Common dolphin are often seen during the winter and spring months in Madeira.

Common Dolphin

Delphinus delphis

Common dolphins are abundant around Madeira during the winter months. As their name suggests, they are the most abundant dolphin species in the worlds oceans. They have a unique coloration with a yellow side panel that helps in identifying the species. We typically see groups of 15-20 individuals, but they do form larger groups. In some areas of the world they can be observed during mass feeding events in groups of 5,000 or more dolphins.

Common dolphins are often seen during the winter on dolphin and whale watching tours from Funchal.

Species Information

The Common dolphin is an active and beautiful species of oceanic cetacean.

  • Length: up to 1.9 meters

  • Weight: approximately 115 kg

  • Lifespan: up to 35 years

  • Diet: mostly squid and small schooling fish

Common dolphin sightings data for the island of Madeira.

Sightings

Common dolphin sightings, which are most common during the winter in Madeira, are always exciting. They are an energetic species, often very inquisitive of the boat, coming over to investigate us on their own accord. This is the way we like to go dolphin and whale watching – when they come to see us too! While they are abundant during the winter months, we typically see the Common dolphin a few times every month of the Madeira whale watching season.

Common Dolphin Sightings Data