Dolphins are often seen swimming in front of boats, and there are various explanations for this behavior. According to the book “Encyclopaedia of Marine Mammals” by Bernd Würsig, dolphins have been swimming in front of ships since the time of fast ships appearing on the ocean. This behavior was even documented by the Greeks in the Mediterranean Sea. In modern times, this behavior is referred to as bow riding, where dolphins take advantage of pressure waves that form in front of boats.

The bottlenose dolphin is particularly known for riding waves in front of ships and is commonly seen on dolphin-watching tours or boat observation trips. A study conducted by Elizabeth Hawkins and her colleagues at Dolphin Research Australia found that dolphins often interact with boats by riding waves in front of them. This behavior is believed to help dolphins reduce energy consumption while swimming and may also serve as a source of enjoyment.

Research presented at the 28th Annual Meeting of the European Marine Mammal Association in 2014 found that the location of the sea area can influence dolphin activity levels and wave riding behavior in front of ships. For example, dolphins in the Istanbul Strait were observed to ride waves more often at the southern entrance, likely due to better fishing opportunities in that area.

In addition to riding waves in front of ships, dolphins have also been observed riding waves in front of basking sharks. While this behavior could serve as a mutually beneficial foraging strategy, researchers believe that the dolphins are more likely engaging in this behavior for entertainment purposes. Overall, dolphins may ride waves in front of ships for various reasons, including gaining energy benefits, accessing feeding grounds, and having fun. Dolphins are known to be intelligent, social, and curious creatures, and they may engage in this behavior for entertainment as well.