The Details
The Madeiran archipelago is one of the best places to observe ocean wildlife: spotted dolphins, sperm whales, storm petrels and cory’s shearwaters can be seen throughout the year, with loggerhead turtles, risso’s dolphins, bryde’s whales and pilot whales joining them at seasonal points in the year.
Whale tourism is key to the ecology of the Atlantic Ocean, helping to support cetacean studies and conservation. Trips to sea are much more than simply whale and dolphin watching – in the capable hands of our resident marina biologists, you’ll learn about the natural habitats of whales, the behavioural patterns of dolphins, and you’ll hear how different cetacean species communicate.
You’ll also have some time on dry land to explore Madeira’s spectacular landscapes: the rugged river valleys of the east, the secluded Curral das Freiras mountain retreat, and the remote seacliffs and celebrated swimming spots in the north.
Your home for the week is the seafront Hotel Quinta da Penha da Franca – it’s a short stroll on the quayside to Funchal’s marina, the stepping off point for your trips to sea, and the Madeiran capital’s best restaurants and café bars are a short taxi ride away.
