Dolphin Survey Boat Trips in New Quay, Wales
Experience intimate dolphin encounters and marine wildlife discovery on small, ethical boat trips from New Quay’s scenic Cardigan Bay.
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips offers intimate wildlife excursions from New Quay, Wales, focusing on the bottlenose dolphins of Cardigan Bay. Limited to 12 passengers, these 1.5-hour trips provide ample space for photography and feature knowledgeable guides who share insights on local marine life. Guests enjoy sightings of dolphins, seals, and seabirds, with the unique experience of listening to dolphin sounds through an underwater microphone. The tours emphasize respectful wildlife observation and support marine conservation efforts.
A brief summary to Dolphin Survey Boat Trips
- Patent Slip Building, CBMWC, Glanmor Terrace, New Quay, SA45 9PS, GB
- +441545560032
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance to secure one of the limited 12 seats, especially during peak seasons.
- Bring a camera with a zoom lens for capturing dolphins and seals from a respectful distance.
- Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing as weather on the bay can change quickly.
- Listen carefully to the onboard guide for fascinating insights and use the hydrophone to hear dolphin sounds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Cardigan to New Quay, which runs approximately every 1-2 hours. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, and the bus stops near Glanmor Terrace, within walking distance of the boat trip departure point. Tickets cost around £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving to New Quay is straightforward via the A487 road. Allow 45-60 minutes from Cardigan. Parking is available near the Patent Slip Building, but spaces can be limited during peak season. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 per day.
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Taxi
Local taxi services can provide direct transport from nearby towns such as Cardigan or Aberystwyth. Travel times vary from 30 to 90 minutes depending on origin. Expect fares between £20 and £60 depending on distance.
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Dolphin Survey Boat Trips
Immersive Wildlife Encounters on Cardigan Bay
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips operates from New Quay, a charming coastal town in West Wales, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. The boat trips typically last around 1.5 hours and are deliberately limited to a maximum of 12 passengers to ensure a comfortable and personal experience. This small group size allows guests to move freely around the boat, capturing photographs and enjoying unobstructed views of the marine wildlife.Expert Guidance and Educational Insights
Each trip is led by an onboard researcher or knowledgeable guide who provides engaging commentary about the local ecosystem, dolphin behavior, and the broader marine environment of Cardigan Bay. Guests learn about the seals, seabirds, and porpoises that inhabit the area, as well as conservation efforts aimed at protecting these species. The guides foster an educational atmosphere, answering questions and adapting their explanations to all ages, making the tours family-friendly and informative.Respectful and Ethical Wildlife Observation
The company prioritizes the welfare of the dolphins and other wildlife by maintaining a respectful distance, allowing the animals to behave naturally without disturbance. This ethical approach ensures that sightings are both genuine and sustainable. A standout feature of the tours is the use of a hydrophone, an underwater microphone that lets passengers listen to the dolphins’ vocalizations, adding a fascinating sensory dimension to the experience.Scenic Coastal Setting and Marine Biodiversity
The boat trips explore the stunning coastline around New Quay, showcasing the natural beauty of Cardigan Bay. Passengers often spot seals basking on rocks and a variety of seabirds in flight, enriching the wildlife viewing experience. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make the journey relaxing and visually captivating, suitable for nature lovers and photographers alike.Community and Conservation Commitment
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips is closely connected with the local marine wildlife centre and contributes to ongoing research and conservation projects. By joining a trip, visitors support these efforts financially and through increased awareness. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its careful operational practices and educational mission.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Operating daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, the tours are accessible to a wide audience including families, solo travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The boats provide shelter and seating with sun and rain protection, ensuring comfort in variable weather. The relatively short duration of the trips makes them suitable for day visitors and those seeking a memorable yet manageable outdoor adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Traeth Graig y Don
10.0 km
Discover Traeth Graig y Don, where Welsh history meets breathtaking coastal landscapes in a serene and timeless setting.
Sloeberry Farm
18.5 km
Eco-friendly lodges and canvas tents near Aberporth beach offering peaceful countryside escapes with private hot tubs and stunning starry skies.
