Sighting of bottlenose dolphins in the Mediterranean

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Where can I see dolphins in Perpignan? Sighting of bottlenose dolphins in the Mediterranean Escape for an exceptional morning off the coast of Canet

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Where can I see dolphins in Perpignan on the Mediterranean?

Where to see dolphins in Perpignan? Escape to the rhythm of the wind. Wondering where to see dolphins in Perpignan? Just 15 minutes from the Catalan city, the port of Canet-en-Roussillon is the starting point for an exceptional marine adventure.

Aboard the Navivoile, we favor sailing for a silent and environmentally friendly approach. The bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus ) is a frequent visitor to our coastline, regularly seen between Port-la-Nouvelle and Cerbère . Accompanied by a naturalist guide , you will learn to understand the behavior of these cetaceans in the heart of the Gulf of Lion Marine Natural Park.

With a 99% success rate for the past 30 years (and 100% in 2024 and 2025 ), this boat trip to encounter the bottlenose dolphin is the ultimate experience on the Catalan coast for observing these animals in their natural habitat. An educational and contemplative immersion to share with family or fellow enthusiasts.

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Bottlenose dolphin sighting departing from Canet-en-Roussillon – Morning

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Where to see dolphins around Perpignan? A change of scenery guaranteed.

Wondering where to see dolphins around Perpignan ? To experience this magical encounter, the best option is to head out to sea. Dolphins aren't visible from the beach, which is why we sail off the coast of Perpignan, in the rich waters of the Gulf of Lion.

Thus, we regularly observe them between Port-la-Nouvelle , Leucate , and all the resorts along the Côte Radieuse (Barcarès, Torreilles, Sainte-Marie-la-Mer , Canet-en-Roussillon, Saint-Cyprien) and the Côte Vermeille. Consequently, it is in this vast area that the bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus ) resides, the only truly coastal cetacean species in the Mediterranean.

A dolphin watching excursion departing from Canet-en-Roussillon

This dolphin watching excursion near Perpignan lasts between 4 and 5 hours depending on the season. We also offer an afternoon dolphin watching excursion in Canet, as you can observe dolphins at any time of day.

On board the Navivoile catamaran, a naturalist accompanies you and passionately shares their knowledge. In this way, you benefit from an accessible and enriching approach to gain a new perspective on the sea.

Watching dolphins responsibly: the High Quality Whale-Watching® label

This outing is part of a committed approach. The Navivoile catamaran holds the High Quality Whale-Watching® label . This certification, recognized by ACCOBAMS , guarantees a respectful approach to cetaceans. Therefore, we maintain safe distances, we do not pursue whales, and we give absolute priority to the well-being of wildlife.

Take your memories home with you: your photos are free.

Our naturalist guide captures the highlights of the encounter. This way, you can enjoy the present moment without constantly looking at your camera. Furthermore, the guide shares the photos of your observations from the outing with you free of charge. Finally, you leave with a lasting memory!

EFGL: A look at the future of the Mediterranean

During your excursion, you can see the wind turbines of the EFGL (Floating Wind Turbines of the Gulf of Lion) project. They are located 16 km off the coast of Leucate and Barcarès. This wind farm demonstrates the Occitanie/Pyrénées-Méditerranée Region 's commitment to reconciling human activity with respect for the marine environment.

The itinerary of your dolphin excursion in Canet

To maximize your chances of an encounter, we first head towards the feeding areas. Meanwhile, our experienced observers carefully scan the horizon. As soon as a blow or a fin appears, the captain reduces speed for a smooth approach.

What you will discover:

• Bottlenose Dolphins interacting, hunting, or resting
• Social behaviors : jumps, games and mother-child bond
• Naturalist expertise : identifying the species and understanding their behavior
• Diverse wildlife : seabirds, bluefin tuna, sunfish, etc…

Reliability and magic of the wild encounter

Our recent data confirms the exceptional consistency of our outings . Indeed, we have a historical average of 99% success, with a perfect record of 100% observations over the last two seasons. However, we operate within an open sanctuary where wildlife roams freely.

Therefore, although nature remains unpredictable, each departure from Canet becomes an extraordinary human adventure . This catamaran cruise guarantees a memorable interlude in a magnificent Mediterranean setting.

What is the best time of year?
The bottlenose dolphin resides here year-round. However, the period from April to October offers the best sailing conditions.

What if we don't see any dolphins?
With a 99% success rate over the past 30 years, a missed encounter is rare. However, should one occur, you would enjoy a magnificent narrated nature cruise.

Is it suitable for families?
Absolutely! The Navivoile is stable and safe. Furthermore, the educational program raises children's awareness of marine conservation.

Why the Navivoile?
For our “Slow Move” approach. Indeed, we favour sailing to guarantee total silence and respect the tranquility of the animals.

If this cruise doesn't quite meet your expectations, feel free to browse all our sea excursions to find the perfect boat trip for you. You might also be tempted by the bottlenose dolphin watching excursion at sunrise from the port of Canet-en-Roussillon!

