Speed Boat or Catamaran for Whale Watching in Madeira? Why We Choose the Speed Boat

When it comes to whale and dolphin watching in Madeira, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Should I choose a catamaran or a speed boat for the tour?”

At Blue Safari Madeira, we proudly operate with custom-built speed boats — and here’s why we believe it’s the best way to experience marine wildlife in the waters around Madeira.

1. Speed Means More Sightings

Our speed boats are faster and more agile, which allows us to cover a much wider area of ocean in less time. This increased range boosts our chances of finding multiple species of dolphins and whales in a single outing. While catamarans follow a more fixed route and pace, our boats can quickly respond to real-time sightings and updates from our professional spotters on land.

2. A Closer, More Intimate Experience

Speed boats offer a small-group experience, which means:

  • Less crowding

  • More personalized attention

  • Better photo opportunities

You’re closer to the water and to the action. You’ll feel the magic of a pod of dolphins swimming just meters away or the powerful presence of a whale surfacing nearby — all without being packed on a large vessel.

3. Environmentally Conscious and Respectful

Our boats are specially designed for minimal impact, and our experienced marine biologists ensure that every encounter respects the animals’ natural behavior. Being smaller and more maneuverable, speed boats can observe from a respectful distance without disturbing the wildlife, unlike larger vessels that may struggle to adapt to animal movement.

4. More Adventure, Less Waiting

Let’s face it — a speed boat is simply more exciting. The thrill of gliding across the Atlantic in search of whales and dolphins adds an adventurous edge to your day. No long waits to board, no large groups — just the ocean, the animals, and you.

Why Not a Catamaran?

Catamarans are great for those who prefer a relaxed, scenic cruise. They offer bar service and plenty of lounging space, but they usually host larger groups and follow slower, less flexible routes. If your main goal is spotting marine life up close and maximizing your time with the animals, the speed boat is the clear winner.

Come See for Yourself!

Join us on a speed boat tour in Funchal and experience Madeira’s marine life the way it’s meant to be seen — up close, respectfully, and guided by experts.
We’re confident you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories (and maybe a few amazing photos too!).

👉 Book your speed boat whale watching tour with Blue Safari Madeira today!

When Is the Best Time to See Whales in Madeira?

Madeira is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching, offering unforgettable encounters with these magnificent creatures all year round. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature-loving traveler, or simply looking to experience something extraordinary during your holiday, you don’t want to miss a whale watching tour with Blue Safari Madeira. But when is the best time to go?

Whale Watching in Madeira: A Year-Round Adventure

Unlike many other destinations, Madeira boasts resident species of whales and dolphins that can be seen throughout the year. These include:

  • Sperm whales

  • Short-finned pilot whales

  • Bottlenose dolphins

  • Atlantic spotted dolphins (seasonal)

However, different species visit the waters around Madeira at different times of the year—so depending on when you visit, you may have the chance to spot some real ocean giants.

 

Spring to Early Summer (April to July): The Peak Season

If you’re aiming for the best chance to see a wide variety of whale species, this is the time to come.

During these months, you might encounter:

  • Fin whales – the second-largest animal on the planet

  • Sei whales – sleek and fast, usually passing close to the coastline

  • Bryde’s whales – tropical visitors that often surprise with close surface swims

  • Beaked whales – elusive but occasionally spotted in deep waters

  • Atlantic spotted dolphins – playful and often seen in large groups during warmer months

This period offers excellent weather, calm seas, and a high diversity of both resident and migratory species.

Autumn to Winter (October to March): Quiet, But Still Rewarding

Although there’s a drop in migratory species during the cooler months, there are still incredible opportunities for whale watching. Species like:

  • Sperm whales and

  • Pilot whales

  • Common Dolphins

can be seen year-round, often in calm groups or family pods. With fewer boats on the water, autumn and winter tours also offer a more tranquil and personal experience with nature.

What to Expect on a Tour with Blue Safari Madeira

We operate with marine biologists on board and use spotters on land to guide our boats toward the best sightings. All tours are run with a deep respect for marine life—no feeding, chasing, or disturbing the animals—just pure observation in their natural environment.

Final Tips

  • Book in advance, especially in spring and summer.

  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a windbreaker—it can get breezy at sea.

  • Don’t forget your camera (but also take a moment to just watch and enjoy!).

No matter when you visit Madeira, the ocean has a story to tell—and whales are some of its most majestic characters. Join us at Blue Safari Madeira and be part of the adventure.

Ready to go whale watching? Book your tour here and let nature amaze you.

Discovering Madeira’s Diverse Cetacean Wonderland: A Guide to Spectacular Sightings

Madeira boasts a stunning array of over 26 cetacean species, solidifying its position as a premier global destination for observing these magnificent animals. Among the resident species available for encounters year-round are Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus), and sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus). Seasonally, varying species make appearances depending on factors like the season and sea temperature.

whales madeira

 

Throughout the summer months, typically from April to October, visitors can expect frequent sightings of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis), Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni), Striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalb), Sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis), Cuvier’s beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris), Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus), and Rough Toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis). Winter brings opportunities to witness resident species along with the arrival of Short-beaked Common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) from December to April.

dolphins whales madeira
Situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Archipelago of Madeira serves as a location to observe migrating cetaceans like humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus), and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus).

dolphins whales tour madeira funchal
While rarer in sightings, orcas (Orcinus orca), false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), Fraser’s dolphins (Lagenodelphis hosei), and other species have also been spotted in Madeira’s waters, adding an element of excitement to the experience.