Amazing dolphin sighting for sailors returning from Anglesey

North Wales Chronicle

a day ago

Sailors from Dee Sailing Club were on their way back from their annual Solstice Cruise to Anglesey aboard Wild Magic when they were treated to the special moment in waters near Penrhyn Bay and off Llandudno.
Footage of the encounter was captured aboard Wild Magic and shared with our titles by Dan Knight from Dee Sailing Club.
Mr Knight said: "Before reaching Llandudno, aboard Wild Magic, we had spotted a single dolphin in the distance - a lovely sight, though not unusual in these waters.
"Later, at around 4pm, about two miles off Penrhyn Bay, a much larger pod of around 15 dolphins appeared and began swimming and playing alongside the boats.
The trip was part of the club's annual Solstice Cruise and took in waters off Llandudno (Image: Dan Knight / Dee Sailing Club) He said dolphin sightings aren't uncommon on the North Wales coast, but the scale and duration of this encounter made it something truly memorable.
"Usually, you might get a few joining for a few minutes, especially once the engine is off and you're under sail," he said.
"This time it was a large pod – around 15 dolphins. They were leaping and playing in every direction you looked. They stayed with us for about 30 minutes.
"There's something really special about moving along under wind power alone and when wildlife like this appears, it takes the experience to a whole new level.
"As we slowed to take it all in, a few of the other boats gathered nearby and you could see everyone completely focused on the dolphins, just watching in awe.
"It was one of those rare shared moments where time stands still and the magic of being on the water really hits home.
"I don't think it matters whether it's your first time or your hundredth seeing dolphins in UK waters, it's one of those moments you just have to stop and take in the beauty of nature."
The pod of dolphins were playing alongside the boat (Image screengrab - Dee Sailing Club). Mr Knight has been part of the club for about a year.
Talking about the highlight annual trip, he said: "The Solstice Cruise is all about bringing as many of our fleet together as possible for a week of sailing, beautiful scenery, and shared adventure between experienced sailors and those heading out on their first long-distance trip. Anglesey tends to be our favourite Solstice cruise as it is open to a range of abilities."
The group set sail on Friday, June 20, returning on Wednesday, June 25 - a slightly shortened journey due to approaching poor weather. Despite high winds limiting their sailing time, the group made the most of their time ashore.
He said: "We anchored in Red Wharf Bay and spent our time exploring Anglesey on foot and by bus, enjoying meals together, walking into local towns, beach BBQs and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a great chance to slow down, share stories, and build friendships even if the sails had to stay stowed. We were warmly welcomed by Traeth Coch Sailing Club, which was a lovely chance for two sailing communities to connect and share their passion."
In total, 12 boats joined the cruise, with a mix of experienced and newer sailors.
Many crews rotated throughout the week, and while some had to return early, the camaraderie remained strong.
"It was a strong turnout and a great atmosphere throughout," Mr Knight said.
"On the return trip, we anchored off Llandudno to stretch our legs and grab some food while we waited for the tide to turn, allowing us to cross the sandbanks in the Dee Estuary later that evening."
Mr Knight sailed aboard his own boat, which he purchased last year and spent the winter renovating. He was joined on this trip by Cruiser Fleet Captain, Andy Rainford.
He said: "He's seen dolphins before, but said that both the size of the pod and how long they stayed with us was something new even in his five years of sailing."