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Madeira Whale Fest begins Wednesday with five days of science, conservation and art

Madeira Whale Fest runs from 7 to 11 October in Funchal and Caniçal with talks, film, photography, school activity and a public whale celebration.

Archive notice

Archived after its publication day. Search retains this original briefing for background and accountability.

Archived 12 September 2026
IN BRIEF

Activities take place at different venues and times. Check the organiser's current programme and any registration requirement before crossing the island.

  • The festival runs from Wednesday to Sunday in Funchal and Caniçal.
  • Mapping Whales is scheduled at Marina Cais 8 on Wednesday and Thursday.
  • The Arraial da Baleia is planned for Saturday afternoon at Museu da Baleia.
01

Five days across two locations

The programme begins with Mapping Whales at Marina Cais 8 in Funchal on Wednesday and Thursday. It also includes a school session, the film Before the Noise and a photography exhibition running from Friday to Sunday.

On Saturday, the Arraial da Baleia is planned from 14:00 to 19:00 at the Museu da Baleia in Caniçal, combining public engagement with the festival's conservation focus.

02

Build the visit around the specific activity

Venue, capacity, language and access conditions may differ between a talk, screening, school session and outdoor celebration. Confirm the current listing rather than assuming the full programme is available throughout each day.

For a boat or coastal activity, follow the operator's weather and safety decision. A conservation festival does not guarantee wildlife sightings, and responsible observation keeps distance from animals.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

What you can do now.

  1. 01

    Check the organiser's latest programme for the chosen activity.

  2. 02

    Confirm venue, registration, language and accessibility.

  3. 03

    Follow wildlife-observation and weather safety instructions.

Last reviewed6 October 2026

Written by the Portugal Hub Editorial Desk for international residents. This is general information; check legal, financial and safety decisions against the current facts of your case.

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