Set off from Vila da Calheta on H2o Madeira’s Cetos RIB boat for a thrilling two-hour search of whales and dolphins in their natural Atlantic home. Witness wild marine life with expert guides in a safe, engaging setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to stay seated with occasional standing on a moving boat.
Wildlife
History
Madeira’s volcanic origins have sculpted dramatic coastal cliffs and underwater features crucial to marine biodiversity.
Conservation
H2o Madeira supports sustainable wildlife watching by adhering to strict guidelines designed to protect sensitive marine species.
H2o Madeira
Set off from Vila da Calheta on H2o Madeira’s Cetos RIB boat for a thrilling two-hour search of whales and dolphins in their natural Atlantic home. Witness wild marine life with expert guides in a safe, engaging setting.
H2o Madeira is a whale- and dolphin-watching operator based in Vila da Calheta, Madeira. The company offers two signature 2-hour RIB boat trips aboard modern vessels: the Pakicetus and the Cetos. Each trip departs from the coastal waters of Vila da Calheta and explores the Atlantic Ocean in search of whales and dolphins, presenting opportunities to observe these marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Both experiences take place on modern RIB boats — the Pakicetus and the Cetos — designed to provide a stable, fast platform for marine wildlife viewing. Tours are presented in a friendly and safe environment, focused on passenger enjoyment while maintaining respectful distances to minimize disturbance to wildlife. H2o Madeira emphasizes clear communication with guests and practical safety measures on board to help visitors feel comfortable during open-ocean excursions.
H2o Madeira’s itinerary centers on responsible whale and dolphin watching around Madeira’s coastal waters, using boats suited to offshore conditions. The company’s offerings are suitable for adults and families seeking a marine wildlife experience without lengthy travel. Trips last approximately two hours, providing a compact yet immersive encounter with Atlantic marine life. H2o Madeira operates from Vila da Calheta and markets its RIB boat experiences to visitors to Madeira who want direct access to the sea, marine wildlife sightings, and a professionally organized short excursion.
Sightings depend on natural animal behavior and cannot be guaranteed. Guests are advised to bring appropriate outerwear for variable ocean conditions and to follow crew instructions for a comfortable, safe viewing experience.
Location
Vila da Calheta
Madeira's south coast base
Trip Length
2 hours
Compact, immersive outings
RIB Boats
Pakicetus & Cetos
Modern vessels for viewing
Suitable For
Adults & Families
Family-friendly ocean trips
Reserve seats on Pakicetus or Cetos for a friendly, safe Atlantic whale and dolphin watching experience departing Vila da Calheta.
Wear windproof clothing
The Atlantic breeze can be brisk even in summer, so layer up to stay comfortable on the water.
Bring binoculars
A good pair of binoculars enhances your chance to spot distant dolphins or whale spouts beyond the boat’s immediate range.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the ocean environment by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen products.
Stay seated and hold on
The RIB boat moves quickly and can be bumpy; safety first when chasing marine life.
Windbreaker jacket
Protects against wind and spray for a comfortable ride.
Binoculars
Helps spot whales and dolphins beyond the naked eye’s reach.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong sun while on open water.
summer
Camera with zoom lens
Captures impressive marine life photos from the boat.