Few ocean experiences can beat the thrill of snorkelling with dolphins. These curious creatures are a joy to witness, and swimming with them tops the bucket list for many marine lovers. But this incredible opportunity also comes with responsibility. While there are no universal rules governing dolphin interactions, reputable operators agree on one thing: the dolphins' well-being always comes above human entertainment. Want to make sure your dolphin swim is ethical and unforgettable? Read on for our top tips...
Code of conduct
Boat behaviour
The best practices for snorkelling with dolphins begin before you even enter the water. Ethical tour operators will adopt dolphin-friendly boat behaviours, using only one to two boats at a time with no more than ten happy passengers onboard. Engines should be cut completely within 50 metres of dolphins, and boats will drift passively to avoid blocking a pod's movement.
When to enter the water
So, you're ready to jump in and start swimming with dolphins. But when's the right time? You should avoid entering the water if dolphins are feeding, protecting calves or displaying behaviours such as sudden dives or abrupt turns. This avoids disrupting their natural activities and ensures the safety of both you and these majestic marine creatures.
How to act in the water
There are a few more rules to follow once you're in the water. As with all marine life, you should never touch a dolphin (no matter how soft its skin looks), and, instead, let the naturally curious creatures approach you on their own terms. Stay nice and still, as loud noises or attempts to chase the dolphins will only scare them off. Thinking of taking a selfie? Think again, as pole-mounted cameras and selfie sticks can be seen as threatening.
Where to snorkel with dolphins
Azores
The azure waters of the Azores are one of the best places for snorkelling with dolphins in the world. The nine islands are home to over 11 species, with pods reaching up to 1,000 dolphins. Expect to swim alongside the endemic bottlenose and Risso's dolphins all year round, with Atlantic spotted and striped dolphins saying hello during the warmest months too.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia is one of the few destinations where strict local guidelines around dolphin encounters are enforced (they're a protected species, after all). Along with the islands' remote and pristine waters, this makes French Polynesia a haven for swimming with dolphins; visit between August and November to spot spinner and rough-toothed dolphins in the calm waters. This also coincides with humpback whale season, so you can (hopefully) spot two impressive marine species for the price of one…
New Zealand
New Zealand prioritises conservation and animal welfare, making it a fantastic way to encounter wild dolphins ethically. Head to Kaikoura to meet the playful dusky dolphins, visit Akaroa to marvel at Hector's dolphins (the smallest and rarest of them all) and take a boat offshore to see large pods of common dolphins.
