How to see dolphins in Martinique ?

You are planning to spend your vacations in Martinique and wish to discover all the treasures of the island? An unforgettable visit to Martinique is the sea trip to see the cetaceans. You can contemplate several species of dolphins in Martinique, in protected areas and during a sea trip respectful of these marine mammals. Here is all the information you need to know to go dolphin watching in Martinique.

Which species of dolphins can be seen in Martinique?

Martinique is lucky enough to see in its waters about twenty species of cetaceans, including dolphins. Among these cetaceans, some are here all year round, while others are here to feed, reproduce and give birth. Depending on the season, we can also see beaked and humpback whales, as well as sperm whales.

Concerning dolphins, there are five main species in Martinique:

• Pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata)
• Fraserian/Borneo dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei)
• Electra's dolphin (Peponocephala Electra)
• Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
• Short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus)

Fraser's dolphin

It is also called the Borneo dolphin. As an adult, it can measure up to 2.7 meters, for 200 kg. It likes deep water and can dive up to 600 meters. It can be recognized by a black border on the side, which starts from the mouth and follows the length of the body until the anus. Furthermore, it is a rather discreet cetacean that is less often seen.

Pantropical spotted dolphin

These cetaceans generally live in large groups, from 5 to 15 members in general, but much larger groups can be observed, sometimes up to 100 specimens. This dolphin can measure up to 2.60 meters and weigh up to 120 kg. It is a very sociable marine mammal that can frequent other species of dolphins and tunas. It is very lively and agile, making quite high jumps. It is the species that we meet most often in Martinique.

Dolphin of Electra

This dolphin is quite big since it can measure up to 2.50 meters, for a weight varying between 160 and 225 kg. It is also very sociable and can mix with other species such as the Fraser's dolphin or the pilot whale. It can be recognized by its oval-shaped head. It is a little rarer to see it, because it prefers deep waters and is rather observed at large.

The bottlenose dolphin

The bottlenose dolphin is also called bottlenose dolphin, whistling dolphin or Tursiops. It lives up to its name of bottlenose dolphin. Indeed, it is really imposing, up to 4 meters long and up to 650 kg. In general, it can be seen along the coast. It is a species that has often been observed in captivity. It is this species of dolphin that is sometimes used in movies, for example in "Flipper the Dolphin". A particularly friendly dolphin, which seems to smile with the folds of its rostrum.

Pilot whale

Sometimes called the pilot dolphin, it can be recognized by its very large size. This cetacean can measure up to 6 meters long, for a weight of 3 tons. It is therefore the biggest dolphin that you can observe in Martinique, during a trip at sea. It is a very sociable animal which lives in groups of 10 to 30 individuals in general, but sometimes more. In addition to its imposing size, it is also recognized by the shape of its head which is round and the absence of visible rostrum.

The best spots to see dolphins in Martinique

Generally speaking, dolphins are visible in 95% of the trips. The Caribbean coast and in particular the North Caribbean coast are the most favorable with calm waters. The best spots are located in the northern bay of Fort de France, off Le Carbet, Bellefontaine and Saint Pierre. This area is a privileged observation site in a protected natural reserve AGOA.

Ideal conditions for dolphin watching in Martinique

You will be able to go on sea excursions all year round to see the dolphins of Martinique. Nevertheless, one season is more favorable, the dry period or Lent period, from November to April. The other season, from May to October, is the wet season or wintering period. It is less favorable, but the sea excursions are still done and you can see dolphins.

In Martinique, you will see marine mammals in ideal conditions. You will be able to observe dolphins on the Caribbean coast, in an AGOA Protected Marine Area. The main advantages for these animals in Martinique are the shallow and warm waters. Moreover, it is a protected area so there are few boats, which avoids that the dolphins are disturbed.

You may wonder if you can swim with the dolphins. Unfortunately, this is not possible, in order to preserve their well-being. Nevertheless, you will see them quite close. You will be able to admire their aquatic ballet and see them evolve in a wild state in their natural environment. This show will leave you with magnificent and unforgettable memories.

The sea trip, by boat, is the ideal way to observe dolphins in Martinique. But if you are lucky, it is possible during a swim on the coast that dolphins approach you. It happens sometimes to swimmers, for their greatest happiness!

How does this sea trip take place?

For this sea trip to meet the dolphins in Martinique, you will take place on board covered boats of about 10 meters. These boats have a small capacity, generally 10 to 12 passengers maximum. The fact of using small boats is less disturbing for the dolphins. Moreover, for the visitors, the small group is more peaceful and intimate, more pleasant. Also, it allows to have a more privileged contact with the guide and to ask questions to better understand how the dolphins live.

Departures are usually early in the morning from the Marina de la Pointe du Bout in Trois-îlets. It is necessary to foresee the whole morning for this excursion at sea. These excursions are supervised by eco-responsible guides, respectful of the environment, of the marine fauna, and who know perfectly the sea and the cetaceans. During the navigation period that leads you to the observation sites, you will be able to admire the beauty of the coastline, from Pointe du Bout to Saint-Pierre, without forgetting the view of Mount Pelee in the distance.

For this fantastic sea excursion to discover the dolphins of Martinique, remember to bring your camera and camcorder. But don't forget your bathing suit, towel, sun cream, cap and sunglasses. Depending on the package you choose, you can enjoy a bonus swim in a heavenly cove of the island of flowers.

If you plan to go on vacation in Martinique, this activity is a must. You will have the pleasure to go to sea and discover the local marine fauna. Moreover, you will have the privilege to meet dolphins in the wild in their natural environment. The excursions are respectful of the marine fauna, that's why we approach by boat and gently and it is not allowed to swim with the dolphins. The activity will delight young and old, an unforgettable experience for all generations! So, during your stay on the island of flowers, do not forget to go to meet the dolphins!