The Sussex Dolphin Project is an independent organisation that protects dolphins in Sussex waters by carrying out research and raising awareness.
It has recently reported more sightings from volunteers and the public.
Thea Taylor, managing director at Sussex Dolphin Project, said: “There has been an increase in coastal sightings and we are seeing them closer to the coast than ever before.
“We have seen an increase in habitat restoration and dolphins are food focused, they go where the food is. As biodiversity increases we are going to see more and more.”
Among the sightings reported are species such as bottlenose dolphins and porpoises and there have been rare sightings of humpback and minke whales.
The group is calling for greater awareness and consideration for dolphins following “negative experiences” with boat operators.
It has created “Marine Mammal Interaction Guidelines” for water users to ensure dolphins are protected.
The guidelines advise people in boats to slow down to a “no-wake” speed of six knots, give them plenty of space, reduce engine and sonar noise and stay on one side of the animals.
Thea said: “We want to teach people that we have really cool marine life in Sussex and it is worth looking after.”
To bring people closer to the creatures, Sussex Dolphin Project offers boat tours along the coast.
This summer, it is launching a new sailing tour to encourage the public to get involved.
Thea said: “We’re keen to run trips with as low a carbon footprint as possible. It will be a half-day trip along the coastline and people can get involved in the sailing as well. We did a trial on the water last week and it was absolutely beautiful.”
The group relies on its land watch volunteers to spot the marine creatures and wants more people to be on the look-out.
Thea said: “We encourage members of the public when they see them to report on our website.
“We have land watch volunteers from Worthing down to Newhaven but we are looking for more people to get involved.”
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