Dolphin Watching

There are three species of dolphins that can be found in the Adriatic: the bottlenose dolphin , the striped dolphin, and the common dolphin. The bottlenose dolphin is the only cetacean species regulary present in the coastal areas of the northern Adriatic.

What is it all about?
In the waters around Pula, their habitats are mainly near coastal areas, particularly by the islands, and are therefore subjected to strong pressure from human activities. As they do not have a natural predator in the Adriatic, the main threats to common bottlenose dolphins are the overfishing of their prey, the presence of fishing nets and tourism. Increased number of tourist vessels and underwater noise makes that the dolphins preferred different areas during peak tourist season.

They are often seen in pods, usually of less than a dozen individuals, but occasionally made up of as many as 50 individuals. Their attitude towards boats can range from a complete indifference to enthusiastic interaction – you may witness their incredible acrobatic skills such as leaping (as high as six meters); spyhopping (raising the head vertically out of the water); breaching (leaping clear of the water and landing with a loud splash); bow riding (swimming in the wave in front of the bow); tail-slapping (slapping the tail on the surface).

Responsible watching
As dolphin watching can be a stress factor for the cetaceans, responsible watching is a key prerequisite for respectful encounters for the years to come. This requires local operators to adhere to best practice guidance when they encounter cetaceans.

Please, remember that we’re the visitors, the dolphins are our hosts.

It’s important to choose a responsible dolphin watching operator which strongly maintains rigid standards and adopts a highly responsible mode of operation in order to reduce negative impact to a minimum.

Dolphin watching in Pula
With their playful and acrobatic natures, bottlenose dolphins bring a smile to the faces of all who watch them, sometimes we just can’t tear ourselves away from the dolphins. Whether you’re just visiting Pula for a day, you should not let this opportunity pass you by!

We offer sustainable and responsible Dolphin Watching boat trips for up to 12 people, small enough we can ensure you have a great time! Our friendly and professional crew will always give their best to bring you close to these fascinating dolphins. And chances are good…