Francisco explains how to find dolphins.


Funchal.


Chico controls the autopilot.


Pastries a plenty.

VipDolphins have two electric catamarans. The group size is small, like 15 people per boat. Francisco and Chico are very personable. There is an open bar with a helpful young lady who preferred to remain anonymous. We tried the local prosecco, the Madeira rum with passion fruit, and a local white wine.




We mostly hung out on the top deck talking about sharks with Chico who had seen a hammerhead very recently. Luckily sharks are rare at the surface and stick to the deeps.









After the dolphins we stopped for a swim. I couldn't wear the mask because of my glasses but my brother assured me there were lots of blue fishes.



The perfect balance of dolphins, alcohol and local knowledge!