3.2.2  Evaluation of the cSAC for public use, access, education and interpretation

Bottlenose dolphins are attractive and gregarious animals. They draw considerable interest both from locals, tourists and education establishments.

Bottlenose dolphins are frequently visible at close range from the shore at several accessible locations within the site. Access by boat can be achieved during the summer months where dolphins might be viewed during one of the numerous wildlife cruises which work out of New Quay and Aberaeron. A marine wildlife interpretation centre exists in New Quay which focuses on cetaceans and will soon have live transmission of underwater dolphin vocalisations. The aquarium in Aberaeron contains displays about the bottlenose dolphins.

There is considerable potential for the site to provide an important and successful education resource both for education establishments and the general public. However, there is the potential for such use, through increased disturbance, to adversely affect the condition of the bay’s bottlenose dolphins. Therefore, use of the site for education and interpretation will need to be carefully managed. Demonstrably good management will further enhance the site’s educational value.