Cardigan Guildhall Market
25.2 km
Discover Cardigan Guildhall Market, a historic indoor market blending heritage charm with vibrant local trade in the heart of Cardigan.
Cardigan Walks
25.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Cardigan with Cardigan Walks, your ultimate tour guide to nature and history.
Castle Hotel
28.7 km
Historic charm and cozy comfort converge at Aberystwyth’s Castle Hotel, a welcoming coastal retreat with unique drinks and friendly hospitality.
Nwy Prydain Beacon
30.0 km
Historic beacon atop Constitution Hill offering panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into Aberystwyth’s industrial heritage.
Dyfed Chimneys
38.9 km
Discover expert chimney sweeping and stove building at Dyfed Chimneys in Carmarthen, where safety meets craftsmanship in the heart of Wales.
Carmarthen Work House
39.4 km
Explore the historic Carmarthen Work House, a powerful testament to Wales’ social welfare past and resilience through times of hardship.
Brynellen
39.6 km
Explore Bryn Celli Ddu, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb on Anglesey, famed for its ancient burial chamber and summer solstice alignment.
Dyfed Powys Police Federation
39.7 km
Discover the Dyfed Powys Police Federation in Carmarthen for a unique perspective on local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
South African War Memorial
39.9 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Gwal y Filiast
40.6 km
Explore Gwal y Filiast, a mysterious Neolithic burial chamber steeped in Welsh legend and ancient history near Whitland.
Preseli Hills
40.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Preseli Hills, a majestic mountain range in Pembrokeshire, Wales, offering stunning views, rich history, and outdoor adventures.
Ynyslas National Nature Reserve
40.7 km
Explore the untouched beauty of Ynyslas National Nature Reserve, where stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife await every nature lover.
Cerig y Penrhyn
41.5 km
Explore the enchanting Cerig y Penrhyn, a historical landmark in Wales that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant marine life of Cardigan Bay through interactive exhibits, dolphin-spotting, and conservation at New Quay’s marine wildlife centre.
The Black Lion - New Quay, West Wales
0.2 km
Historic clifftop pub and hotel in New Quay blending Welsh heritage, Dylan Thomas lore, and stunning coastal views.
New Quay Harbour
0.2 km
Discover New Quay Harbour, a scenic Welsh fishing village famed for its dolphins, sandy beaches, and rich maritime heritage on the stunning Cardigan Bay coast.
The Red Lion Inn
5.9 km
A beautifully restored 200-year-old Welsh pub offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Ffos-y-ffin.
Llanerchaeron
9.1 km
A Georgian estate frozen in time—three centuries of Welsh rural heritage preserved in one remarkable place.
Carreg Slic
9.8 km
Discover Carreg Slic, the legendary sea stack of Llangrannog, where natural beauty meets Welsh folklore on a stunning Blue Flag beach.
Penbryn Beach
12.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Penbryn Beach, a nearly mile-long sandy cove framed by woodland and cliffs on Wales’ stunning Cardigan Bay coast.
Tresaith Waterfall
13.8 km
Discover the rare coastal waterfall cascading onto sandy shores at Tresaith Beach, a serene gem along Wales’ Cardigan Bay coast.
Internal Fire Museum of Power
13.8 km
Discover the vibrant history of steam and internal combustion engines brought to life in the scenic Welsh countryside at the Internal Fire Museum of Power.
Tresaith
13.9 km
Discover Tresaith Beach’s rare waterfall, Blue Flag sands, and vibrant marine life on Wales’ scenic Ceredigion coast.
In the Welsh Wind Distillery
15.3 km
Discover Wales’ smallest distillery crafting bespoke gins and spirits in a charming rural setting at the Gogerddan Arms, Tanygroes.
Traeth Penloin
15.9 km
A wild, windswept Welsh beach where solitude and natural beauty reign supreme.
Newcastle Emlyn Castle
20.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a rare Welsh-built stone castle overlooking the scenic River Teifi, rich in history and legend.
National Wool Museum
21.1 km
Explore Wales’s wool heritage at the National Wool Museum, where historic mills and working machinery bring textile traditions to life.
