They were swimming alongside a local fishing boat and put on a bit of a show for the people on board
15:23, 19 Mar 2026Updated 15:26, 19 Mar 2026
Bottlenose dolphins have been spotted off the coast of north Wales in what is believed to be one of the first sightings of the year at Dulas Bay on Anglesey. The moment was captured by a local skipper, Barry Williams, who was working aboard a fishing boat at the time.
The dolphins swam alongside Barry’s boat for several minutes, at times breaking the surface in unison before slipping back beneath the water.
According to the Sea Watch Foundation, Bottlenose dolphins are one of the best-known and most recognisable marine mammals, noted for their curved dorsal fins, grey colouring and distinctive smiling appearance. Always keep on top of the latest Welsh news with our newsletter
They are said to be highly intelligent and social, and tend to travel in pods – often seen swimming in synchronised groups, sometimes leaping clear of the water.
The moment was captured by a local skipper, Barry Williams
In UK waters, bottlenose dolphins are among the more commonly recorded species, particularly around the west coast.
According to Cardigan Bay Special Areas of Conservation website, Cardigan Bay is one of only two areas around the UK hosting a semi-resident population of bottlenose dolphins. The other is the Moray Firth in Scotland.
The bottlenose dolphins that live around the British Isles are said to be the biggest in the world.
The southern half of Cardigan Bay is an important summer feeding and breeding area for these animals. Conservationists say they use these waters for nurturing and feeding their young, socialising and resting. They can also be frequently seen tail slapping and breaching – leaping several metres out of the water.
They are present around much of the British coastline, including north Wales, although sightings can vary depending on the season and sea conditions.
In Wales, dolphins are most likely to be spotted from April to November, particularly around New Quay and Mwnt, these dolphins are frequently seen on boat trips or from the coast, with mornings and evenings believed to be peak activity times.