Imagine waking up to the gentle rhythm of the ocean in Madeira, only to find yourself amidst the company of two incredible sea creatures: Short-Finned Pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) and Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).
The Short-Finned Pilot whales, despite their name, are actually dolphins—majestic beings with jet-black bodies and rounded heads. And then, enter the Bottlenose dolphins, playful and social (between their own pod), recognisable by their friendly faces and curved smiles.
These creatures call Madeira’s warm waters home, drawn by its rich nutrients and inviting shores. Witnessing them in their natural habitat is a lesson in grace and wonder, a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our oceans.
As these magnificent beings bid farewell, they leave behind a treasure trove of memories, a morning made extraordinary by the simple joy of sharing space with these incredible animals.
A visit to Madeira might just gift you a morning as magical as this, where encounters with these creatures become tales to cherish and share, inspiring us to protect and preserve the wonders of our oceans.
Madeira’s waters hold endless marvels, and encounters with its marine life are just one of the many enchanting experiences awaiting exploration!
By Camila Dávila
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
09:30 Pilot whales
Stenella
09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Pilot whales