An unforgettable encounter on the Costa Brava
Just a few days ago, while sailing near our coastline, a group of bottlenose dolphins swam alongside the sailboat. They leapt, glided parallel to the boat, and seemed as curious about us as we were about them. In that moment, the silence of the sea and the emotion of the experience reminded us of something essential: sharing the sea is a privilege.
These moments are part of what we offer at Set Sail Costa Brava. Through wind-powered and paddle-based sports—whether sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding—we experience the Mediterranean in an authentic, conscious, and silent way, without disturbing its inhabitants.
But how much do we really know about these dolphins that fascinate us so?
The bottlenose dolphin: A curious neighbour in the Mediterranean
The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is one of the most well-known and studied species of cetaceans. Recognisable by its robust body and characteristic “smile,” it inhabits temperate and tropical waters worldwide. In the Mediterranean Sea, it is a common resident species found both near the coast and in open waters.
These dolphins are highly social, forming structured groups that vary in size and composition. Their behaviour includes complex social interactions, acoustic communication, and cooperative hunting. They are also known for their intelligence and learning abilities, which help them adapt to different environments.
Presence in the Costa Brava: Local insights
In the waters off the Costa Brava, bottlenose dolphins are frequently observed interacting with human activities such as fishing. Various scientific groups and local organisations carry out studies to better understand their behaviour, distribution, and interactions with humans. Several hundred individuals have been identified in the area, suggesting a notable presence, although research continues to determine whether they are stable resident groups or part of a wider mobile population in the Mediterranean.
Conservation and threats
The Mediterranean subpopulation of bottlenose dolphins is classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, according to its most recent 2021 assessment. This category reflects the high risk of population decline due to ongoing threats: incidental capture in fishing gear, increasing maritime traffic, acoustic and chemical pollution, and habitat degradation. This highlights the urgency of promoting a more mindful coexistence between human use of the sea and marine conservation.
Encounters that inspire: Silent navigation as a path to connection
During our regular outings along the Costa Brava, it is common to spot bottlenose dolphins swimming close to our boats. These encounters are always moving and remind us of the value of low-impact, respectful navigation.
At Set Sail Costa Brava, we promote non-motorised water sports like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. These activities allow us to enjoy the sea in a healthy, quiet way—without disturbing marine life. They connect us to the natural world, teach us to observe, and invite us to coexist with the sea in balance.
Through our sailing courses, we not only teach navigation—we share a philosophy of respect and awareness toward the marine environment. Because protection starts with knowledge and connection.