Dolphin watching tours in Martinique

You plan to spend your holidays in Martinique and wish to discover all the treasures of the island? An unforgettable visit is to go out to sea to see the dolphins.

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 fortunate 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, beaked and humpback whales, as well as sperm whales, can also be seen.

There are five main species of dolphins in Martinique:

1. Pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata)
2. Fraserian/Borneo dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei)
3. Electra's dolphin (Peponocephala Electra)
4. Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
5. Short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus)

Fraser's dolphin 

Also known as the Bornean dolphin. As an adult, it can measure up to 2.7 metres in length and weigh 200 kg. It likes deep water and can dive up to 600 metres. It can be recognized by a black stripe on its flank, which starts at the mouth and follows the length of its body to the anus. 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 metres and weigh up to 120 kg.

It is a very sociable marine mammal that can frequent other species of dolphins and tuna. It is very lively and agile, making high jumps. Furthermore, it is the species that we meet most typically in Martinique.

Electra's dolphin 

This one 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 FraserFraser's dolphin or the pilot whale. It can be recognized by its oval-shaped head. Likewise, it is a little rarer to see it, because it prefers deep waters and is rather observed at large.

Bottlenose dolphin 

The bottlenose dolphin is also called bottlenose dolphin, whistling dolphin or Tursiops. The bottlenose dolphin lives up to its name. Indeed, it is really imposing, up to 4 meters long and up to 650 kg. In general, we meet it along the coasts. 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.

Short-finned 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 and weigh up to 3 tonnes. It is therefore the largest dolphin that you will be able to observe in Martinique, during a sea trip.

It is a very sociable animal that lives in groups of 10 to 30 individuals in general, but sometimes more. In addition to its imposing size, it can also be recognized by the shape of its head, which is round, and by the absence of a 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 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 trips 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 made, and you will be able to 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 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. This sometimes happens to bathers, for their greatest happiness!

How does this sea trip work? 

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 use of small boats is less disturbing for the dolphins. Moreover, for visitors, the small group is more peaceful and intimate, more pleasant. Also, it allows you 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 plan the whole morning for this sea excursion. These sea trips are supervised by eco-responsible guides, respectful of the environment and the marine fauna, and who know the sea and the cetaceans perfectly. They will be able to identify the dolphin species and explain their behaviour.

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 Pelée in the distance.

For this fantastic excursion at sea to discover the dolphins of Martinique, remember to take a camera. 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 on the island of flowers.

If you are planning a trip to Martinique, this activity is a must. You will have the pleasure to go to see and discover the local marine fauna. Moreover, you will have the privilege to meet wild dolphins in their natural environment.

The excursions are respectful of the marine fauna, that is 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!