The OFF SHORE wind park

Discover the Leucate floating wind farm - an adventure at the heart of energy innovation!

SEA OUTINGS IN LEUCATE

On course for marine wind turbines!

Embark on a unique excursion in the Mediterranean aboard our motorboat l’Azur and discover the EFGL (Éoliennes Flottantes du Golfe du Lion) pilot floating wind farm, a first in France , located 16 km off the coast of Leucate and Le Barcarès. This 3-hour tour plunges you into the world of renewable energies, up close to the recently installed giant 186-meter-high wind turbines – just over half the height of the Eiffel Tower.

Duration: 3 hours (round trip),

Start: Quai Éric Tabarly, Port-Leucate,

Period: May to September (weather permitting),

Reservations essential: Places are limited, so book online or by phone,

Accessibility: We welcome people with reduced mobility (please contact us to arrange your visit).

A SEA TRIP

Rates :

Adult: €30
Children (12-18 years): €20
Children (5-12 years): €16
Free for children under 5.
Group rates: From 20 people (please contact us).
Privatization: The boat can be privatized for your events (up to 115 people).

But what species can you come across in this area? When and where to observe them? And above all, how can we do it responsibly? Let's dive into the fascinating world of dolphins.

The Mediterranean, a privileged habitat for dolphins

The Mediterranean is a semi-enclosed sea, renowned for its unique biodiversity, which accounts for just 1% of the planet’s water surface, but is home to 8% of all marine mammal species. It is also home to 1,200 animal species and 500 plant species. Between Leucate and Barcarès, in the Gulf of Lion Marine Park, you’ll find 8 species of cetacean, including sperm whales, bottlenose whales and some of the largest animals on the planet, fin whales… the deep waters and nutrient-rich currents create an ideal environment for dolphins, which find an abundance of food and ideal conditions for reproduction. Bottlenose dolphins, blue-white dolphins and other marine mammals roam freely, offering nature lovers unforgettable encounters. Take time out with your family to go cetacean-watching, a great time for children, where you can observe marine mammals and birds.

Dolphin species to watch off Cap Leucate

Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

The bottlenose dolphin, also known as the bottlenose dolphin, is the Mediterranean’s most emblematic species. Recognizable by its robust body and short beak, it measures between 2 and 4 meters. Sociable and curious, it often approaches boats, offering magical moments for observers. Between Perpignan and Sète, it is frequently seen close to the coast, where it hunts for fish and cephalopods. An encounter with the dolphin is often the highlight of an outing.

Blue and white dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba)

With its bright colors and blue-and-white patterns, the blue-and-white dolphin is a spectacle in itself. Smaller than the bottlenose dolphin (around 2 meters), it is known for its acrobatic leaps and boundless energy. This species, which lives in large groups, is often seen offshore, in the deep waters between Port La Nouvelle, Leucate and Barcarès. Watching them is an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Common dolphin (Delphinus delphis)

The common dolphin, recognizable by its dark back and golden flanks, takes its name from the fact that it can be found in all the seas of our globe, but is rarer on our French coasts, frequenting the eastern Mediterranean instead. Unfortunately, the degradation of certain coastal areas does not favor it. Smaller and more slender than the bottlenose dolphin, it moves in compact groups and is very active at the surface.

Other cetaceans...

While dolphins are the stars of the region, other marine mammals can also be seen offshore, such as fin whales and sperm whales. Their sightings are rarer, but still possible for the lucky and patient. Aboard the Azur, Leucate Evasion Marine’s motorboat, a naturalist will accompany you on this natural walk from Port Leucate! He’ll be on hand to explain and help you discover the fauna: sunfish, loggerhead turtles, bluefin tuna, basking sharks, various birds such as shearwaters, cormorants and storm-petrels… and much more.

RESERVE NOW

When and where can you see dolphins in their natural habitat?

Best periods

Spring and summer are the ideal seasons to encounter dolphins. Warmer waters, mild weather and sunny days favor their presence near the surface.

Key areas

Apart from Leucate, there are several well-known dolphin-watching spots between Perpignan and Sète:

Near the Espiguette islands: These shallow areas are often frequented by dolphins.
Le golfe du Lion: Deep, nutrient-rich waters make this an ideal location.

Come aboard our boat, the Azur, for a sea excursion!

To maximize your chances of observation, opt for a sea trip off Cap Leucate with us. Departing from Port Leucate, quai Eric Tabarly, the crew and a naturalist will be waiting to take you on a dolphin-watching expedition! The program includes a family outing to contemplate cetaceans and discover seabirds, an activity that’s sure to delight children. This marine mammal-watching outing is scheduled every day.

Our tips for making the most of this walk

Contemplating dolphins is an unforgettable experience, but it’s essential to do so in a way that respects their natural environment. Here are a few tips:

Respect distances: Don’t approach closer than 100 metres to avoid disturbing marine animals.
Choose eco-responsible operators: Choose companies committed to protecting species.
Avoid pollution: Don’t throw garbage into the sea, and keep noise to a minimum so as not to disturb the dolphins.
Participate in citizen science: Report your sightings to organizations such as Réseau-Cétacés or Observatoire Pelagis to contribute to research.

Protecting dolphins

Despite their beauty and popularity, Mediterranean dolphins face many threats: plastic and chemical pollution, intense maritime traffic leading to fatal collisions and noise pollution disrupting their senses, enabling them to communicate with each other and hunt, overfishing of their prey, disturbance… Fortunately, local and international initiatives are working to protect them. By supporting these efforts and adopting responsible behavior, everyone can help preserve these magnificent creatures. Leucate offers a unique window onto the world of dolphins. Whether it’s the bottlenose dolphin, the blue-and-white dolphin or the rarer common dolphin, every encounter is a moment of grace and wonder. By observing these animals responsibly, we can not only enjoy their beauty, but also contribute to their protection. So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable excursion?

Are dolphins dangerous?

No, dolphins are not dangerous to humans, but it is important not to feed or touch them to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

Can you swim with dolphins?

It is not advisable to swim with dolphins in their natural environment, as this can stress them. Prefer observations from a boat.

with family or friends

OTHER IDEAS FOR SEA OUTINGS

Leucate Evasion Marine offers sea excursions for families and friends. You’re in for a real treat!