F-A-Q's
When is the best time to encounter dolphins?
Bottlenose dolphins are seen on most days, however we do suggest doing tours in low season. During the peaks (major global holidays) dolphins tend to be a little shyer and a little scarcer as the bays get busier.
Best time to see whales?
July and October is whale season.
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Why do you have a no dive down policy?
By floating on the surface, a clear passage is made for dolphins to pass below. Diving down can result in disruption of natural behaviour and causes addition stress.
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What type of boat do you use?
We operate an 8m semi rigid dive boat ZODIAC. Avalon takes a maximum of 10/2 participants and 4 crew. The surf launch is not recommended for fragile, unfit peeps or children under 5.
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Why do you launch at first light & not in bad weather?
Encountours take place at first light to avoid winds that often pick up during the course of the day. Choppy sea state makes it difficult to spot dolphins & in-water observations become less in high seas due to large swell close to the coastline. Your safety & comfort is our responsibility when at sea. Every effort will be made to double up a launch on one day, use spare days or do an extended launch if in the event we do not go due to sea state.
Why are encountours kept to 10/2 participants?
This is the amount of people we take due to comfortability and regulations. You are joined by a crew of 3-4.
If I have a big group, can you launch 2 boats?
No, we have one boat and follow a one boat policy. Only one boat may approach a pod of dolphins at any given time.
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Will equipment (mask, snorkel, fins) be available?
Yes these can be provided on the day. Lost gear is charged for.
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What about sharks?
Since the establishment of the program we have never had any problems with sharks.
Do we need wetsuits?
During summer wetsuits are not required however rash vest and lycra leggings are great to keep stingers (Jellyfish, bluebottles) at bay. Wetsuits required for winter as water temperature and wind chill drops. Very limited wetsuit hire is available.
Do you cater for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers however are NOT permitted into the water and experience the dolphins and whales from the boat. A fair level of swimming is required.
Why can you NOT guarantee a dolphin swim?
Because they are wild.
Why minimum numbers?
In order for us to meet our minimum costs we require a minimum number of participants. If group size is four or more we can accommodate most dates.
Terms &
Conditions
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Due to the nature of wild dolphins, sightings are not guaranteed.
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Tours are subject to sea state and are best early morning when conditions are calmer, oceans quieter & dolphins generally more accommodating. DERC is not responsible for the weather, species abundance & behaviour, all of which are factors that influence your experience.
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​​DERC reserves the right to re-schedule or cancel launches/boat tours due to sea state and weather.
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Swimming is a prerequisite for entering into the water.​
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Not suitable under 5's, fragile, weak or fearful.
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Pre-Bookings require 50% deposit, balance due 30 days prior to arrival.
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On-site bookings, first come first serve. 20% CASH weather refundable deposit 24hr in advance at the Center. Balance payable by card/cash on the day. On-site rates are charged in Meticais and include VAT.
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Tours cancelled by DERC will be refunded.
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No refunds on missed tours or late cancelations -48hrs.
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Minimum charter fees apply 4-6peeps.​​