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Atlantic spotted dolphin

Found only in the Atlantic, this lively dolphin is one of the animals seen most often on summer trips from Calheta.

Around Madeira

When and where to see it

Atlantic spotted dolphins can be met in any month, but they are mostly seen from March to November, when the sea is warmer. They often travel in groups of dozens and are quick to join a boat.

They are at home in open water over the slopes around the island and often mix with bottlenose dolphins.

SpeciesJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Atlantic spotted dolphinJanuary: also seenFebruary: also seenMarch: main seasonApril: main seasonMay: main seasonJune: main seasonJuly: main seasonAugust: main seasonSeptember: main seasonOctober: main seasonNovember: main seasonDecember: also seen
On the water

How to recognise it

Adults are dark grey above and paler below, with a light blaze on the flank and white spots that spread over the body with age. Calves are born without spots. The beak is long and often white at the tip.

  • Spots grow with age

    Young animals are plain; old ones can look almost speckled white.

  • Slim beak

    Longer than a bottlenose dolphin’s, often white at the tip.

  • Pale blaze

    A light streak that sweeps up the side towards the fin.

Key facts
Length1.7–2.3 m
WeightUp to about 140 kg
FoodSmall fish and squid
DivesUsually short and shallow
GroupsUsually 5–50, sometimes more
IUCN Red ListLeast concern
Watching it well

Tips for a good sighting

Spotted dolphins love to ride the bow and leap beside the boat. The best views come when the boat keeps a steady speed and course; sudden turns break up the group.

How boats should behave around whales and dolphins is in responsible whale watching, and the trips from the marina are in whale and dolphin watching.

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