Dolphin Watching Cruise

Golfo Nuevo is a sheltered bay with warm, plankton-rich water, and it is home to several kinds of marine mammals. This boat trip, rated 5.0 by a dozen travellers, heads out from Puerto Madryn in search of dolphins, in particular the small, black-and-white Commerson's dolphin, known locally as the tonina, as well as dusky dolphins in some conditions. The skipper follows the coast and the offshore waters, watching for dorsal fins and birds that signal a school of fish. Dolphins are wild and unpredictable, so there is no guarantee, but they are frequently seen riding the bow wave or swimming beside the boat. Along the way you may also spot sea lions, cormorants, terns and gulls, and in whale season, southern right whales in the distance. The boat is small, so the group is limited in number and everyone has a good view. A guide or the skipper explains what you are seeing, and children usually enjoy the chance to look for fins and shout when one appears. The outing is calm, scenic and relaxing, a good choice for travellers who want time on the water without the effort of snorkelling or paddling. It lasts a couple of hours and can be combined with other activities in the same day.

Conditions on the gulf can change. In the morning the surface is often glassy, while afternoon winds can build chop that makes spotting difficult and the ride bumpy. The skipper decides whether to sail based on the forecast, and sailings can be cancelled in strong wind. If you are prone to motion sickness, take a tablet in advance and sit toward the middle of the boat.

The Commerson's dolphin is a charismatic species, small and stocky with a bold black-and-white pattern, and found only in a few places in the southern hemisphere. They are quick and playful, often seen in small groups. Dusky dolphins are bigger and acrobatic when present. Because the animals roam, a sighting on any given day is likely but not certain, and the best approach is to enjoy the sea and the birds and treat the dolphins as a reward.

Bring a windproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses with a strap, and sun cream, because the glare from the water is strong. A camera with fast shutter speed is useful, and binoculars help with distant fins. Life jackets are provided and should be worn as instructed. Keep your voice low, so as not to scare the animals, and follow the skipper's directions about where to stand.

It is a gentle, family-friendly activity that suits most ages, and a nice way to round off a stay that has included land-based wildlife days. Check the departure point and meeting time when you book, since boats may leave from a pier in or near the town, and arrive early to allow for boarding.

To improve your chances, stay alert at the bow, scan the water for ripples and listen to the skipper's cues. Dolphins often appear suddenly, and a moment of delay can mean a missed photograph. Younger travellers can be given a task, such as counting seabirds, to keep them engaged while waiting. Even without a sighting, the sea air and views of the coast make the trip worthwhile.