Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) | Whale & Dolphin Watching

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Marine Mammals Research Association is a non-governmental organization, founded for filling the knowledge gabs on marine mammals and for defining effective conservation measures through science and education in Turkey. There is three species of dolphins that you can encounter during the surveys, which are; common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin and stripped dolphins, all identified as under the risk according to the IUCN.

We organize tours in the Bay, they take around 4 to 5 hours and depart from Antalya city center ancient port. There are two main routes taken, one takes us by the coastline towards the cliffs in Lara, where you can appreciate the magnificent walls, the turquoise pools along the way and the astounding Düden waterfall. Dolphin families gather in these waters mainly to feed so it is normal to watch many jumps and a lot of activity in the water. The second route takes us to the Konyaaltı beach, and ends at Siçan Island. You will get a broad view of the bay, with spectacular views from the mountain range surrounding Antalya. Many families of dolphins come here for many reasons, often seen playing or just resting. In both trips you will be able to enjoy unique views of the Bay and the city, enjoy close encounters with these magnificent and curious animals, and a beautiful day out at sea.

During each tour, the researchers will be your guides and gives a general information on marine ecosystem, the importance of dolphins on the ecosystem, their statues, the threats they are facing with and how each of us play a key role on the protection of not only these species but the entire eco-system. Moreover, during the sightings, guides will talk about the species that are sighted, their observed behavior and how scientific data will be collected which will give you a chance of being a day scientist. Photo-identification will also be carried out during the tours so you will have a chance of naming a dolphin as well. You can also take part in our research by contributing your dolphin pictures.

Our dolphin watch boat is for 15 people daily. Departure and landing of the boat will be done from the Kaleiçi Port. Tour participation fee (70Euro per person) will transfer to the Marine Mammals Research Association. Dolphin observation may not be possible for each tour as the observations are carried out on the wild population but the chance of spotting dolphins is really high throughout the year.

We will be delighted to see you on board to explore the bay of Antalya through the eyes of dolphins.

DMAD supports the responsible wildlife experiences and we are against any form of cetacean captivity.

Please also check our website for details of our activities: www.dmad.org.tr

For participating or any further questions, please get in contact with;

Aylin Akkaya Bas

info@dmad.org.tr

+905337339443

+905325594267

Months

January • February • March • April • May • June • July • August • September • October • November • December

Duration

Half-day (3-6 hours)

Vessel types

Small boat (0-50 passengers)

Times and prices

Tour participation fee is 70 Euro

About our skippers and naturalist guides

Facilities

Naturalist guide(s) as well as skipper • Onboard research • Posters / displays / maps • Public participation in research • Reading material available • Restrooms / toilets on board • Scenic backdrop to encounters • Snacks / drinks • Support conservation • Swim / snorkel included