29.09.2026 – The sea can change quickly
October 7, 2026
We saw Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) on all our tours today and we make sure to communicate, no matter how much fun we are having with these wonderfully interactive dolphins, we always need to stick to the observation time and respect the signs given by the animals.
Interactive species like the spotted dolphins are particularly susceptible to experiencing negative impact through whale watching activity and, while this species is thought to have a seasonal presence here in Madeira, the relationship of the species to the region is still not quite understood. There have been whispers of a resident population, moving opportunistically around Madeira and the surrounding waters, a discovery that could be a game changer for how we perceive the spotted dolphin populations here – and how we behave around them.
Beyond considering our possible impact, we also made sure all crew and guests were present in these wholesome moments with the spotted dolphins today. It is impossible not to feel affection for these wonderful and curious animals, and we hope that clients rest with this feeling long after our trips and take it with them to future encounters.
By Paula Thake
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
09:00 Atlantic spotted dolphin
13:00 Atlantic spotted dolphin
Steno
09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphin
13:30 Atlantic spotted dolphin, Bottlenose dolphin, Short-finned pilot whale