Mwnt Beach
21.1 km
Discover Mwnt Beach, a secluded sandy bay with stunning cliffs, abundant wildlife, and medieval charm on the scenic Cardigan coast.
Essential places to dine
The Old Watch House
0.2 km
Fresh seafood and stunning sea views combine in a welcoming coastal restaurant with vegan options and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
The Pepper Pot Bar and Grill
0.2 km
Cozy bistro and grill in New Quay offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and scenic harbor views with friendly service.
Penrhiwllan Inn
0.7 km
Traditional Welsh pub with cozy fires, hearty homecooked meals, and local ales in the charming seaside town of New Quay.
Y Seler
7.4 km
Boutique harbour-side hotel with vibrant rooms, fresh seafood dining, and stunning views in the heart of Aberaeron.
The Stubborn Duckling Ltd
7.5 km
A cozy, modern restaurant in Aberaeron’s historic square, renowned for quality food and warm Welsh hospitality.
New Inn Ceredigion
9.4 km
Charming country pub in Rhydlewis offering hearty English cuisine, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in scenic Ceredigion.
Emlyn Cafe
14.7 km
Discover Emlyn Cafe in Tan-y-groes – your perfect breakfast spot for delicious food and warm hospitality amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
The Boy Ashore
15.6 km
Rustic beachside dining with fresh seafood and stunning ocean views on Dyffryn Beach, Aberporth’s coastal gem.
Caffi Sgadan
15.6 km
Savor fresh local seafood and classic fish & chips in a friendly, casual café nestled in Aberporth’s charming coastal village.
Gwarcefel Arms
16.1 km
A charming Welsh pub in Pren-gwyn offering superb fish and chips, lively music nights, and warm local hospitality in a cozy countryside setting.
The Barn at Pengarreg
17.0 km
Coastal dining and drinks with stunning views near Pengarreg Caravan Park in Llanrhystud, perfect for relaxed Welsh seaside hospitality.
Daffodil at Penrhiwllan
18.1 km
A vibrant, food-led country pub in scenic Penrhiwllan offering fresh local dishes, craft beers, and a colorful, welcoming atmosphere.
Caemorgan Mansion
23.1 km
Elegant Georgian guest house offering historic charm and tranquil comfort near Cardigan Bay's scenic coast.
The Nags Head
24.3 km
A cozy Welsh gastropub in Abercych blending traditional charm with inclusive, locally inspired cuisine and warm hospitality.
Flat Rock Bistro
24.9 km
Relax and dine with panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and Pembrokeshire National Park at Flat Rock Bistro, a cozy spot for classic British cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Box of Delights
0.1 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local crafts in a warm, charming boutique nestled in the heart of New Quay’s scenic Glyn Square.
The Shell Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique seashell treasures and coastal gifts in the heart of New Quay at The Shell Shop, open daily with friendly service and seaside charm.
London House Stores
15.4 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Aberporth, offering fresh local produce, essentials, and seaside goods daily until late evening.
Fair & Fabulous
20.9 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and sustainable treasures at Fair & Fabulous, Newcastle Emlyn’s premier Fair Trade boutique.
B&M Store with Garden Centre
24.0 km
Budget-friendly shopping meets garden centre expertise in Cardigan's largest discount store.
Y R Hen Emporiwm
25.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Y R Hen Emporiwm, Cardigan’s welcoming gift shop open daily.
Mundos
25.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Mundos, Cardigan’s welcoming gift shop with a curated selection of treasures.
Cardi Ent Party Store
25.1 km
Your go-to party shop in Cardigan for balloons, greeting cards, karaoke rentals, and mobile disco fun, open Monday to Saturday.
ADERYN
25.2 km
Charming boutique offering unique fashion accessories in the historic heart of Cardigan, Wales.
The prep shop uk
25.2 km
Cardigan’s trusted army and navy surplus shop offering authentic military gear, prepping supplies, and outdoor equipment for enthusiasts and adventurers.
