Dolphin Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Most frequent questions and answers

What is the cost or your tours?

Our rates vary by tour. Our Dolphin Watch Eco Tour is $20 for adults and kids ages two and over. Under 2 ride free. Our first trip of the day is only $18 for everybody. The Fireworks Cruise from after Memorial Day to Labor Day are $35 for adults and kids ages two and over. Our Holiday Fireworks Cruises on Sunday, May 29; Monday, July 4th; and Labor Day weekend are $40 for adults and kids ages two and over.

How do I book a trip?

Booking is easy! Please use our online booking system by clicking here or pick up the phone and give us a call at (956) 761-4243.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?

We do offer drinks and snacks on the boats, however you are welcome to bring your own. You can also BYOB, we just ask that you please not bring glass containers onto the boat.

Can I bring my dog with me?

Furry friends are welcome on our trips. They must fit on your lap and not interfere with other guests. Please bring any items necessary to clean up after your pet.

We will see any dolphin?

The Original Dolphin Watch has been taking visitors to view dolphin in their natural habitat since 1988. While there are no guarantees that we will see dolphin, it is very, very rare that we do not encounter at least a small pod during our tours.

On What trip will we see more dolphin?

Dolphin in our area do not pattern their location or behavior based on time of day. Their location and behavior is ever-changing throughout the day, so each tour is a new adventure. Any time of day is a great time to be on the water looking for dolphin. Choose the tour time that works best for you!

Are there Restrooms onboard the boats?

Our vessels are equipped with marine-grade facilities. On the Double Sunshine, our primary dolphin watch boat, we have a men’s and women’s restroom.

What if it rains or is windy?

We will make every effort to notify you as far in advance as possible if it looks like we will not be able to go out because of weather.

Fun Facts

about our dolphin

Dolphins and man have enjoyed a unique bond since the dawn of time and it is ironic that the dolphin’s most dangerous predator is man. Having a better understanding of dolphins is mankind’s first step in conservation of the dolphin.

Dolphins are a very social mammal . Their brains are proportionately bigger than human brains but they do not have as many folds.

Dolphins can tell how distant an object is and how solid it is by sending out sound waves and waiting for the echo to come back. This is called echo location and it takes place in the dolphin’s brain.

Dolphin copulation only lasts 15 to 30 seconds and takes place between males and females, males and males, females and females, young and old.

Dolphins and porpoises are different marine mammals. Dolphins have back swept dorsal fins and a rostrum. Porpoises have blunter faces, triangular dorsal fins and are very rare in the Gulf of Mexico.

Dolphin are conscious breathers which means they must think about every breath they take. They can stay under water, without a breath for 8 to 12 minutes and they have been known to dive 1000 feet.

Dolphins are born with hair on their rostrum, or beaks, but it falls out shortly after birth.

Female dolphins nurse their young 1 to 1 1/2 years and stay with their calves for three to five years.

Dolphins that live close to the coast weigh 300 to 400 pounds and measure 8 feet long. Those living in deeper water can weigh twice as much and stretch out to 10 to 12 feet.

Dolphins make a wide variety of clicks, whistles, squeaks and squawks. One reason that people like dolphins is that their mouths are fixed in a permanent smile.

When dolphins get angry, their eyes get big and they butt into targets of their displeasure or slap them with their tails. Usually peaceful, inquisitive creatures, they are strong enough to kill sharks simply by charging into them.

Dolphins in captivity have been known to rake people with their teeth, whack them with their tails and although rarely, pin trainers on the bottom of their tanks.

Mon-Sat: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am - 7:00pm

33256 State Park Rd 100
South Padre Island, TX 78597

(956) 761-4243

33256 State Park Rd 100

8:00 am - 8:00 pm