Both common dolphins and harbour porpoises can be reliably seen throughout the year. They are relatively easy to tell apart: porpoises are smaller with a triangular shaped dorsal fin (the fin on their back), while the common dolphin has a more curved dorsal fin and is generally more energetic, often breaching and rushing in to interact and play.

Minke whales also call Falmouth Bay home so there is every chance of seeing a dark shape break the surface in a rolling arc. As the smallest of our baleen whales, the minke whale does not have a notably visible blow.

Out of the UK’s two main species of seal, here in Cornwall you are almost exclusively likely to see a grey seal. Look for a small black head floating in the water or a seal ‘hauled up’ on a rock or secluded beach.

As much as it is a true joy to see these incredible animals, it is always important to watch them with respect. Any wildlife interaction should be on the animal’s terms. The general rule is to stay an absolute minimum of 100m away when wildlife watching. For seals, be cautious if a hauled-up animal looks directly at you, as that means that it has been disturbed. Some species, such as dolphins, will choose to approach a boat and ‘bow-ride’, a joyful experience for all involved.

To see all of these incredible animals for yourself on an unforgettable dedicated multi-award winning wildlife watching cruise, AK Wildlife Cruises is running 3, 4 and 5 hour cruises throughout the year and launching their new 8 hour Ultimate All-Day Whale Watching and Pelagic Seabird cruise.

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