This is one of the major attractions at Dona Paula. With prior booking, one can indulge in a cruise ride in the ocean to a point of dolphin sighting. This is a pretty luxurious ride, where they serve you snacks and other beverages on the ride. They also have a pick up and drop service in a boat.
Goa
DOLPHIN RIDES IN GOA
Goa has been the center of attraction for all the tourists in India and beyond for the past few years. The pristine beaches, the hippie vibe and the young, electric atmosphere are some of the things that build up Goa’s charm. What makes Goa even more popular is that it has something in store for everyone – from the parties, clubs and amazing nightlife for the young generation to a calm, relaxing vacation at the beach for the senior citizens. Amongst all the amazing adventures one can have in Goa, there is one common denominator – the beaches. There are so many things to do in Goa while on the beach, from thrilling activities like scuba diving and parasailing to leisure activities like relaxing on the shacks and sunbathing. But one such activity which has been attracting quite a few notable audience is the dolphin ride in Goa. There are a few places in Goa where one can spot dolphins, and this blog will help you to choose the best spot.
What is Dolphin rides?
There are two species of dolphins which are a common sighting in Goa – Finless Porpoises and Humpback dolphins. The Indo-Pacific Humpback dolphins are mainly coastal and are found in tropical and subtropical regions of South and South East Asia. They are grey colored with pink patches. They are called humpback dolphins because of the hump behind their dorsal fin. They are one of the most social and friendly species of dolphins. The Finless Porpoises are very shy, and are black to gray in color. They are not so friendly and are difficult to photograph as they do not surface high out of the water and are very fast.
Must visit places for Dolphin Rides in Goa
Goa was a popular destination in India for dolphin-watching and dolphin rides. I can suggest a few places that were known for offering dolphin rides and dolphin-watching tours in Goa:
Sinquerim Beach
An institute named Atlantis water sports offers dolphin rides all day long at the Sinquerim jetty. Their safari usually lasts for about 45 minutes, and one can also enjoy stargazing at The Millionaire’s Palace, Aguada fort, the Portuguese jail and the lighthouse. They also offer a pickup and drop service on special requests.
Candolim Beach
Candolim is one of the most popular destinations in Goa and one can indulge in a dolphin ride here at the beach. A private institute named Goa Tour Planners offer a 20 seat boat ride in the Arabian Sea. The tour lasts for about 45 minutes and takes place at the Candolim beach or Coco beach as per your convenience.
The Dolphin Cruise
Cavelossim Beach
White sandy beach and black lava rocks equals Cavelossim. This is yet another popular destination for a boat ride. There are quite a few dolphin sightings on this boat ride here.
Palolem Beach
Palolem beach is known for maintaining its natural beauty. Amongst all the other famous activities in Palolem, dolphin sighting is yet another important attraction. One can find a few private instructors and institutes here for a dolphin ride.
Prices For Dolphin Rides In Goa
While there are many spots in Goa where one can enjoy a dolphin ride, these are all private institutes and even though they charge approximately the same amount for a ride, these prices are completely dependent on them and are expected to rise during the peak visitors’ season in Goa.
- he average cost for a dolphin ride is Rs. 500 per person.
- Children above the age of 5 can be included in the ride, with proper adult supervision.
- There are dedicated slots throughout the day usually between 9 AM and 5 PM, and one can book any slot according to his convenience.
- The charges are inclusive of rental equipment like a life jacket etc.
- A dolphin tour usually lasts for about 45 minutes to 60 minutes.
- If you opt for a cruise ride at Dona Paula, the average cost per person is Rs. 1700 per person.
- The cruise ride lasts for about 4-5 hours.
- A few institutes offer a pickup and drop service from your hotel for an extra charge.
- Dolphin rides can be a group activity or a private tour.
Making The Plan
Before booking a dolphin ride, one must keep in mind these things:
- The institute always sends an instructor or a guide along with you on the boat. He takes care of all the management during the ride, although it is suggested to listen to his instructions pretty seriously.
- Instruct your instructor about any allergies or fears you have before the boat ride.
- Wear the life jackets all the time during the boat ride. Do not take it off at any point and handle them with utmost care.
- Do not try to feed or touch the dolphins at any point.
- Wear light, casual clothes for the ride.
- Do not carry any valuables during the ride.
- If you take a camera on the ride, do ensure safety while taking pictures on the boat.
With many such amazing things to do in Goa, a dolphin sighting safari is pretty memorable and one should most definitely try it once during their visit in Goa. If you’re looking to plan a trip to Goa and indulge in some of these memorable activities, we can help you chalk out the entire plan.