Dolphin watching is one of the famous attractions enjoyed early mornings in Panglao, Bohol, Philippines. Foreigners and locals alike rent a motorized outrigger boat at around 6 o’clock in the morning at a rate of P200-P500 depending on the negotiation with the boat owner. Some boat owners offers very high rates so be sure to canvass or negotiate first before paying. Dolphin watching is usually experienced at 7 o’clock in the morning near Balicasag Island.
One of the things Bohol is proud of is the preservation of its corals and sea creatures especially the dolphins. Other eco-related preservation destinations in Bohol are the Man-made Forest, Butterfly Conservation Center, Seashell Museum and Bee Farm.
Dolphin Watching
During Dolphin Watching, nobody is allowed to hurt or feed poisonous food to the dolphins. Outrigger Boats usually follow the group of dolphins that are visible in the area so they would leap above the water surface as well as make distinguishing sounds. The problem when following dolphins is the possibility of an outrigger boat hitting another outrigger boat due to the waves and current of the water.
Our motorized outrigger boat
The dolphin jumped
Tourists watching the dolphins
The group of dolphins shows for only 15-30 minutes and will no longer jump out of the water nor show their fins due to the hot climate above the sea level. There are other areas in the waters of Panglao or Bohol where dolphins will show up early in the morning, but it’s only near Balicasag Island that one can experience Dolphin Watching at its best.
If you are planning to view the dolphins, don’t forget to bring your camera and/or telescope. Be sure to be there ahead of time so you can pick a good outrigger boat or you can reserve it days before you’re planning to watch the dolphins. They also offer a tour package or island hopping if you want more fun and adventure in the several islands near Panglao and Bohol. They offer free use of life jackets so you won’t get drowned if you accidentally jump or slip out of the boat during the trip. Have a safe and happy Dolphin Watching!
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About the author
Mark Anthony Maranga is an Educator-Parent to his 3 Homeschooling Kids. He sells Ice Cream and Balloons in Mandaue City, Cebu. Exploring the Philippines tourist attractions together with his family is his passion; they are learning without borders.
hi…pls tell me more about how can we go to this place my friend from germany wants to see the dolphin up close and personal,
Anne,
You can take a plane from Manila to Cebu (45 minutes), then take a fastcraft from Cebu to Bohol (2 hours). Take a taxi or van from Bohol seaport to Panglao/Alona Beach (15 minutes). From the beach take an outrigger or banca and tell them to bring you to the area of the dolphins. These dolphins usually show at around 6:30 am to 7:00 am.
its really beautiful….