This is a small dolphin that averages about 1.8 m in length and 75 kg in weight. It can be distinguished by its moderately short beak; tripartite colour pattern (white belly, light gray sides, dark cape that dips in two points - above the eye and below the dorsal fin); and distinctive facial markings (black eye ring, dark lips and snout tip, and dark line on top of snout, sometimes incorporating a "moustache" near the apex of the melon). The cape is sometimes obscured by blotchy patches on the sides and, occasionally, a faint spinal blaze may be present. The dorsal fin is gray but bordered with dark margins. Average total number of teeth is 200.