Charter a Boat to Watch Dolphins Swim in Ocean City
Experience the thrill of dolphin sightseeing tours in Ocean City by chartering a boat and embarking on a remarkable adventure. Imagine yourself cruising along the sparkling waters, surrounded by the beauty of the coastal landscape, as you eagerly anticipate witnessing the captivating marine life in its natural habitat.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a thrilling and educational experience, find the answer to the question “dolphin tours near me” by embarking on a memorable dolphin watch adventure. Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort is Ocean City’s premier hotel and resort. Read on as we discuss why no visit to Ocean City should go without dolphin cruises.
What is the Best Time of Year for Dolphin & Whale Watching Tours?
In Ocean City, the best time of year for dolphin watch tours generally aligns with the summer and autumn. During this period, the coastal waters become a playground for these marine mammals, offering visitors a prime opportunity to witness their incredible behaviors in their natural habitat.
Ocean City experiences warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours during summer. These favorable conditions attract a variety of dolphin species, such as Bottlenose Dolphins, commonly found in the area. These intelligent creatures are known for their playful nature, often swimming alongside boats and showcasing their acrobatic skills.
As summer transitions into autumn, typically from September to November, whale watching becomes an exciting possibility in Ocean City. Various species of whales, including humpback whales and fin whales, pass through the coastal waters during their migratory journeys. This time of year presents a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures going to warmer waters for breeding and calving.
The 9 Types of Dolphins to Watch in Maryland
You’ll likely encounter various fascinating types of dolphins in Maryland’s coastal waters. These incredible marine mammals showcase a range of characteristics and behaviors, making each encounter a unique and memorable experience. Here are the nine types of dolphins to watch in Maryland.
- Atlantic Spotted Dolphin: With their distinctive spotted patterns, Atlantic Spotted Dolphins (Stenella frontalis) are a delight to observe. They are very friendly and playful and often like interacting with people and other marine animals.
- Spinner Dolphins: Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) are easy to observe and a joy to see when viewed ethically. They are very showy energetic swimmers, frequently seen leaping and riding waves accompanied by intricate spinning maneuvers as they gracefully return to the water.
- Striped Dolphins: Striped Dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) are known for their striking blue and white coloration and the distinct dark stripes along their bodies. They are fast and agile swimmers and often leap very high in the air. Striped Dolphins usually form large, energetic groups of up to 100 individuals.
- Clymene Dolphins: Clymene Dolphins (Stenella clymene) are very elusive. Little is known about this species because they usually prefer a water depth of more than 16,500 feet (5,000 meters). They are characterized by a dark gray coloring and a small white patch on their belly.
- Long-Beaked Common Dolphins: Long-Beaked Common Dolphins (Delphinus capensis) are characterized by their distinctive hourglass-shaped pattern on their sides. This species can live up to 40 years and is usually pregnant for 11 months. They can be found leaping and breaching into the waves created by boats.
- Short-Beaked Common Dolphins: Short-Beaked Common Dolphins (Delphinus delphis) are highly social animals, often traveling in large groups or pods of hundreds or thousands of individuals. These dolphins are known for their energetic behavior, including bow riding, leaping, and surfing on waves created by boats. They are agile swimmers and can reach impressive speeds.
- Common Bottlenose Dolphin: Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops trucantus) are known for their boisterous and playful natures, which makes them easy to spot. They are also very social and usually approach boats and beaches.
- Rough-toothed Dolphin: Unlike other species of dolphins, the Rough-toothed Dolphin (Steno bredanensis) is less agile, playful, and showy. They prefer to use their energy for speed but are social, often interacting with other marine mammals.
- Harbor Porpoise: Most people mistake Harbor Porpoises (Phoecena phoecena) for baby dolphins, but they are different animals. For instance, this species doesn’t use sound to communicate like dolphins, and they have spade-shaped teeth instead of the dolphins’ conical pointed teeth. Harbor Porpoises aren’t as showy as dolphins and are much shyer, which makes them the targets of bullying by dolphins.
Where to Stay When You Want to See Dolphins in Maryland
For an unforgettable dolphin-watching experience in Maryland, consider staying at Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort. Nestled in a prime location near the water, our resort offers stunning views and easy access to dolphin habitats. Immerse yourself in comfort and luxury at our well-appointed suites, providing stunning ocean views.
Book Your Stay for A Dolphin Adventure in Ocean City
Ocean City is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to witness the grace and wonder of dolphins. Whether you choose to embark on a dolphin-watching tour or relax on the shores while keeping an eye out for these magnificent creatures, Ocean City promises an unforgettable dolphin adventure.
Take advantage of this incredible experience. Contact us to book a room at Princess Royale today and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Maryland’s coastal waters.
Image credits: Paulphin Photography /ShutterstockÂ