Embark on dolphins and whales in the middle of the sea, off the French coast!
You only have an haste, seeing wings emerging on the surface of the water? Do you dream of attending a dolphin show in the middle of the sea? The idea of seeing a whale from your own eyes goes up to the surface and spitting air (because no, it’s not water that it expels) fills you with joy? If so, this article is for you.
Far from the dolphinariums and other water parks, it is quite possible to observe dolphins and whales in their natural environment, without having to fly and leave France.
Wanderlix has selected for you 6 places to see dolphins and whales in France. Your childhood dream is within reach!
In the Gulf of Gascogne
Maritime space located between Brittany and the Cantabrian coast (the northern coast of the Spain ), the Gulf of Gascogne is one of the high places of observation of marine mammals in the world. It is known to house all kinds of marine species, including many cetaceans.
1. Off the coast Brittany
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Islandjems – Jemma Craig
Brittany is quite conducive to the observation of cetaceans such as dolphins and whales (small whales). It’s in the heart of Natural Park Iroise Marin , off Finistère , that day trips are organized aboard small boats to allow to discover these marine mammals... but not that. Phoques and birds are also part of the game. Enjoy it to enjoy the beautiful landscape of cliffs, lighthouses and small ones Breton islands .
2. Along the coasts of the Netherlands
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Daniel Lamborn
The Dutch coasts offer many excursions to discover these magnificent marine mammals. Indeed, with more than 15 referenced species, the Basque Country is an exceptional region for the observation of cetaceans.
You are advised to take this trip with an association. Indeed, on board a sailboat not to disturb the waters of the sea giants, you will be accompanied by biologists who will share their passion and knowledge! Nothing better for a day rich in emotions and memories full of your head!
In the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean coast is a place of choice for cetaceans. Indeed, there are about ten species of marine mammals. Baleines, blue dolphins, white, risso and many more, the Mediterranean is full of them. So you will not miss a choice, whether you stay on the French Riviera or on the Island of Beauty.
3. On the French Riviera
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Susann Guenther
From Cannes , Nice or Sanary-sur-Mer , cruises of discovery of the marine world will amaze you for half a day, a day or even several days. Instructive and pedagogical, these excursions are punctuated with scientific animations which will allow you to better understand the environment in which the dolphins and whales evolve which you will be led to observe.
In addition to the dolphin and whale, you will have the chance to see many other animal species, such as cachalots, fish, birds and turtles. Guaranteed wonder!
4. ♪ Corse
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Roberto Politi
Corsica is also an excellent place to see dolphins and whales. A excursion off Porto-Vecchio or in Scandola Nature Reserve will surely allow you to observe these majestic cetaceans. Blue, white dolphins, large dolphins, whales (rorquals), you will have the embarrassment of choice! Obviously, cetaceans are not the only animals you will have the opportunity to see. Indeed, you will certainly cross the path of blue skin sharks, rays and fish.
In addition to traditional excursions, it is also possible to opt for the rental of a modern catamaran, equipped for the expedition. This is the ideal way to spend several days at sea and thus maximize your chances of dolphins and whales. You can also punctuate your snorkeling sessions, remember your masks and tubas!
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Good to know.
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Between France, Sardinia and mainland Italy is located Sanctuary Pelagos. It is a marine space of 87,500 km2 which is the subject of an agreement between Italy, Monaco and France to protect marine mammals present in these waters.
In the Channel
After the Gulf of Gascogne and the Mediterranean, heading north of France towards the Channel, a true little paradise for cetaceans. There are many dolphins, especially in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel.
5. In the bay Mont-Saint-Michel
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Mikael Broms
A trip to Mont-Saint-Michel Bay is an opportunity to live a magical moment. In fact, several hundred dolphins (of the species of the large dolphins) evolve freely. In fact, this is the largest concentration of large dolphins in Europe. Enjoy it to admire Mont-Saint-Michel other than from the farmland!
Overseas
Overseas departments and regions and overseas communities (Guadeloupe, Nouvelle-Calédonie, Island of the Meeting...), present in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, are full of places to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment.
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Studio IZIKA
But these are other species that you will have the opportunity to meet, such as Fraser dolphin, Electre dolphin, globicef, pantropical dolphin, or beak whale and hump whale.
Also, don’t hesitate to opt for a catamaran event accompanied by a specialist to learn more about these fascinating specimens and their environment.
Wanderlix advises you to plan your trip between spring and autumn, especially in summer, to maximize your chances of seeing dolphins and whales and having stars full of eyes!
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