Dolphin Watching & Conservation - Dolphins in the Gulf of Catania
Overview
We are the only ones to carry out eco-tourist activity of observation of cetaceans in the Gulf of Catania, respecting the international code of good conduct approved by the Agreement for the Conservation of Cetaceans in the Black Sea, in the Mediterranean Sea and in the contiguous Atlantic areas, as well as "Friend of the Sea" certificates thanks to our low impact on the environment.
Safety and professionalism in the navigation and monitoring of dolphins distinguish us, thanks to our crew always made up of technical skippers from the Italian motorboat federation and marine biologists with many years of experience in monitoring and protecting cetaceans in the Mediterranean.
Your contribution will be used to support the monitoring and conservation of cetaceans in the Gulf, and will allow the disadvantaged children of Catania to be hosted on board free of charge during our events dedicated to the protection of the sea and its vulnerable species.
What's Included
- Binoculars and cetacean recognition cards
- Boat fuel
- Dinghy or motor boat or sailboat rental of 7.20 m or 11 m depending on the number of passengers (with safety equipment and life jackets for all passengers)
- Informative briefing on cetaceans and the monitored area
- Skipper and guide on board
- Shuttle Service
Meeting Location
Lungomare Scardamiano
5A, 95021 Aci Castello CT, Italy
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Navigation in the waters of the Gulf of Catania in search of free dolphins, guided by local experts.
With the Etna volcano always dominant in the background, you will be able to admire while sailing the major points of geological and naturalistic interest on the Catania coast (depending on the tour of the day: Brucoli, Catania, Ognina, Aci Trezza, Santa Tecla, Santa Maria La Scala, Stazzo , Riposto, Taormina).
We will head out to sea entertained by the precious information provided by the guides, scanning the horizon, and proceeding at a low cruising speed, until we spot the cetaceans of the Gulf (80% chance). The experts will introduce you by name to the dolphins cataloged during their research, and will illustrate their inevitable aerial behaviors while you will be ready to immortalize them with photos and videos, and participate in the data collection of the day. After leaving the pack, we will return to the port of departure.
WE ARE THE ONLY ONE IN SICILY TO OWN THE HIGH QUALITY WHALE WATCHING MARK RELEASED BY ACCOBAMS! During sightings, we apply an international code of good conduct in order to minimize the disturbance we cause to the animals.
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (10)
Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-120101P2
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.78 out of 5 stars based on 59 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (10)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.
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As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Dolphin Watching & Conservation – Dolphins in the Gulf of Catania. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.
Dec 2022If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Binoculars and cetacean recognition cards.
- Boat fuel.
- Dinghy or motor boat or sailboat rental of 7.20 m or 11 m depending on the number of passengers (with safety equipment and life jackets for all passengers).
- Informative briefing on cetaceans and the monitored area.
- Skipper and guide on board.
- Shuttle Service.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Dolphin Watching & Conservation - Dolphins in the Gulf of Catania is as follows:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Dolphin Watching & Conservation – Dolphins in the Gulf of Catania will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- Binoculars and cetacean recognition cards
- Boat fuel
- Dinghy or motor boat or sailboat rental of 7.20 m or 11 m depending on the number of passengers (with safety equipment and life jackets for all passengers)
- Informative briefing on cetaceans and the monitored area
- Skipper and guide on board
- Shuttle Service
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
