Dolphin encounters in the Mediterranean: swim with marine life

Experience dolphin encounters in the Mediterranean from Cannes. Swim with dolphins, turtles, and marine life in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Book now.

Dolphin encounters in the Mediterranean: swim with marine life

Dolphin encounters in the Mediterranean offer a rare chance to observe marine mammals in their natural habitat. Operating from Cannes, these organized outings allow participants to swim with dolphins and other marine species in the Pelagos Sanctuary, a protected maritime area. The activity is available between May and mid-October, when marine life is most active.

Departure from Cannes to the Pelagos Sanctuary

Participants meet at the Mandelieu La Napoule harbor near Cannes at 8:00 AM. Groups are limited to 12 people to maintain a respectful interaction with wildlife. Two options are available: a half-day tour until 1:00 PM, or a full-day tour until 4:30 PM. The full-day option includes lunch on board.

The activity is supervised by professionals licensed by the French Merchant Navy. Safety standards comply with French maritime regulations. High-speed boats, known as “Go Fast” vessels, are used for half-day trips to maximize observation opportunities.

Understanding the Pelagos Sanctuary

The Pelagos Sanctuary covers 87,500 square kilometers (33,800 square miles) and stretches between the French Riviera, Monaco, the northern coast of Sardinia, and Italy. This area holds the highest density of marine mammals in the Western Mediterranean. During summer, more than 25,000 dolphins inhabit these waters, along with fin whales, sperm whales, sunfish, and sea turtles.

Conditions in the Pelagos Sanctuary make it particularly suitable for marine observation: warm water temperatures between 20°C and 26°C (68°F and 79°F), high biological productivity, and minimal industrial disruption.

Dolphin observation and swimming with marine animals

After boarding, the boat navigates toward identified dolphin zones. An ultralight aircraft (ULM) supports the search, communicating with the boat by radio. This method significantly increases the chances of locating dolphin pods and sometimes whales.

Participants observe dolphins from the boat first. Dolphins are wild and protected; touching them is not permitted. They typically swim within 2 to 10 meters (6.5 to 33 feet) from the boat. Approaching distances depend on the animals’ behavior and willingness.

Swimming sessions target other marine animals such as turtles, mobula rays, and sunfish. Masks, snorkels, and wetsuits (full-body or shorty, depending on water temperature) are provided if participants do not bring their own. Swimming with wild marine animals requires patience, as encounters depend entirely on the animals’ behavior.

In-water time depends on the animals’ interest. Sometimes, encounters last several minutes; in other cases, they end quickly if the animals swim away. Wildlife behavior cannot be forced, and participants are briefed to remain calm and respectful.

Participant requirements and conditions

Participants must be able to swim normally and be in good health. Pregnant women are not permitted for safety reasons.

Children from 6 years old can join to observe dolphins but cannot enter the water. From 8 years old, children may swim, provided they are confident swimmers, comfortable underwater with a mask, and accompanied by an adult. Parental authorization is required for minors aged 12 to 17 if unaccompanied.

Pets are not allowed on board. Weather conditions can affect the outing. In the event of unfavorable weather, the trip is postponed. If no marine mammals are observed, which is very rare (less than 2% of outings), participants are offered a second trip free of charge, valid for two years.

What to bring and expect

Participants should bring:

• Swimwear
• A towel
• Sunscreen (preferably eco-friendly)
• Sunglasses
• A windbreaker or light jacket

All snorkeling equipment is available on board. Wearing a wetsuit is mandatory for in-water activities. Water and soft drinks are provided during the trip.

For full-day outings, a picnic-style lunch is included, consisting typically of sandwiches, salads, fruit, and beverages.

Expect surface conditions to vary. Waves of 0.5 to 1.5 meters (1.6 to 5 feet) are common. Participants prone to seasickness should consider taking preventative medication at least one hour before departure.

Pricing and booking

The prices for dolphin encounters are:

• Half-day trip (8:00 AM to 1:00 PM): approximately €210 per person
• Full-day trip (8:00 AM to 4:30 PM): approximately €280 per person

Prices include the boat outing, supervision by marine professionals, use of snorkeling gear, refreshments, and lunch for full-day participants.

Booking in advance is necessary, particularly during peak season (July and August).

Best period for dolphin encounters

The best months are June to September. During this time, sea temperatures are optimal, visibility underwater is excellent, and the probability of encountering dolphins and whales is highest.

Fin whales, which can reach up to 24 meters (78 feet) in length, are often seen between June and mid-September. Sperm whales are less frequent but possible, especially in deeper offshore waters.

Environmental guidelines and respect for marine life

The organizers follow strict ethical guidelines:

• No feeding or touching of animals
• No aggressive approach
• Limited time around animal groups to reduce stress

The boats maintain a slow speed near the animals and avoid separating pods. Swimmers are instructed not to chase or block the movement of marine animals.

These practices are designed to preserve the natural behavior of the animals and ensure their protection for future generations.

XperienceFrance is your travel specialist in France.