10.09.2026 – Dolphins-feeding frenzy
September 18, 2026
We had two trips out on our different boats today. Both types couldn’t be more different.
Our “Ribeira Brava” offers a leisurely pace, a chance to slow down that many guests, especially those on holiday, really appreciate. This authentic fishing boat is a real eye-catcher and one of the very few of its kind here in Madeira. It is a labor of love, maintained annually with great effort and dedication. Such boats are known as “Xavelha” or “Chavelha”, terms referring to a small, traditional fishing boat from the idyllic village of Câmara de Lobos.
Our “Steno,” with its 500-hp engines, is a speedboat; it glides across the water, is highly maneuverable, and reaches its destination quickly. Consequently, its sighting rate is somewhat higher. It is a low-maintenance vessel, and our guests sit on hydraulic seats that cushion the impact of the waves, a feature that makes the ride very comfortable and easy on the back, even at high speeds.
Whether you choose a leisurely pace or a sportier ride with us, our approach to the animals is always gentle and respectful. This is something everyone should prioritize when whale watching, as we are merely guests on the ocean and aim to conduct ourselves accordingly.
This afternoon, the “Steno” reached the Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in no time. They were heading east, moving away from us, but eventually turned westward, allowing us to observe these magnificent creatures from the leisurely “Xavelha” as well.
by Claudia Gomes
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
09:00 Bottlenose dolphins, Striped dolphins
13:00 Bottlenose dolphins
Steno
09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, Striped dolphins
13:30 Bottlenose dolphins
