diff --git a/asciiquarium_ng.py b/asciiquarium_ng.py
index 643d52d..aceef4d 100755
--- a/asciiquarium_ng.py
+++ b/asciiquarium_ng.py
@@ -1174,8 +1174,13 @@ ygcgwwwww  ygcgwwwww  ygcgwwwww
         masks  = [mask] * 2
         base_x = -13 if going_right else self.cols - 2
 
-        # Three dolphins offset in their path cycle (offsets 0, 12, 24)
-        start_ys = [8, 2, 5]
+        # Three dolphins offset in their path cycle (offsets 0, 12, 24).
+        # start_ys are the y positions at path offsets 0, 12, 24.
+        # With amplitude ±7 and center y=10 the arc spans y=3 (above waves)
+        # to y=10 (just below waterline), crossing the surface in both phases.
+        # Cumulative dy: offset 0→0, offset 12→-6, offset 24→-3
+        # so start_ys = [10, 10-6, 10-3] = [10, 4, 7]
+        start_ys = [10, 4, 7]
         colors   = ['b', 'B', 'C']
         for i in range(3):
             is_lead = (i == 2)