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Marine Discovery Penzance

Wildlife Watching Sailing Adventure in Penzance, Cornwall

Welcome to Marine Discovery, West Cornwall's original wildlife boat tour.

Embark on a Marine Wildlife Adventure


Shearwater II the Marine Discovery Penzance sailing catamaran

Join us on our sailing catamaran, Shearwater II, for a unique marine wildlife watching adventure. The diversity of the wildlife found in West Cornwall is what makes it special. Trips could encounter grey seals, various seabirds, or different species of dolphins and porpoises, enigmatic ocean sunfish or even giants such as minke whales, humpback whales, basking sharks and leatherback turtles!

Sailing gives you the most special encounter possible, the quiet meaning you can hear the splashes of the gannets as they dive and the whistles of the dolphins as they bowride alongside us check out our videos to see for yourself. Be assured also that you have chosen the most environmentally responsible option.

Part of what makes Marine Discovery exceptional is that we use our trips to collect scientific data. No other tour company in the country does this to the same extent and it is an incredibly important part of our job. Duncan, Hannah and their small team are completely dedicated to giving the best experience possible and are looking forward to welcoming you to Marine Discovery – In 2013 Marine Discovery won the Responsible Whale and Dolphin Watch Operator of the year.

Before you sail on your adventure


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Our sailing catamaran

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Ocean Classroom

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Different Wildlife

What people are saying about Marine Discovery
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Dolphin extravaganza. Book now! 🐬

A fantastic 4 hour trip we both massively enjoyed. We went on the Ocean Discovery trip and saw a great amount of Dolphins, Sea Birds and Seals, as well as the incredible sight of the Cornish coast. If you care about wildlife and the environment, this is most certainly the trip for you as they let the wildlife come to you (which the Dolphins did in abundance for us), instead of motoring into the feeding grounds, disrupting the wildlife, like some other operators. The boat itself is really comfy, with plenty of places to sit and enjoy whats going on around you!

– Adam_y571 -TripAdvisor
Definitely recommend🐬

Definitely recommend the 3 hour tour (we would opt for 4 hours next). Hannah and Duncan were very knowledgeable, not only of the local sea-life (above and below) but also coastal landmarks. They were extremely careful to not disturb feeding cetaceans, remaining at a distance for them to break away and visit us. This was in stark contrast to a tourist tripper boat that ploughed straight into their feeding area. Would definitely recommend a tour with these guys.

– Sean Sabourin -Google Review
Fabulous afternoon 🐬

This afternoon we had a 4 hour trip on Marine Discovery, and were so lucky to see firstly , common dolphin, at a small distance, and then a little later a big pod of Bottle nosed Dolphins. Duncan said it was unusual to see both of these at this time of year. He is very knowledgable and gave us facts and figures of dolphin swim speeds, and bird flight speeds as well as much more interesting information. Such a lovely trip, and all done according to marine conservation code. A really lovely afternoon. Thank you Duncan & Rebecca

– Jill S -TripAdvisor
A brilliant experience 🐬

Had the most brilliant 3 hour trip with Marine Discovery Penzance - been coming to Cornwall for years but only just stumbled upon the company. Cannot recommend the experience enough - the weather was perfect, the boat is lovely, Duncan and Sara couldn’t have made us feel more welcome (and had so much knowledge to share) AND we got to see seals and dolphins. We felt very lucky to have seen them. We went on board knowing that animal sightings can’t be guaranteed so this was a real highlight. Even if we hadn’t seen much wildlife, the boat ride and the sights would have still been great. Thanks again to Duncan and Sara

– Will F -TripAdvisor
Wonderful! 🐬

We took the 3hr trip in the morning and it was absolutely wonderful! The catamaran was very comfortable with room to move around if need be. It was quiet and peaceful, making it all the more enjoyable for everyone (including the wildlife). We were lucky enough to spot some Risso’s dolphin and grey seals. The guides were super knowledgeable about the area and animals and were constantly on the look out for signs of interesting wildlife. Couldn’t recommend this trip enough and we can’t wait to come back, I just wish I could give more than 5 stars!

– Chloe -TripAdvisor