Dolphin watching is often on people’s lists of things to do before they die, and it is a truly rewarding experience for amateurs and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts alike. They are intelligent, inquisitive and playful animals, a delight to observe in their natural wild settings. While it is possible to look for them independently, joining an organised group will ensure the maximum possible number of sightings. Expert naturalist guides will know where to look for the different species, as well as the whales, sea birds and other animals that often inhabit the coastal areas they are found. Top destinations include Baja California and the Sea of Cortez, Madeira, the Maldives and Lyme Bay.
Baja California and the Sea of Cortez
Small-ship cruises to Baja California and the Sea of Cortez are almost unrivalled in the rich sea life that can be seen. Whale and Dolphin watching are the priorities, with species ranging from the great Blue Whale to the small Harbour Porpoise. Thousands of them swim in the Sea of Cortez, and it’s a guaranteed highlight for enthusiasts. They will also be able to see the Grey Whale, Elephant Seal, sea lions, turtles and a wide array of marine bird life. The beauty of the region and its warm weather make for a beautiful setting for wildlife watching.
Madeira
The waters around Madeira host many species for enthusiasts to sight on Dolphin watching excursions. They may see Risso’s, Bottlenose and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, as well as Short-finned Pilot Whale and – with a not inconsiderable amount of good fortune – Sperm Whale and Bryde’s Whale. The calm seas will be a boon to enthusiasts who like to photograph their sightings. Bird life is also well-represented, with Zino’s and Fea’s Petrels and Cory’s Shearwaters.
The Maldives
The sandy coral atolls of the Maldives are surrounded by turquoise seas, home to numerous tropical sea animals. Whale and Dolphin watching will be rewarded by sightings of Risso’s, Spinner and Fraser’s Dolphins, along with Dwarf Sperm Whale, Long-finned Pilot Whale, Bryde’s Whale and more of the dozen cetacean species known in this area. Superb snorkelling also gives marine wildlife enthusiasts the chance to explore the reefs and their stunning tropical fish, and even swim with Manta Rays.
Lyme Bay
Closer to home, the food-rich seas off Dorset’s Jurassic Coast are a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. There may be sightings of White-beaked, Bottlenose and Common Dolphins, Harbour Porpoise, as well as the possibility of some rare cetacean species. Sea birds also thrive in this area, with European Storm-petrel, Fulmar, Common Scoter, Guillemot and Sandwich Tern often seen. Groups may also go in search of the most elusive sea bird in Europe, the Balearic Shearwater.
