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Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic compounds ubiquitous in the environment and known for their toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic effects. These compounds can bioaccumulate in the biota and be transferred through trophic webs. The franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei), as top predators, can be an environmental sentinels. Thus, this study aimed to provide data about PAHs concentration in their hepatic tissue collected on the coast of Espírito Santo (Franciscana Management Area, FMA Ia), Rio de Janeiro (FMA IIa), and São Paulo states (FMA IIb), in Southeastern Brazil. PAHs were detected in 86 % of franciscana dolphins (n = 50). The highest ∑PAHs Total median concentration was reported in FMA Ia followed by FMA IIb and FMA IIa (1055.6; 523.9, and 72.1 ng.g-1 lipid weight, respectively). Phenanthrene was detected in one fetus and two neonates, showing maternal transfer of PAHs in these dolphins. Evaluating PAHs with potential toxic effects is of utmost importance for the conservation of a threatened species. [Display omitted] • PAHs were detected in 86 % (43/50) of franciscana dolphins analyzed. • Naphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene, and pyrene were the most frequent compounds. • The potential carcinogenic benzo(a)pyrene was detected in 26 % (13/50) of franciscanas. • Maternal transfer of PAHs to one fetus and two neonates was evidenced. • Mutagenic and carcinogenic PAHs are another threat to a critically endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]