Preliminary Dates: Saturday 25th July to Sunday 2nd August 2026
National Whale and Dolphin Watch is a 9-day citizen science event dedicated to studying and protecting cetaceans in UK waters.
We are currently seeking National Whale and Dolphin Watch assistants (remote and on-site in New Quay). Please click here to find out more. Deadline: 31st March 2026.
Watches and surveys will be taking place across the country to create a ‘snapshot’ view of what can be seen in our UK coastal waters. The data collected during this event will enable us to develop an idea of the distribution of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the UK. This event is a great opportunity for everyone to become involved in the research which goes into understanding and protecting these magnificent creatures.
As an marine lover, you can make a difference by participating in this annual event organised by Sea Watch Foundation.
To view our Official Volunteer Training, please click here.
This year we are trying to go as paperless as possible so we are encouraging everyone to do their surveys and report their sightings using our free SeaWatcher App which can be downloaded from Google Play or the Apple Store. You can find out more information on how to use our App here.
View the 2025 preliminary sightings here, and our Online RoundUp of the event here
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Pat Douglass, Chanonry Point, 26/07/2025 -
Alistair Arbuckle, Chanonry Point, 29/07/2025 -
SWF, Mwnt, 26/07/2025 -
Alistair Arbuckle, Chanonry Point, 30/07/2025 -
Kirsten Hintner, Rame Head, 30/07/2025 -
Jo Richardson, Seaton Sluice, 27/07/2025 -
Marine Discovery Penzance, Penzance, 27/07/2025 -
Paul Castle, Sandside Head, 01/08/2025
Find out more
Find out more about National Whale and Dolphin Watch through our Frequently Asked Questions
Click here to learn more about what was seen and where during NWDW 2024!
Read our 2022 National Whale and Dolphin Watch report here.
