INTERNATIONAL DOLPHIN WATCH

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR INTERACTIONS WITH WILD DOLPHINS

An encounter with a wild dolphin or a pod of dolphins is an experience relished by sailors and land lubbers alike. Many people are now swimming with dolphins. If you behave sensibly you can safely have the absolutely wonderful experience of meeting wild animals that have been called ‘man’s cousins in the sea’ because of their brain size and intelligent behaviour. Here are some common sense guidelines to ensure that your meeting is enjoyed with the minimum of risk for all concerned. 

SWIMMERS:

1. Let the pod approach you. Center yourself, and get calm. If you are overly excited, focus on your breathing as you swim out. Stop and wait for the pod to come to you, then you'll really know they want your company. Dolphins must initiate any interaction and they have the right to terminate it.
2. Watch your arm movements. Swim gently, do not chase or pursue the dolphins. You run the risk of disturbing important activities such as feeding, courtship and nursing. It is acceptable to swim alongside them, but always respect their personal space
3. Keep your arms at your side and swim in as fluid and graceful a style as you can, splash as little as possible.
4. Be aware of the pods' behaviour. Dolphins have their moods just like we do. Sometimes they are sociable, sometimes they are not. Respect their space and feelings.
5. Take your cues from their behaviour. Dolphins communicate with body language, distance, and depth. Use your heart and think smart. Honour your own limits and theirs and your experience will be optimised.
6. If they want to touch you they will. No one appreciates being grabbed at and dolphins are no exception. If you want to experience being touched by a dolphin, let go of your expectations and open your heart. If you are swimming and a dolphin approaches you, do not reach out and try to touch him/her. These dolphins are totally free and wild, have a very acute sense of touch, and rarely tolerate physical contact from humans. Trying to touch or grab a dolphin is illegal and is virtually guaranteed to scare them away. They recognise and remember you and will avoid you in future. NEVER touch a dolphin's blowhole.
7. Honour intimacy. If you see someone swimming alone in an intimate "conversation" with dolphins, don't interrupt. It's as rude in water as it is on land. Dolphins' interest in people is frequently based on curiosity. Diving, twisting and spiralling may succeed in attracting a dolphin's attention. Be playful and active in a non-aggressive way. If the dolphins are low key (prolonged dives, relaxed and quiet state, etc.) it is best to simply share space.
8. Be vigilant near boats - a whirling propeller can be lethal.
9. Make sure you can be seen by boat users.
10. If a dolphin becomes boisterous and you feel frightened try not to panic, stay still and it will usually calm down.
11. Dolphins are rambunctious and often have physical contact with one another, and sexual behaviour is normal at all ages.
12. If a dolphin biffs or nips you, keep your arms by your side and swim quietly away. A dolphin gives many clear warning signs such as shaking the head or snapping the jaws before resorting to aggression. Be aware and respect them.

DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES - CHERISHED MEMORIES

Since ancient times, some dolphins have chosen to associate with humans. Why they do this remains a mystery. Can we learn anything from watching dolphins in their natural environment as they show us their joyful, uninhibited behaviour? Of course we can! But everybody approaches from a different viewpoint and therefore has a different experience. Whatever your experience it will almost certainly remain a cherished memory.

Read what our clients' said about their Wild and Free dolphin swimming holidays