Dolphins in Cornwall
A Wavehunters boat trip is one of the best ways to see dolphins off the north coast of Cornwall
What is a dolphin?
Scientifically known as Delphinidae, Dolphins are aquatic mammals, and a part of the cetacean family. Rather than being a part of the fish species they are a part of the toothed whale family. These social mammals swim, play, protect and hunt for food as a Pod, communicating through their distinctive high pitch whistle.
What dolphin species live in Cornwall?
Cornwall is home to several species of Dolphin, including the Common Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, and Risso Dolphins. The most commonly spotted Dolphin is unsurprisingly the Common Dolphin however we are spotting more and more Risso Dolphins everyday.
Fun facts about dolphins
The favourite Wavehunter Dolphin fun fact is that they are more intelligent than humans, with larger brains! They are able to alternate which side of the brain they use while sleeping, allowing themselves to always have awareness of their surroundings.
Where can you see dolphins in Cornwall?
We regularly spot Dolphins off the coast of North Cornwall, particularly around Padstow and Port Isaac. The very best way to see them is on a Wavehunters Sea Safari boat trip from Rock or Padstow. This awesome boat trip will take in Daymer Bay, Polzeath beach, The Rumps, Pentire Head, the tranquil fishing village of Port Isaac and Puffin Island, all of which are good areas to see dolphins.
Dolphin FAQs
What time of year are dolphins in Cornwall?
While Dolphins can be spotted all year round, they do favour warmer waters meaning the best time of year to see Dolphins is around April to September.
What is the best time to see dolphins?
Dolphins can be spotted all day long from the crack of dawn, all the way until last light. They are active swimmers and will spend their days swimming, playing and exploring the coast hunting for food.
Do dolphins come close to shore?
Dolphins are an offshore species ,but will frequently come close to shore to feed (within a mile or so). You occasionally can see them swimming in the surf line up too but this is often in more tropical waters that have larger breaking waves.
Are we guaranteed to see Dolphins?
You are not guaranteed to see dolphins like any wildlife, however you have a very high chance on a Wavehunters Sea Safari. The Skippers know how to spot them, with common areas as close as a few miles off of Trevose Head being one of our Dolphin hot spots!
Where do Dolphins sleep?
Dolphins will sleep in a similar manner to Whales, meaning they often rest motionless at the surface of the water to take in air. In shallow water, they may also swim very slowly and steadily too.
What’s a baby dolphin called?
A baby dolphin is called a calf, with mature females also being called ‘cows’ and male Dolphins nicknamed ‘Bulls’.
What is a group of dolphins called?
A group of dolphins is called a pod. This isn’t exclusively used for dolphins but also used for whales – after all they are in the same family.
How long until a baby dolphin grows into an adult dolphin?
A dolphin will be a baby or a calf until it leaves its mothers side after 3-6 years. Some may argue that it’s at the 5-12 year mark when they start to reproduce. However this depends on the sex of the Dolphin with females reaching maturity much sooner.
How long can dolphins stay underwater?
Depending on the type of Dolphin, they can stay underwater for 12- 20 minutes. This means that if Dolphins are in the area, you’re likely to see them on one of our Sea Safaris!
How do dolphins sleep?
Just like whales, Dolphins can switch off half their brain as they sleep, leaving the other half alert to danger. This is an evolutionary adaptation that has enabled them to never lose consciousness whilst still being able to rest. They will appear either motionless or swimming very slowly at the surface of the water.
What to do if i see an injured dolphin?
If you spot an injured dolphin that you believe is alive, it is advised to call the whale or dolphin hotline. CSIP stranded whale or dolphin hotline -0800 652 0333. Keep a good distance between yourself and the Dolphin, making sure other animals such as dogs or humans stay clear.