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanesis), which we were lucky enough to see on every single tour. These sleek, elegant dolphins are less commonly encountered than some other species around Madeira, making every sighting a special one. They are easily recognised by their long, sloping forehead—without the distinct crease seen on bottlenose dolphins—and their beautifully streamlined bodies. Rough-toothed dolphins are highly social, often travelling in close-knit groups, and are known for their calm, curious nature. They spend much of their time in deeper offshore waters, feeding on fish and squid.
Our morning tours were treated to an extra surprise as both trips also encountered Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), delighting everyone on board with their playful behaviour.
The afternoon tour finished the day with another memorable sighting—a graceful Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) slowly making its way through the calm Atlantic waters. These incredible turtles are frequent visitors around Madeira and can often be seen resting or foraging at the surface.
With calm seas, sunshine, and amazing wildlife throughout the day, it was another fantastic day out at sea. We can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!
By Gemma Stockmans
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
09:30 Rough-toothed dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins
13:00 Rough-toothed dolphins, Loggerhead sea turtle
Steno
09:30 Rough-toothed dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins
