Dolphins come in various colors of gray with a lighter underside, which helps to camouflage them from predators and prey. Their natural predators include killer whales, and various types of sharks, as well as bacteria and parasites that can introduce potentially fatal disease. Fishermen can also be a threat to these great creatures when they use purse seine, a large fishing net used for catching schools of fish that stay towards the water’s surface. Dolphins are vulnerable to being caught up in these long, flat, weighted nets that are used to encircle a school of fish. Fortunately, and to their credit, responsible local sport-fishing charters have been known to come to the aid of our poor entangled friends. Señor Zobeyra at Silverados Sportfishing believes that "Dolphins, a great, sensitive, and very smart creature that welcomes everyone at the ocean, are in danger if we don't learn how to protect them from ourselves. We have to respect their natural environment, their natural way of approaching, their natural curiosity."
Dolphins live in pods commonly referred to as "schools." They swim at a leisurely speed of three mph, frolic and dart at seven mph, and when fleeing, can reach 18-20 mph with great effort. Their tail fin (fluke) is used to propel them; the pectoral fins provide directional control; and the dorsal fin provides stability. They love to swim along-side boats as if they are suggesting a game of tag, and surf like a kahuna at the bow. Dolphins can't resist having fun! Local fishermen often stand at the front of boats, as they do on the Dream Maker, and raise their hands up, signaling the dolphins to jump into the air. Fishermen and dolphins have a long-standing understanding of a playful relationship with each other. When dolphins are around, fishers know that fish like the delicious tuna are near. Although, take heed: These dolphins are clever creatures and have been known to steal bait. "I don't know how, but they are way too smart," says Jorge Garrido, manager of Cabo Sport Fishing Fleet. In addition to boats, dolphins enjoy interacting with swimmers and divers. Dolphins are kindred creatures and may even offer you a ride if you gingerly grab on to their dorsal fin.
Our sweet mammals are often seen romping close to shore. As tempting as it is to join them in their natural habitat, remember that dolphins are sea creatures who know how to navigate currents and tides. We humans are not so talented. That said, the perfect alternative to get a guaranteed up close and personal view of the dolphins is the celebrated Cabo Dolphin Center in Cabo San Lucas. Whether you are a swimmer or non-swimmer, it is a place where you can interact with some of these fascinating creatures. Cabo Dolphins has many activity options for all ages, including Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter, and Dolphin Kids. All packages provide visitors with the opportunity to understand the dolphins' anatomy, physiology, natural history, and their amazing underwater communications. You can even have the chance to learn how to feed and train them as you participate in the Trainer for the Day program! There is a staff of experienced dolphin trainers available to educate and guide you through your unforgettable dolphin day. The dolphin center caters to all needs. A well-supervised, interactive dolphin swim is offered for children ages 5 and up, or for any water buff who wants to experience it. Trainer for a Day, the advanced program for adults and children ages 12 and up, includes lunch, a trainer's uniform, dolphin swim time, a diploma, a DVD, and a digital photo of your dolphin training experience. Prices range from $79 to $299 for these extraordinary dolphin encounters. Non-swimmers can enjoy an eye-to-eye view of the dolphins from the underwater portholes, and shop or dine at the on-site amenities. Whether you choose an up-close and personal encounter at The Cabo Dolphin Center or prefer to admire these gentle creatures in their natural habitat, when the dolphins smile at you, give them a wink and be sure you smile back.
