Swimming with dolphins is a once-in-a-lifetime activity for many and has become popular among vacationers. While the ARC (Animal Responsibility Cyprus) has banned captive dolphins in Cyprus, you may be able to see them in the wild. Some claim that dolphins are rare while fishermen report having problems with large schools of dolphins. While there are no organized tours in Cyprus where you can swim with the dolphins, you may be able to see the dolphins on a sightseeing boat tour or swim among them on your own. Below are the best steps to follow if you want to encounter dolphins in Cyprus.
Rent a sailboat or yacht and cruise the Mediterranean. Dolphins can be seen both at sea and near the shore. But dolphins in the Mediterranean may look different than what you’re used to seeing elsewhere. Get a good guidebook identifying the different types.
Book a sightseeing boat tour that features possible dolphin sightings. This is a good option if you don’t want the expense or responsibility of captaining your own boat.
Visit Cyprus by cruise ship. There are cruises lasting from three days to 12 days or more. Dolphins can be seen frolicking at sea and following cruise ships in and out of port. Check with your cruise line for dolphin, whale and other boating excursions.
Snorkel or dive off Cyprus. The azure seas surrounding Greece are famous for their beauty, but with animal conservation being a high priority, there are limitations on where you can dive in Greece. But you can book a dive trip and this may put you in a good position to spot dolphins and maybe even swim with them in the wild.
Hang out with the fishermen—see if you can negotiate a ride on one of their boats. Dolphins have been known to get tangled up in their nets.
