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Watching and protecting whales 

Dolphin and whale watching from Cadaqués (Costa Brava)

TAKE A RESPONSIBLE APPROACH TO MEETING CETACEANS

Photograph by Pierre Lavagne de Castellan, head of the Shelltone Whale Project

A word from Pierre

Our base in Cadaqués is a special place, a harsh, uncompromising environment. We're sailing over a canyon more than 2,000 metres deep, facing the impressive Cap de Creus, and the scenery is breathtaking. This canyon is an extremely rich eco-system. We are the first and only scientists to have observed cetaceans in this area on a regular basis over the last 5 years. Encounters with cetaceans are well worth the effort. The animals that live here, in the open sea of the canyon, are unaccustomed to being observed, which makes our encounters exciting and authentic. Our outings in Cadaqués are recommended for people who like the sea alive, who can be sporty and who above all want authentic sensations. It is more difficult than at our other bases to find cetaceans there, but each encounter is unique and powerful with wild and free animals.

The Shelltone Whale Project's cetacean-watching charter is fully respected.

Pierre-Lavagne-de-Castellan-black-high-res

Dolphin and whale watching trip to Cadaqués (Costa Brava)

A more intimate, gentler approach, with greater awareness of the environment.e on a large Zodiac, see photo gallery below.

From Cadaqués, Costa BravaOn the Lacaze-Duthiers canyon in French territorial waters, we encounter cetaceans, dolphins, but also, more rarely, fin whales, sperm whales, pilot whales, Risso's dolphins, common bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, beaked whales and minke whales, among others...

As soon as you board, we'll give you information about the sea and the animals to maximise your experience. As we enter cetacean territory, we'll be sailing in silence, which allows us to be fully connected to nature. Cetaceans, which are sensitive to our individual and collective energies, approach a silent boat more easily.

On the way back, once we've left the cetaceans' territory, we'll be able to share our emotions and observations. Your guide will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Contribution to sea trip costs: 85€/person

Description of the activity 

From May to November, daily departure at 8.30 am (3-hour outing)
Age: no minimum age
Capacity: 10 people maximum
Species to watch: dolphins, whales, etc!

Additional information: 

  • Our unique approach allows you to experience these special moments in small groups
  • Departure from Cadaqués

Photo gallery

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

Unlike our other bases, where the sea is calmer and cetacean sightings more frequent, Cadaqués is a special place. Here we sail the canyon of Cap de Creus in a large zodiac, designed primarily for scientific research rather than leisurely tourism. Visit conditions can be sportingand the frequent spray. It's a great experience for those who love the sea, but not recommended for those who are not used to sea outings.

What's more, Cadaqués is not a popular tourist destination for whale watching. We cannot guarantee the presence of cetaceans. If you find the idea of not seeing any frustrating, it would be best not to come with us. Thank you for your understanding.

Book your sea outing in Cadaqués (Costa Brava)

1 – Click on the date of your choiceThe person to whom you are giving the gift voucher chooses the dates online.
2 - Confirm the number of adults and children.
3 - Payment is made online by credit card.
4 - You will immediately receive your boarding ticket by e-mail.

Any questions? Read our FAQ below. Thank you and see you soon!

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Wear the colours of the Shelltone Whale Project base in Cadaqués

and support our actions 🙂

100 % of the profits from the sale of our clothing is donated to the Shelltone Whale Project, enabling us to continue protecting cetaceans by selecting animal-friendly whale-watching operators around the world.

Frequently asked questions

Haven't found the answer to your question? Don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail on this page CONTACT.

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Whale songs - 43 min.

Recorded 10 miles off Baille Argent on 26 April 2016. We are convinced that there is a message in this song. Good listening!

Read more...