Winter Season
Whale Watching
Scientific expedition to hear and see humpback whales with a hydrophone.
View DetailsWild Dolphin Encounter
Ethical Observation & Swim with Marine Biologists
Scientific Expedition
Be part of a unique experience in Banderas Bay
All Year
Hydrophone Included
Swim & Snorkel
Sailing through the waters of Banderas Bay, you will observe intelligent and friendly dolphins in their natural environment. At Explora Vallarta, we invite you to discover their surroundings and the friendly behavior that characterizes them: from amazing jumps and agile swimming, to mating rituals and mothers with their charming calves.
Swimming with wild dolphins: An ethical connection
Our Marine Biologists will share deep knowledge with you about the biology, reproduction, communication, and feeding of these enigmatic animals.
Respect and Ethics Protocol
It is fundamental to highlight that our eco-tour is carried out with strict respect for the natural behavior of cetaceans. If calves are detected in the pod, we do not swim, as our priority is not to interfere in the rearing process.
When the group is composed of adults or juveniles, we carefully evaluate entering the water. We always wait for the dolphins to approach us out of curiosity; we do not chase them or interfere with their path, allowing them to set the pace of the interaction.
The Bay is inhabited by species such as the Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), the Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuata), the Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris) and even sightings of Orcas (Orcinus orca) are possible. During the winter season, this adventure is significantly enriched by the majestic sighting of the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae).
What will we observe?
Jumps & Agility
Demonstrations of strength and social communication.
Maternal Bonds
Calves learning to navigate with their mothers (we always observe them from a greater distance).
Your Ticket Funds Science
At Explora Vallarta, we don't just tour; we conserve. Part of your ticket allows us to support various marine conservation projects:
RABEN Network
Active support for the Whale Disentanglement Network and rescue from fishing gear.
Research
Participation in various research projects on Humpback Whales and other species in the Bay.
Education
Programs for local children and continuous training for other tour operators.
Wildlife Rescue
Assistance to stranded marine wildlife such as dolphins, whales, turtles, sea lions, and birds.
Book Your Spot
Adult Price
$112 USD
Child Price (4-11 yrs)
$90 USD
Reserve with 50%
Schedules:
- • Morning: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
- • Afternoon: 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
What's Included?
- Observation and swim with dolphins.
- Specialized Guides: Biologists and Naturalists.
- Hydrophone to hear their sounds.
- Visit to beach for swim and snorkel.
- Box Lunch and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Life jackets and insurance.
What to Bring?
- Sunglasses and hat/cap.
- Biodegradable sunscreen.
- Light windbreaker.
- Motion sickness medicine.
- Memory space for your photos.
Family & Scientific Company
Meet Your Expert Guides
At Explora Vallarta you are not just a tourist, you are our guest. We are a family of Biologists and Naturalists dedicated to protecting what we love most: the ocean.
Biol. Jorge Morales
Director & Marine Biologist
With years of experience in projects with cetaceans, Jorge will teach you how to interpret every behavior of dolphin pods, plus he will take beautiful photos of the dolphins for you.
Fabiola Flores
Naturalist Guide
Specialist in connecting people with nature. Her educational approach makes the experience unforgettable for children and adults. Fabiola loves seeing free dolphins, so she shares very valuable information.
Capt. José Ángel
Boat Captain
No one knows the Bay like him. His experience guarantees a safe, respectful approach with the best angles for photography.
Reviews on Wild Dolphin Swim
"A truly ethical experience. They don't chase the dolphins, they wait for them to approach. We learned a lot with biologist Jorge."
— Mariana G.
"Being able to hear them with the hydrophone while they swam under the boat was magical. The beach snorkeling was also great."
— David R.
Explora Moments
Wild Dolphin Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is swimming with dolphins allowed?
Yes, our Wild Dolphin Encounter expedition includes the possibility of swimming with them in their natural habitat. It is vital to mention that we do not force approaches; we always wait for the dolphins to approach us voluntarily. The activity is supervised by a biologist and strictly depends on the animals' behavior to prioritize their well-being.
What is the probability of seeing them?
The sighting probability is very high, exceeding 85% throughout the year. Banderas Bay is home to resident populations of Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) that inhabit the area permanently.
What happens if we don't see dolphins?
Although the probability is high, nature is unpredictable. In these cases, our expedition focuses on finding other fascinating marine fauna such as turtles, manta rays, and various seabirds. Additionally, we visit a beach or reef for snorkeling and, during the winter season, the experience is complemented by Humpback Whale watching.
Is it suitable for children and families?
Absolutely. It is an invaluable educational experience for children. They learn about marine biology and conservation directly from experts in a safe, fun, and deeply respectful environment.
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Post-Tour Relax