Apricot
25.2 km
Discover timeless ladies' fashion and personalized style advice at Apricot Boutique in Cardigan’s historic market town.
Tŷ Hafan Shop
25.2 km
Explore unique finds and support a charitable cause at Tŷ Hafan Shop in Cardigan - where every purchase makes a difference.
The Eco Shop
25.2 km
Discover sustainable treasures and community spirit at The Eco Shop, Cardigan’s beloved secondhand store.
The Cardigan Bay Collective
25.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and local artisan treasures at The Cardigan Bay Collective in Cardigan’s Canolfan Teifi.
Cardigan Antiques & Collectables
25.2 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and timeless collectibles in the charming multi-level Cardigan Antiques & Collectables shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sea Horse Inn
0.3 km
A friendly, traditional Welsh pub in New Quay known for local ales, lively quiz nights, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Penrhiwgaled Arms
2.7 km
A cozy, family-run pub in Cross Inn offering hearty Welsh fare, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere near New Quay.
Cadwgan Inn
7.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture in a cozy, old-fashioned setting with a warm fire and friendly locals in Aberaeron’s Cadwgan Inn.
Prince of Wales
7.4 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Aberaeron serving classic home-cooked dishes in a cozy, friendly atmosphere with a beer garden.
The Gilfach Inn
7.9 km
A cozy Welsh village pub with local ales, hearty food, and a scenic beer garden in the peaceful village of Mydroilyn.
Ship Inn, Tresaith
13.9 km
Seaside pub with stunning Cardigan Bay views, cozy rooms, and classic Welsh fare just steps from Tresaith’s golden beach and waterfall.
Tafarn y Vale / Vale of Aeron
14.0 km
A warm, community-owned pub in Felinfach offering hearty fare, local ales, and lively events in a welcoming Welsh countryside setting.
The Ship Bar & Grill
15.6 km
Traditional Welsh pub with hearty homemade food, sea views, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Aberporth.
The Cliff Hotel & Spa
24.9 km
Cliffside luxury and serene spa indulgence with panoramic views over Cardigan Bay’s stunning coastline.
The Lamb Inn
25.1 km
A cozy and affordable traditional pub in Cardigan offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere.
Saddlers Arms
25.3 km
Cozy traditional Welsh pub on Cardigan’s High Street, known for cask ales, friendly locals, and lively nights with karaoke and jukebox tunes.
Bar 45
25.3 km
Discover Bar 45, Cardigan’s intimate bar serving authentic Welsh whisky, cocktails, and local brews in a cozy setting with a secret garden.
The Castle Inn
25.4 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Cardigan offering quality ales, cozy atmosphere, and a true taste of Welsh hospitality.
Albion Aberteifi
25.4 km
An adults-only maritime hotel in Cardigan blending historic charm with riverside views and crafted cocktails.
Cardiff Arms
25.8 km
A family-run pub in Cilgerran offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Welsh countryside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Yokoswnb
28.9 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
Pier Pressure
29.0 km
Experience Aberystwyth’s vibrant nightlife at Pier Pressure, a lively nightclub set on the historic Royal Pier by scenic Cardigan Bay.
Savannah's Night Club
39.9 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Lucifer's Nightlife
39.9 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
The Club Barmouth
60.1 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
Sands Nightclub
60.6 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Basement Sessions
61.6 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of Llanidloes at Basement Sessions, where eclectic music and vibrant energy create memorable experiences.
Eddie Rocks
62.0 km
A vibrant multi-floor nightclub in Haverfordwest offering energetic nights, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere by the waterfront.
Labirynth
62.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Haverfordwest at Labirynth, where unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
New Horizons
63.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
64.6 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Hazewell Club
64.8 km
Discover the Hazewell Club in Tenby: a cozy sports club offering a warm atmosphere and local drinks amidst stunning coastal views.
Jac’s Mansion
65.8 km
Experience welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Jac’s Mansion, Builth Wells’ iconic gay nightclub with a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
Comlongon
66.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
The Star Club
70.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Star Club, Pembroke Dock's premier bar for unforgettable evenings filled with music, drinks, and fun.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly