Moray Firth is home to the largest bottlenose dolphins in the world and the centre is strategically located at Spey Bay, about 2 hours drive from Aberdeen. Other than dolphins, you may also catch a glimpse of ospreys, seals and otters if you are lucky.
At the Scottish Dolphin Centre, you can opt to go on the Icehouse Tour happening at 12.15pm and 3.15pm, lasting about 45 minutes. Built in 1830, the Tugnet icehouse is the largest surviving icehouse in the UK, used for storing ice in the past, which is used for keeping fish fresh for transportation. The tour incorporates the "Dry Dive" experience, the "Bones Room" and a talk about the salmon fishing heritage of the Spey river. We were also briefed on how to identify a dolphin vs whale. The guided tour is free, however you may give a small donation to the centre.
Other than the tour, there is also a Wildlife Wander (also lasting approximately 45 minutes), whereby you will be taken on a walk around the vicinity to discover the wildlife. We were extremely lucky as we spotted an osprey 5 minutes into our walk, and we even saw it dive into the water and emerge with a fish through our binoculars. We also spotted various birds and lizards, and our tour guide also pointed out some interesting, as well as dangerous plants you can find in the area. A fun, informative walk. Again, this is free, but do make a small donation to thank them for the work they do here for the conservation of whales and dolphins.
Inside the centre you will also find an interactive exhibition, dolphin cams as well as activities for the kids. There is also a cafe and shop within the centre.
Although we did not spot any dolphins during our visit, we had a fun day out and learned a lot more about dolphins. We also enjoyed our walk at the shingle beach at Spey Bay.
Speyside, whisky territory - BabySumoKids on the rocks ;)
Open daily in Apr-Oct 10.30am to 5pm.
Location: WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre, Spey Bay, Moray IV32 7PJ, Scotland. (Parking available on site)
Tel: +44 01343 820339
Website: http://dolphincentre.whales.org/
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Its an incredible and worth visiting place for all type of people. It might be of special interest to the kids and the young teenagers. Its a lovely site with beautiful sculptures.
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