Cardigan Bay holds Europe’s largest semi-resident bottlenose dolphin population, with three hundred individuals identified. The Special Area of Conservation delivers regular sightings alongside Atlantic grey seals, harbour porpoises, razorbills, gannets, shearwaters, with occasional sunfish, basking sharks, minke whales making appearances. One-hour trips cover Birds Rock, the caves, Cwmtydu and seal colonies. Ninety-minute sailings reach further down the coast towards Llangrannog peninsula. Evening cruises catch sunset across Cardigan Bay. Private charters accommodate celebrations, whilst specialist lobster pot experiences teach children about marine life through hands-on encounters.

From New Quay harbour, where Winston Evans and his father Arden first took passengers out on fishing boat Ynys Enlli in 1955, the world’s longest-running dolphin-spotting company continues operating seven decades later. Winston became Britain’s youngest RNLI coxswain aged twenty-six and served over forty years, whilst simultaneously building the boat trip business into Cardigan Bay’s premier marine wildlife operation. His son Jonathan and wife Gosia now manage the fleet, supported by experienced skippers including Dafydd with twenty-plus years navigating these waters.

Four boats serve different requirements. Suncatcher, custom-built for the seventieth anniversary in 2024, carries seventy-five passengers across two decks with 360-degree viewing, indoor snack bar, proper toilet facilities and island wheelhouse design. Dreamcatcher, launched 2021, limits capacity to twelve for intimate encounters, featuring unrestricted deck access and all-round visibility. Dreamcatcher also has the unique offering that it can be chartered, providing an even more exclusive experience. The iconic Ermol VI (affectionately the red boat) accommodates fifty with new ultra-efficient engines, cushioned seating and partial canopy. Ermol V matches the setup, occasionally offering lobster pot lifting demonstrations that echo those original fishing trips.

All crews carry WISE qualifications, following strict marine codes of conduct. The operation holds Sea Watch Foundation recommended status, with volunteer researchers travelling free to monitor dolphin activity for Welsh Government studies. BBC’s ‘Dolphin Town’ featured the company, capturing that moment generations have experienced, first dolphin sightings from these boats, followed by their children, then grandchildren. Dogs travel free, children under two likewise. Online booking available, though weather determines schedules. Visit Wales Gold Award winners, twice running. Only the best businesses stand the test of time, and it is clear to see why New Quay Boat Trips are still going strong, all these decades later. Pay them a visit and see for yourself!