14.10.2026 – Speed limits

Our morning trip brought us two fascinating species: striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) and Blainville’s beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris).

Striped dolphins are energetic, agile swimmers, often seen leaping out of the water and speeding through the waves. They typically travel at around 11 km/h but can reach impressive burst speeds of approximately 50 km/h.

Blainville’s beaked whales, on the other hand, are much more elusive. These deep-diving whales usually surface quietly between long dives, making every sighting special. When at the surface, they often swim at a steady, relatively slow pace.

In the afternoon, we encountered Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).

Atlantic spotted dolphins are playful and athletic, often leaping out of the water, riding waves and moving rapidly through the sea. Although their maximum swimming speed is not firmly established, some estimates for spotted dolphins suggest speeds of around 30 km/h.

Bottlenose dolphins are equally impressive, capable of powerful accelerations and speeds of around 30–35 km/h during short bursts. However, they generally travel at more moderate speeds when swimming steadily at the surface.

Watching these dolphins move effortlessly between relaxed swimming and sudden bursts of speed is a wonderful reminder of their incredible adaptations to life at sea.

Four remarkable species and two memorable trips! Every encounter offers a unique glimpse into the fascinating world of cetaceans.