Explore Cardigan Bay Wildlife: 1.5-Hour Coastal Seafari from New Quay
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Overview
Join a 1.5-hour boat trip from New Quay to witness bottlenose dolphins, seals, and porpoises in Cardigan Bay. Limited to 12 passengers for an intimate wildlife encounter enhanced by onboard expert commentary and underwater listening.
Coastal Seafari - 1.5hr Trip
1.5 Hours • All Ages • Max. 12 Passengers
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 90-minute boat trip from New Quay to explore the stunning Cardigan Bay. Encounter bottlenose dolphins, seals, and porpoises while learning from an on-board researcher. With only 12 passengers allowed, enjoy ample space for photography and listen to the dolphins through our underwater microphone.
Join us on a boat trip from New Quay as we survey the bottlenose dolphins of Cardigan Bay!
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes
About
- Enjoy the seals, birds, dolphins and porpoises that visit this beautiful coastline of west Wales.
- Learn from our on-board researcher.
- Limited to only 12 passengers, there is plenty of room aboard our boats to move around and take photos.
- We also have an underwater microphone (hydrophone) to listen to the dolphins.
The Boat
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips owns and runs two vessels. Your trip will take place on one of our vessels.
- Anna Lloyd is a state of the art catamaran, famous for their increased stability.
- Sulaire is a single hull modern charter boat and has been used as a platform for dolphin research and dolphin watching in Cardigan Bay since the 1990's.
- Both vessels are fully licensed and MCA registered to carry passengers and are equipped with all necessary safety equipment, a part-sheltered deck and toilet.
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Health and Safety
We understand that some people may have mobility issues, special requirements or have questions regarding the boat trips, please call us on 01545 560 032 and we will do our utmost to help. We want to ensure everyone is completely at ease while on the trip. Before departure a safety briefing will be given to all passengers onboard.
Please note: Dinghy transfers to/from the boat may be put in place depending on the tide. You will be asked to wear a lifejacket during the transfer.
Adventure Tips
Bring a Camera with Zoom
The wildlife often stays a respectful distance offshore; a good zoom lens ensures you capture close-up shots without disturbing animals.
Dress in Layers
Coastal weather can change rapidly; wear layered clothing to stay comfortable in cool sea breezes or warm sun.
Use Non-slip Footwear
The boat decks can be slippery when wet; sturdy, non-slip shoes are recommended for safety.
Stay Seated During Dinghy Transfers
If dinghy transfers are needed due to tides, always wear your lifejacket and remain seated to ensure a safe embarkation and disembarkation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphin
- Grey seal
History
Cardigan Bay has been a protected marine area since the 1990s, with local efforts focused on dolphin conservation.
Conservation
The boat trips support marine research and promote responsible wildlife observation to minimize disturbance to animals.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Quay
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against chilly sea breezes common during spring trips.
spring specific
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for better wildlife viewing and photography.
summer specific
Waterproof Backpack
Keeps your belongings dry during light rains or spray.
fall specific
Binoculars
Helps spot distant dolphins and seals despite low visibility conditions.
winter specific