Introduction to Dolphins & Cooperative Fishing (1-Day Tour)
Our Introduction 1-Day Tour is a full-day boat excursion in the southern part of the Ayeyawaddy Dolphin Protected Area in search of dolphins. The trip includes an introduction to dolphins and the tradition of cooperative fishing, where local fishermen demonstrate how they communicate and fish together with dolphins. The program includes a visit to a fishing village where you will enjoy lunch prepared by the community and learn about their life along the Ayeyawaddy River. The tour starts and ends in Mandalay, with a short, optional visit to Mingun Stupa on the way back.
$125pp (groups of 3-4 adults)
- Groups of 2 adults (minimum): $145pp (pay $125pp on booking + $20pp later if no one joins your group)
- Groups of 5-10 adults: $110pp
- Private tour 1-4 adults: $110 per group / 5-10 adults: free
- Children ages 6-12: $50pp. Infants 0-5: free
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Roundtrip on the Living Irrawaddy Boat
- Fishermen’s boat to see dolphins & cooperative fishing demonstration
- Dolphin conservation fund ($5)
- Lunch prepared by the community
- Water, tea and fruit on the boat
- Pick up/drop off at hotel/guesthouse
- Entrance to Mingun Stupa
Excluded
- Drinks (soda, beer, wine) – available on the boat for extra charge
Things to Bring
- Hat and sunscreen
- Shirt that covers your shoulders (for sun & temples)
- Light jacket
- Camera, binoculars
- Money for handicrafts, drinks and tips
Itinerary
Day 1
07:30 Pick up at your hotel by our guide.
07:45 Arrive at Mandalay Jetty and board the Living Irrawaddy Boat. Briefing on safety & itinerary.
08:00 Boat departs Mandalay.
09:00 Visit Sin Kyun Community and learn about bamboo hat making.
10:00 Depart for Sein Pa Kone Community.
12:00 Lunch in Sein Pa Kone, Mya Zun or Aye Kyun (depending on location of dolphins). Introduction to dolphins & cooperative fishing presented and demonstrated by local fishermen.
14:00 Depart for the village. Continue to look for dolphins along the way.
16:00 Optional: Visit Mingun stupa (depending on time and interest)
17:30 Return to Mandalay Jetty.
Subject to change according to dolphin locations and weather conditions.
Cancellation, Refunds & Changes
Cancellations & Refunds
- 7 days or more before departure – Full refund less bank transfer fees
- 2 to 6 days before departure – 50% refund
- 48 hours before the tour starts – No refund
Date Changes
- 2 or more days before departure – No fee
- 48 hours before departure – 25% service fee
Important Information (Please read before your trip)
Cultural Do’s & Don’ts
Before your trip, please take the time to learn about important cultural Do’s & Don’ts for Myanmar: https://www.dosanddontsfortourists.com/
Policy Against Exploitation of Children
- We do not have school visits or volunteering with children during our tours.
- We ask that if guests would like to help students in the village or at the monastery that donations be made to the head teacher or the head monk.
- Please take a short moment to read the 7 tips for travelers by Child Safe
Health & Safety
- The tour involves boat travel. Please inform our guides if you cannot swim before the tour.
- Please wear life jackets at all times if you cannot swim. Please wear life jackets while riding small fishing boats.
- Please do not lean on railings on the Living Irrawaddy Dolphin Boat. Please do not dive off the boat, as water levels can be quite shallow. Please walk carefully on the boat; no running please.
- When getting on and off the boat, please hold on to the rail held by the staff. Please wait for staff to provide the railing before attempting to get on or off the boat.
- Please wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the heat.
- Please drink water to stay hydrated. Drinking water and reusable water bottles are available on the boat. Do not drink from the sink in the bathroom or from the wash basin in the village.
- Please wash your hands before eating.