A magical encounter in Puerto Madryn to appreciate maritime wildlife in its natural habitat at the quietest time of the day.
Puerto Madryn, in the province of Chubut, is mostly known as a whale watching site from May to December, and also for the penguin rookery in Punta Tombo, active from September to March. But in the summer, when the whale season is over, these Atlantic waters are visited by Dusky dolphins.
Among other areas, off South America this species range from Southern Peru to Cape Horn; commonly found from Mar del Plata to Peninsula Valdés. They can be easily spotted from the shore, jumping and surfing waves.
We discovered a funnier way to connect with these rare dark dolphins and with other maritime animals. Departing from the Piedra Buena pier at sunrise, when the tide is calm and the day begins, the chances to spot them are higher and so is to get closer to them.
Early in the morning, you will go on board a Zodiac boat and get deep into the waters of the Golfo Nuevo. Joined by the bilingual guides specialized in maritime fauna, through the navigation you will learn about this ecosystem and these dolphins’ biological cycle, reproduction, socialization and feeding habits.
Keep an eye on the water! Any subtle movement suddenly may become into wildlife in action right in front of you. You will share a moment in these magnificent animals´ lives, appreciating them in the freedom of their natural habitat.
As in any nature watching experience, you should expect surprises. Many birds -as the South American tern and the Magellanic cormorant- and also sea lions chose these Patagonian shores to rest on the cliffs and boulder beaches, so you may get to see and learn about them too when you pass by Punta Loma, where they settled their colony. If you are lucky, you may also meet other cetaceans curious enough to come close.
You will definitely enjoy this relaxing navigation, feeling the sea breeze and your heart pumping fast knowing that in any possible moment wildlife may show up as close to you as it can be.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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Includes navigation on Zodiac boat, bilingual specialized guide, a snack, photography service (pictures not included). Transfers to and from the pier not included.
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Operates daily from December to April. From two to three departures from Piedra Buena pier: 6:30 am (sunrise) – 9:30 am – 1:00 pm.
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2-2:30 hs Regular navigation shared with other guests. Departure is guaranteed (weather permitting) with a minimum of 10 pax. For this matter, we recommend this activity for groups, or check availability for FITS on specific required dates.
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The navigation main objective is to encounter dusky dolphins but also visiting the sea lion colony in Punta Loma, Folias shipwreck in Paraná beach, Punta Este and piers; depending on time and weather conditions.
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Activity subject to weather conditions. The navigation route and itinerary may change or the activity may be cancelled without previous notice. Dusky dolphins watching can not be assured given to the species characteristics and unspecified location.
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Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, cap or hat, a coat, drinking water.
