Let’s dive into the world of adorable dolphins, where words like “lovely” don’t do them justice. Let’s learn more about these charming creatures!
Dolphin Diet
Dolphins primarily eat fish, squid, crabs, and shellfish. They use various methods to catch their prey, such as driving them with water currents or spotting prey underwater and quickly chasing it down. Dolphins rely on their high intelligence to capture food. Although dolphins eat several times a day, they don’t consume a large quantity at once—only around 20% of their body weight. They tend to search for food frequently and consume smaller amounts multiple times.
Dolphin Sounds
Dolphins communicate primarily using high-frequency sounds, different from human sounds, as they produce sound through water rather than air. The sound, generated using air in their lungs, travels through special organs before being transmitted into water. This waterborne sound is unique, often perceived as a dolphin’s “song” by humans.
Dolphins have a systematic sound structure for communication, which they use to interact, understand one another, and cooperate in hunting.
Nicknames for Dolphins
Dolphins have various nicknames, including the “Hidden Heroes of the Marine Ecosystem” due to their role in maintaining ocean balance. As highly intelligent marine mammals, they are also called the “Smart Predators of the Sea.”
Dolphins are social and cooperative, interacting with complex communication. They often hunt and travel in groups, so it’s common to encounter dozens of dolphins at a time.
Dolphin Habitat
Different dolphin species live in diverse habitats, generally preferring warm waters. Some inhabit deep seas, while others are found in shallow coastal areas.
In Hawaii, the most commonly sighted dolphin is the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin. Known for its active nature and social behavior, it’s famous for its characteristic spinning jumps.
Features of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins:
- Physical Characteristics: These small dolphins grow up to 2-2.5 meters with a long, slender body and snout.
- Behavior: Known for playful high jumps and spins, they display this behavior as part of social interactions or during hunts.
- Habitat: Common in warm tropical and subtropical waters, especially in deep seas around Hawaii.
- Social Structure: Spinner dolphins live in large groups, forming strong social bonds.
- Diet: Primarily feed on small fish and squid, hunting mainly in the evening.
Because of their beauty and unique behavior, Hawaiian spinner dolphins are a popular sight for tourists.
Dolphin & You: Hawaii’s Best Dolphin Tour
Since 1989, Dolphin & You has been one of Hawaii’s most popular dolphin tours. This eco-friendly tour has been awarded as a “Best Tour” for several years, recognized for its safety and popularity.
What Can You Experience with Dolphin & You?
- Oahu Dolphin Watching: You can witness dozens of Hawaiian spinner dolphins swimming near the boat, as these social dolphins enjoy being around people.
- Snorkeling: After dolphin watching, the tour moves to a snorkeling spot with sea turtles and tropical fish. Life jackets, masks, and fins are provided, so there’s no need to bring your own gear. Non-swimmers can also enjoy watching colorful fish and turtles while floating above.
- Ocean Sports: Enjoy activities like stand-up paddleboarding (normally $40-50 in Hawaii), two-person kayaking, and a thrilling water slide from the boat’s second level.
- Lunch: After snorkeling, refuel with your choice of a turkey sandwich, peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or spinach wrap, along with water and lemonade.
- Free Roundtrip Shuttle: A roundtrip shuttle is available between Waikiki and Waianae Harbor (also available from Ko Olina).
- Hula Performance & Hawaiian Cultural Experience: Watch the crew perform the hula and join in! You’ll also hear the Hawaiian chant “E Ho Mai” for a safe journey and plentiful dolphin sightings, creating lasting memories.
- Exclusive Dolphin Tattoo Stickers: Only available with Dolphin & You, these special stickers can be placed wherever you like!
