Marine Mammal

Bottlenose Dolphin

Tursiops aduncus

Illustration: gardenroutefishing.co.za

The Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin is the classic inshore dolphin, seen close to the surf line in stable groups. Robust and grey, curious and often riding boat and bow waves. A regular on marine eco cruises.

Field guide

📍 Distribution

Coastal waters from the Cape to KwaZulu-Natal

🌊 Habitat

Shallow inshore waters near the coastline

🛡️ Conservation

Near threatened inshore

How to catch Bottlenose Dolphin

When to catch Bottlenose Dolphin

📅 Best months

Year-round, close inshore

📏 Limits & restrictions

Protected — viewing only, no take.

Full regulations info →

Tours targeting Bottlenose Dolphin

Dolphin Discovery Cruise

Ocean Safaris · Plettenberg Bay

R 0.00 Season 1 December – 31 May · pricing on enquiry

Whale Watching Cruise

Ocean Safaris · Plettenberg Bay

R 0.00 Season 1 June – 30 November · pricing on enquiry

Whale Watching Cruise

Ocean Blue Adventures · Plettenberg Bay

R 1 250.00 Adults R1250 · Children R700 · Season June–November

Marine Eco Tour

Ocean Blue Adventures · Plettenberg Bay

R 800.00 Adults R800 · Children R450 · Season December–May