Witnessing Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins frolicking in the surf is as iconic a sight on Delaware beaches as any local landmark. But visitors and locals can do much more than merely observe. They can also help collect important data as they learn about our local dolphin population. For the past few years, the Marine Education Research and Rehabilitation (MERR) Institute has teamed up with Cape Water Tours and Taxi (CWT) to provide visitors with an immersive experience that not only provides spectacular views but also offers opportunities to engage in citizen science while snapping pictures of the energetic aquatic neighbors.
Every Wednesday and Saturday mornings throughout the summer, a naturalist from MERR will lead passengers on an informative excursion to learn more about the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin, one of the 37 species of marine mammals and sea turtles within the organization’s purview. The trip begins at 9:30 a.m. on both days, departing from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal in Lewes, with an additional tour on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. (which also departs from the terminal). For the following 90 minutes, passengers will learn more about MERR Institute, the life and habitat of the Bottlenose Dolphin, and have the opportunity to submit their images as part of a collaboration with Happywhale. Happywhale is an online platform that scans the images of dorsal fins and looks for any potential matches within its database, helping to track the local population and increase global understanding and caring for their marine environments through conservation science and education. MERR naturalists lead the tour to provide fun, engaging information and answer questions from passengers throughout the trip. A portion of each passenger’s ticket will be donated to MERR Institute to help fund its research and rehabilitation efforts.
“Visitors not only have a chance to witness these beautiful animals in their natural environment but also help collect valuable information.”
Cape Water Tours is the only local boat tour operation that is certified by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Whale and Dolphin Conservation’s WhaleSENSE program that promotes responsible viewing practices and requires the crew to complete a training program to ensure the safety of the animals. The tours are listed on the Cape Water Tours website where visitors can book their experience and not only have a chance to witness these beautiful animals in their natural environment but also help collect valuable information on them to ensure their return for generations to come.
If you encounter a stranded marine mammal or sea turtle, contact MERR Institute at (302) 864.0304 or email merrinstitute@gmail.com. MERR is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the conservation of marine mammals and sea turtles and their habitat. MERR provides rescue and response for stranded marine animals that occur throughout the State of Delaware.
Rob Rector has served as naturalist and board member for 20 years, is a certified Protected Species Observer, and leads weekly dolphin observation tours that use citizen science to gather information on our local Bottlenose Dolphin populations.