RESPECTFUL WHALE WATCHING FROM BAYONNE (BASQUE COUNTRY)

The Shelltone Whale Project is an environmental organization that carefully selects whale-watching operators committed to a respectful approach.

Marine biologists and experienced naturalists who put animal welfare first.

Book directly with operators selected by the Shelltone Whale Project, at the best available rate and with no additional fees.

The Shelltone Team’s Review

From Bayonne, these excursions offer the opportunity to explore one of the most remarkable geological features along Europe’s Atlantic coast: the Capbreton Canyon. This underwater canyon, which reaches depths of more than 3,500 meters close to the shoreline, creates conditions that support a rich and diverse marine ecosystem.

Common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, and many other species regularly frequent this region, where coastal waters meet the depths of the open ocean. Each trip offers the possibility of discovering an environment in constant motion, where every encounter remains unpredictable.

We chose to feature this base for the unique access it provides to this exceptional ecosystem in the Bay of Biscay. The Capbreton Canyon is one of the few places in Europe where the deep ocean comes so close to the coast, creating a unique relationship between the shoreline and the open sea.

Beyond cetacean observation, these excursions offer an opportunity to better understand the influence of underwater landscapes on marine life and the way they shape the presence of the species encountered at the surface.

What it means to be “Shelltone selected”

Every operator featured here has been selected because it complies with the Shelltone Charter.

⁠Cetaceans are never approached at more than 5 knots.
Animals are always approached from an angle that follows their direction of travel, never by cutting across them.
Mothers with calves are never approached.

These principles form the foundation of the Shelltone Charter. Our selection also considers the overall attitude of the operator, the quality of the guidance provided, and the ability to recognize when choosing not to approach is the most respectful decision.

These are not recommendations. They are the conditions under which every Shelltone Selected Operator is chosen.

What We Particularly Appreciate Here

The remarkable proximity between the Basque coastline and the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. A destination that reminds us that some of the ocean’s greatest mysteries can begin just a few miles from shore.

WHALE WATCHING IN BAYONNE

SCHEDULE, PRICES & BOOKING

Photos gallery

300179349_127536953344350_7902472588050494141_n

448547223_2251519495184336_1194483225047206838_n

baiona-marine-excursion-cote-basque-heaer-inner-bateau

395420178_17937103931752384_480893921284196581_n

448303454_2251519561850996_1742657502497005771_n

305396578_123013390495881_5139889520229607631_n

395450826_17937103907752384_4205720042676357298_n

299970224_5277885428974122_7821221644715418485_n

Follow our observations

Frequently asked questions

What time of year do we see cetaceans in Bayonne?

From April to November, we head out to sea along the Basco-landaise coast, one of the most beautiful places in the world for observing cetaceans, dolphins and whales, of which there are around twenty species. The Gouf de Capbreton, where we’re sailing, is an underwater canyon offering all the nutrients necessary for the development of marine fauna. That’s why there are so many cetaceans, and in particular dolphins.
When should I book?
What's the maximum number of passengers on the boat?
From what age do we accept children?

Our sailing experience, our knowledge of the environment in which we sail, the type of boat we use, among other things, have led us to decide not to embark children under the age of 3, for the good of the child, the parents and the other passengers. Thank you for your understanding.
Where does boarding take place?
How long does the outing last?
What happens if the outing is cancelled due to bad weather?

There’s no need to contact us to ask if the outing will be held due to bad weather. If we have to cancel, rest assured, you’ll be the first to know. Should we have to cancel the outing due to bad weather, either the outing will be postponed to a date of your choice, or you will be refunded the full amount of your payment, at your convenience.
Can I cancel my outing?

Yes, I can cancel my outing at any time by notifying us by e-mail. A cancellation fee of 2% of the total amount will be deducted from the refunded amount.
However, such cancellations are no longer possible from 72 h before the departure time of the expedition, except on presentation of a medical certificate issued by a doctor for the person cancelling the reservation, or in the event of force majeure, accident or other. Traffic jams are not a cause of force majeure.
What should we bring and what should we wear on the trip?
What to do if you're sensitive to seasickness?

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