Dolphin Watch

Many people have seen dolphins in aquariums, but even the best aquarium experience cannot compare to seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural environment.

The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, located in Virginia Beach, offers a dolphin watch excursion during which participants have the chance to view dolphins as they frolic in the ocean.

The excursion consists of a 90-minute boat ride that departs from the Virginia Beach Fishing Center at Rudee Inlet.

You’ll enjoy a lovely ride out to where dolphins are known to frequent. While sightings are not guaranteed, most of the trips do produce an impressive dolphin encounter.

Often the dolphins will swim right up alongside of the boat for several minutes, jumping from the water and seeming to enjoy putting on a show for their audience.

Photography and videography is allowed, and some lucky passengers capture fabulous shots. If you don’t, you can purchase some pictures from past excursions below deck.

Drinks and light refreshments can also be purchased while on board.

During the dolphin watch excursion you are free to move about the boat. You can sit on the top deck, in the small dining area or on the main deck.

The main deck is the best place to be during dolphin encounters because you will be closest to them. The view of dolphins from the main deck is still quite good.

During the entire journey a guide will be addressing the passengers over the intercom. In addition to pointing out dolphin sightings he will also give some local history and point out any other wildlife that may be seen.

This is a fun and memorable activity for the entire family.

Want to Go?

When: Dolphin watch excursions are offered seasonally from April through October. Exact dates for the dolphin watch excursions are subject to change, so you will want to check with the Aquarium prior to your visit.

Note that if you visit Virginia Beach during the winter months, the Aquarium offers a Winter Wildlife Boat Trip. During this winter trip some lucky visitors have seen whales.

Tickets: You can buy tickets at the dock or you can purchase discounted tickets with your admission to the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. The address for the Aquarium is 717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451. The address for the dock is 200 Winston Salem Avenue Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451.
Cost: Tickets are $21 for ages 12 and up and $15 for ages 4 to 11.
Call 757-385-FISH (3474) for more information.