Madeira Whale Museum
Museu da Baleia da Madeira
A modern museum in Caniçal, once a whaling village, that uses life-size whale models to showcase Madeira's marine life and whaling history.
Caniçal was once Madeira's whaling base, and whaling there did not end until 1981. The museum building is modern. Its main gallery hangs life-size models of sperm and blue whales, introducing more than 20 species of whales and dolphins found in the waters around Madeira, along with deep-sea creatures and conservation research. Another hall tells the history of whaling, with whaling boats and tools, old photographs and films. Entry is about €10, and the museum is closed on Mondays. It is about 10 minutes by car from Ponta de São Lourenço, so you can visit both in one day.
Opening hours
Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Machico
- Ponta de São Lourenço
- Cristo Rei do Garajau
- Palheiro Gardens
- Balcões Viewpoint
- Santana Traditional Houses
- Madeira Botanical Garden
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden & Monte Toboggan