The Port of Aberdeen is one of the best places in the United Kingdom for dolphin watching, whether from land or from the sea. Binoculars are not needed. The narrow passage leading into the River Dee promotes the concentration of fish that dolphins take advantage of for feeding. Moreover, in Aberdeen’s port, mostly large and slow boats pass through, traveling in straight lines and thus affecting dolphins less.
From this North Sea coast, you can appreciate some of the largest cetaceans in the world. The most numerous population in northwest Scotland consists of bottlenose dolphins and common dolphins, ranging in size from 1.9 to 3.9 meters.
From the port, you can also see seals, otters, porpoises, minke whales, humpback whales, and more than 200 species of birds. Birds feeding or floating on the water suggest the presence of dolphins below the surface.
Most Visible in Spring
In Aberdeen, bottlenose and common dolphins can be seen jumping and splashing at any time of the year, especially between January and June. During this period, they feed near the surface and can be seen in groups.
There are fewer sightings between July and December. During the second half of the year, they feed more in the depths and only come to the surface to breathe. Nevertheless, in summer, from the port or aboard the NorthLink ferry, you can see white-beaked dolphins and gray dolphins when the boat leaves Aberdeen or when the sea is calmer.
From Torry Battery Lookout
A privileged spot for dolphin watching is the Torry Battery lookout in Aberdeen, a historical monument that served as a training ground and barracks for soldiers during World War I and II.
At Torry Battery is the Greyhope Bay Centre, a modern café that serves as a learning and connection center with the coast. From there, you have a panoramic view of the river mouths into the North Sea and, of course, the marine mammals.
For those who wish for a more enriching experience, several tourism companies offer exciting boat excursions specifically designed for dolphin watching. These excursions, led by expert marine guides, provide the opportunity to learn about local marine life and observe these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat.
