On Sunday afternoon, passengers aboard an Oceanside Adventures boat were hoping to spot some whales while they enjoyed a cruise along the north San Diego coastline, but they found themselves in the middle of a dolphin stampede. This phenomenon happens when hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of common dolphins, begin swimming in the ocean at a high rate of speed in one direction and jumping in and out of water as they progress.
The dolphin stampede can happen at any time and without any apparent cause. It appears that the dolphins are enjoying themselves, almost like they are racing each other or the boats they encounter.