In addition to all the paradisiacal landscapes that Madeira has, the fact that it has a rich marine life made me feel even more in love with Madeira Island, and it was exactly with a cetacean observation that I wanted to work when I decided to move to Madeira Island… 2 and a half years later I was working on a Cetacean Watching boat.
I currently divide my days between the boat and my company. I am very grateful to have the privilege of seeing such special animals in their habitat. It’s always exciting.
In Madeira, there are 29 species of cetaceans, both resident and passing, making it one of the areas with the highest density of animals in the Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. This is due to Madeira location, being point of passage and stop of several cetaceans, as well as turtles. The most common of us to see in the sea of Madeira is the Bottlenose Dolphins. Researchers estimate that 125 animals of these species permanently inhabit Madeira’s waters, except those that come in passing.
In my travels, I have seen Dolphins Roaz, Common, Spotted, Stripped, Risso and Caldeirão, also Whales Pilot, Sperm, Beaked and Bryde.
When you come to Madeira don’t miss the chance to go to observe the marine life of the Island.
Both in Funchal and in Calheta we have great options of tours to observe these beautiful creatures, from catamarans with capacity for 216 people (price € 35 adult and € 17.50 children) or boats, like the one I work, with maximum capacity of 8 people where you will have more private, stopping for bath and in addition, serves drinks without charging anything else for this service (€ 45). The tours last around 3 hours.
It´s important to note that we do not feed the animals here so ,they can approach to the boat. This is part of the respect we all have in Madeira for them. You will see them in their natural habitat and this is something very special.
Taking advantage of the post, if you have not yet watched the documentary “Blackfish”, watch. It´s a documentary that talks about the life of these animals in confinement. The way they are captured, the way they are cruelly held in small places. Are animals born in the ocean, want more freedom of space ??? Do you think it is not cruel to keep them within a limited space?
If you do not agree to animal abuse, do not contribute to it … do not visit parks where animals are trained, zoos, aquariums, do not pay to walk on an elephant, take pictures with tigers or lions, be aware and decide to respect and love all species.
Link to watch Blackfish: http://www.blackfishmovie.com
