Dolphin spotting in the Costa del Sol is one of the most wonderful experiences you can enjoy during your getaway. Up and down the coast, you will find countless companies running trips that give you the opportunity to see creatures in their natural habitat, promising an incredible day out with your friends or family. Do you fancy it?
If you love the sea world, you’ll be interested in Senda Azul, a project that brings together all the tourist, heritage and cultural experiences related to the maritime world in the province of Malaga. A highlight is without doubt dolphin and whale spotting. And that’s because the Costa del Sol is one of the stand-out destinations in Spain to see these beautiful animals up close. The waters are home to countless species of dolphins and whales that will delight you with their elegant acrobatics in the water.
What species of dolphins and whales can you see in the Costa del Sol?
A large variety of cetaceans pass through the waters of the province of Malaga. Without doubt, one of the easiest to spot in the destination is the common dolphin (delphinus delphis). These intelligent marine mammals are known for their agility and impressive jumps out of the water. Watching a pod of common dolphins swimming next to a boat is a captivating and joyful experience.
Another species you can see in these waters is the common bottlenose dolphin (tursiops truncatus). These dolphins are known for their charisma and friendly behaviour, making them a favourite among visitors who are keen to respectfully interact with them. Common bottlenose dolphins tend to form big pods and can swim at great speed, offering spectators a fascinating sight.
Source: Costa Sol Cruceros
Beyond dolphins, in the Costa del Sol you can also see bigger cetaceans like long-finned pilot whales (globicephala melas) and fin whales (balaenoptera physalus). These impressive whales can end up measuring several metres in length and their presence in the waters is a wonderful and awesome sight.
Dolphin spotting excursions in the Costa del Sol
If you are keen to do some dolphin spotting in the Costa del Sol, you can take a boat excursion run by experts in sea life. These professionals know all the places where you are most likely to see the creatures and are committed to conserving the animals and their habitat. During your trip, you will have the opportunity to learn about the biology and the behaviour of cetaceans while enjoying the extraordinary beauty of the sea and the coast.
It’s important to point out that these excursions are conducted under strict environmental protection regulations to guarantee the cetaceans will not be disturbed. Respecting the creatures and their habitat is a must to conserve them and ensure that future generations can enjoy their presence in the Costa del Sol.
Costa Sol Cruceros
Costa Sol Cruceros is the only boat in the province that boasts a Blue Flag. The company runs excursions that leave from Puerto Marina in Benalmádena, and head off in the direction of the Torremolinos coast. A unique opportunity to experience being up close to the dolphins and seeing how they move and behave in the waters of the Alboran Sea.
Marbella Boat Charter
Marbella Boat Charter is a company specialising in boat charters in Marbella and Puerto Banús. Among its various services, the company runs dolphin spotting outings along the coast. It’s not difficult to locate a pod of the creatures swimming in the high seas and you’ll probably have the opportunity to interact with them too. To increase your chances of seeing the creatures, the boat will travel some 3 to 5 nautical miles from the coast to the deeper waters which the dolphins prefer as they are more likely to find food.
Source: Marbella Boat Charter
Turismo Marinero
Have you ever dreamt of sleeping on a boat under the stars? This is one of the activities the company Turismo Marinero offers: a sail in which you can enjoy the sunset from the Estepona bay, heading west to spot dolphins and other large marine mammals, complete with a delicious dinner on board and breakfast the following morning.
Zostera
Hop on board the Zostera catamaran to explore the eastern coast of the province of Malaga. Enjoy the shimmering sunshine reflected in the peaceful waters as you gaze at one of the best sunsets of your life, serenaded by live music. You will be able to take a dip in the high seas, spotting dolphins and other big marine mammals as you enjoy a delicious dish of paella made with the finest local products.
Dolphin spotting in the Costa del Sol promises to be a unique and enriching experience. Not only will you have the opportunity to connect with nature and sea life, you will also gain an understanding of the importance of protecting and conserving our fragile ecosystems. If you have the opportunity to visit the Costa del Sol, make sure you come and see these impressive creatures in their natural habitat.
