During the year 2025, the Barcelona's port has been the scene of a succession of bottlenose dolphin sightings This has attracted the attention of both residents and visitors. In the early hours of June 26, five specimens surprised those who were walking in the area, swimming a short distance from the sculpture. Miraestels of the Rambla de MarTheir presence, although brief and limited to about 15 minutes, did not go unnoticed, as many rushed to capture the moment in images and videos.
These meetings are not an isolated event: so far this year there have already been Nine dolphin sightings have been recorded in the port, a figure significantly higher than the annual average, which is usually around five cases. The last recorded visit before this date was just a few days earlier, on June 20, suggesting that sightings are occurring more frequently and at very short intervals.
Most of these apparitions have taken place in the months of March, April, May and June, which has led port authorities to consider the possibility of be the same group of bottlenose dolphins The one that is moving along the Barcelona coast on a recurring basis. On consecutive occasions, such as on March 9 and 10 or at the end of April and beginning of May, the behavior and number of animals sighted have been similar, which reinforces this hypothesis.
Protocols for the protection of dolphins
In the event of any sighting, the The Port of Barcelona immediately activates a protection protocol. to minimize the impact of human activity on animalsThe main recommendations for boats and people who are near dolphins are: do not approach within 60 meters, avoid sailing at speeds greater than four knots, refrain from sudden maneuvers such as reversing or going in circles, and above all, Do not feed or attempt to interact with cetaceans.
Compliance with these guidelines seeks ensure the safety and well-being of animals, as well as the continuity of port operations without incident. The port emphasizes the importance of avoiding any action that could alter the natural route or behavior of the dolphins, such as excessive noise or crossing their path. This encourages respectful coexistence between the urban dynamics of the port and marine biodiversity.
Other recent appearances and expert recommendations
Official records show that these Frequent sightings are not common And in some cases, groups of up to ten individuals have been observed, as occurred at the end of March at the Moll dels Pescadors. Experts remind us that, although the image of dolphins swimming between boats is spectacular, it is essential to maintain the distance and avoid any pursuit or harassment.
In exceptional situations, such as the appearance of a Dead dolphin on Mar Bella beach During the month of March, authorities urge you not to touch the animals or attempt to return them to the sea. The main recommendation is to immediately call the emergency number 112 so that specialized professionals can take charge and assess the situation.
This rigorous monitoring by port authorities and specialized organizations such as the CRAM Foundation has allowed both living and deceased specimens to receive the necessary care, promoting greater awareness about the care and respect for marine fauna.
The continued presence of bottlenose dolphins on the coast of Barcelona During 2025, it has become a phenomenon that has captured the attention of both scientists and the general public. The reactivation of protocols and citizen engagement in compliance with regulations have been key to maintaining a balanced and safe coexistence between port activity and marine life.