Give this cruise as a gift , or take advantage of our other gift card options to please someone without worrying about the date.

Ready to set sail? Quickly book your morning dolphin excursion in Canet online on this website.

Practical Information & Advice

Payment methods

Online booking : It is not mandatory to print your "order form". You can simply write down the reservation name and order number on a piece of paper.
Accepted payment methods: Credit card (ticket office and website), Cash, (1) ANCV paper holiday vouchers (ticket office only) and (2) ANCV Connect Holiday Vouchers. Bank checks are not accepted.

(1) ANCV paper holiday vouchers:

If you are not in town, we invite you to make an online reservation by credit card. Upon boarding, you will then present your paper ANCV holiday vouchers . A few days after boarding, we will process the refund of the initial card payment (minus the 3,5% commission). Simply specify this in the "comments" section when making your reservation. In the event of a cancellation without the possibility of rescheduling, we will return your paper ANCV holiday vouchers to you.

(2) ANCV Connect Holiday Vouchers:

Available on the website or at the ticket office. In case of cruise cancellation without the possibility of rescheduling, two options are available: a voucher valid for 18 months or a refund by bank transfer (please provide your bank details) – note that a 3,5% commission will be deducted from the amount paid.

What to expect & Health tips

Equipment: Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a windbreaker. Don't forget your charged camera! For observing the sea, binoculars are useful for scanning the horizon.
Hydration: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase on board. Excessive alcohol consumption is dangerous to your health; please drink responsibly.
Seasickness: We strongly recommend that people prone to seasickness take an anti-nausea medication (such as Mercalm 30 minutes beforehand or Cocculine the day before). Have a substantial breakfast, avoid fatty foods, and spend time outdoors.

Onboard Restaurant & Bar

For your comfort, a Snack-Bar and light catering service is open at all times on all our cruises.

Picnic : Allowed under the client's responsibility (hygiene). Bringing outside drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) on board is not permitted.
Hydration: As an exception, you are allowed to bring your own personal water bottles. Important note: The water available at the ship's toilets and water points is not potable. Fresh mineral water is available for purchase at the bar.
By booking this cruise, the customer agrees to comply with these safety and hygiene instructions on board.

Accessibility and Family

Disability: For people using wheelchairs, please note that the toilets are not wheelchair accessible, as they are too narrow.
Parents: Children of all ages are welcome.
Accompaniment: Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Pets

Pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are accepted given that the duration of the voyage remains bearable for your little companions.

Safety instructions on board

Tobacco: In accordance with decree 2006-1386, smoking is prohibited on the decks and in the gondola (for fire safety and comfort reasons). An ashtray is available at the rear, near the toilets: smoking is permitted within a 2-meter radius, provided it does not disturb other passengers. Never throw ashes or cigarette butts on the deck or into the sea. Vaping is permitted ONLY on the outside decks.
Behavior : Running or jumping on the nets is prohibited. Remove your shoes before climbing onto the nets (max 6 people/net). Always hold on with one hand (“one hand for yourself, one hand for the boat”).
Swimming: Not permitted on this cruise. Furthermore, swimming with cetaceans in a marine protected area is strictly prohibited and severely punished by law.

Parking in Canet-en-Roussillon

The PORT/ONIRIA car parks are the closest to the ferry terminal. They are subject to a fee in June and September (9:00-12:00 and 14:00-20:00) and in July and August (9:00-00:24) – located between 50 and 100 meters away (a 2-minute walk). The city of Canet has implemented a new mobile parking payment service using the Flowbird app . Outside of these periods, from June 1st to September 30th, the PORT/ONIRIA car parks are free.

Tips for paying less for parking from June 1st to September 30th:

Park along theCaptain Delestrain Avenue (towards Le Brasilia campsite) then use the Pass'Port Shuttle (€0,50/trip).
"Santorini" parking lot : Free, located 1200m from the pier (17 min walk).

⚠️ PARKING INFORMATION: During the Sea and Fishermen's Festival (August 12-15) , access and parking conditions (temporary restrictions) around the PORT/ONIRIA parking lots will be modified by municipal decree. We advise you to disregard certain signs or familiar navigation systems (especially on your GPS ) and to use the Santorin Parking lot to ensure a smooth boarding experience.

Exit conditions

📞 Important information: If you book this cruise, please be sure to contact us at +33 (0)6 23 20 69 76 between 18:00 PM and 20:00 PM the day before your departure. Your trip will then be confirmed or cancelled depending on the latest marine weather information.

Weather & Technical: Changes to the program may occur depending on the weather or any technical problems encountered.
Cancellation: In the event of cancellation on our part, the outing will either be postponed or fully refunded.
Absence : Any passenger who is absent at the precise departure time will not be reimbursed.

Please note: Boarding takes place 20 minutes before departure . For the exact day and time, please refer to the Schedule/Booking section.