Dolphin spotting boat ride

Riding on the boat to spot Dolphins in Arabian sea is another great attraction that Goa has to offer to its tourist. Spotting Dolphin is just a part of the overall fun package as this gets clubbed with other elements such as boat ride to a farther point in sea, views of other interesting sites along the sea borders and music inside the boat. Dolphin spotting rides are held during day time and is available at various beaches (Calangute, Baga). You can also take the ride from Miramar beach in Panjim which is a little cheaper than Calangute/Baga but equally good. All dolphin spotting rides are similar and here I describe the ride that I have taken from Miramar beach.

Click here to watch a small video of Dolphin spotting ride

The boats for ride are stationed at the right most end of the beach. You need to get walk on beach towards the right side, where you will find them. The ticket is Rs. 300/- per person and is fixed for a ride of about an hour. From Calangute/Baga the price is Rs. 400/- per person. There are 2-3 boat operators but all have same prices. Ticket counters are also available in Panjim city, but you need not buy it in advance. After buying the ticket, you will have to wait till your boat arrives back from the previous trip. Some time it can get confusing that exactly which boat you have to board, hence you better ask the ticket seller about identification of your boat.

Boat for Dolphin tour

Watch a small video of dolphin spotting ride

Once the boat stops at the shore you have to board it and occupy a seat, and wear a life jacket kept there. The boat usually has a shade over the top to prevent from direct sun. It has a capacity of seating around 40 people at a time. People usually prefer to take the seat on water side to get a better look. But this really doesn’t matter, as once inside the water every body stands and comes to the edge of boat to locate Dolphins. There is a guide also on boat with a mic who will help you in spotting Dolphins and also entertain you. Music will be played and the guide will encourage tourists and kids to dance and enjoy. Alcohol and water bottles are also kept in boat for buying. Overall atmosphere inside the boat is fun-filled.

Best view you can get of Dolphin

Spotting Dolphins can be tricky as you have to be very observant and focussed. Usually they are seen when a part of their body come out of water and they take a dip back inside water. Within second the Dolphin will be gone. It can happen 8-10 times during the entire ride. Also, you have to carefully look in all directions. People help each other to point out the direction where they saw the Dolphin and you can patiently wait for its next appearance. Most of the tourists will be able to see Dolphin 2-3 times. Some operators also offers money back guarantee, if Dolphin not spotted, but don’t take it very seriously. Whether you were able to spot Dolphin or not, your overall experience will be good. The guide will also show you different attractions on sea border such as Aguada fort, a large trans-ship, the jail and others.

Tips:

1. Carry something to munch as you won’t get anything inside boat except drinks

2. Best time to spot Dolphin is in afternoon when it is sunny.

3. No need to do advance booking, as it may turn costly. Just go to the beach and you will find them looking for tourists for the ride.

Quick facts

1. Where: Miramar beach, Calangute beach, Baga beach

2. Price: Varies with operator. But you will be able to get in range of Rs. 300 -400 per person for 1 hour tour. Another package is of Rs. 1000 per person by John's boat tours from Candolim beach, for a duration of 4-5 hours. 

3. Timings: Day time on all days