The encounter took place during a dolphin-watching tour organised by the company Ocean Adventures; footage captured by the crew quickly gained traction on social media.

The onboard team reported that, moments before the predator appeared, the dolphins usually accompanying the vessel displayed unusual behaviour, suddenly moving away from the area. Shortly after this movement, a large fin emerged near the bow.

Although the species has not been officially confirmed, those involved acknowledged the possibility that it was a great white shark, given observed characteristics such as the animal’s size and the whitish hue of its underbelly. Competent maritime authorities were duly notified of the incident.

This event aligns with the findings of a recent international scientific study, involving Portuguese experts, that highlights shifts in the geographical distribution of great white sharks driven by climate change and the resulting ocean warming.

As mesothermic animals capable of retaining internal heat, these specimens seek cooler waters to regulate their body temperature. While such sightings remain rare along the Portuguese coast, experts clarify that the occasional presence of these animals at sea poses no risk to the safety of beachgoers.