Benalmádena: Sailing & Dolphin Watching with Snacks/Drinks

If you’re looking to spend a couple of hours soaking up the sun, gazing at dolphins, and enjoying the sea breeze, this Benalmádena sailing tour could be a lovely choice. It’s a short, friendly experience that offers a nice balance of adventure and relaxation, especially if you’re into marine life or just want a scenic escape from the bustling coast.

What sets this tour apart? First, the chance to spot wild dolphins swimming close to the boat is genuinely magical—something we’ve seen many travelers rave about. Second, the option to stop for swimming, snorkeling, or paddle boarding in calm waters makes this more than just a cruise; it’s an active, engaging outing.

A potential downside? Since it’s a relatively short trip—just two hours—you might find it a bit limited if you’re craving a full day at sea or more in-depth exploration. Still, for a quick and memorable outing, it hits the right notes.

This experience is well-suited for anyone craving a peaceful sea adventure, families with kids who enjoy marine life, or groups wanting a cozy, manageable boat trip that doesn’t skimp on atmosphere or comfort.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between a private or shared tour based on your preference and group size.
• Dolphin sightings: Commonly seen, adding a truly special touch to the trip.
• Water activities: Stop for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding—perfect for active travelers.
• Comfortable boat: Spacious, modern, with shaded areas, sunbathing nets, and onboard amenities.
• Friendly crew: Attentive staff who take care of every detail, enhancing the relaxed vibe.
• Affordable: At $53 per person, it offers good value for a memorable sea experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

When you arrive at Puerto Deportivo Benalmádena, the meeting point is straightforward—next to the well-marked Amarre 468. We recommend arriving about 10 minutes early so you’re ready to set sail on time. Once aboard the catamaran, the crew greets you warmly, offering a quick briefing on safety, the route, and what’s available on board.

The boat itself is a modern, fully equipped vessel that comfortably accommodates up to 12 people. Whether you opt for a shared or private tour, you’ll find shaded areas for lounging, a sunbathing net at the front, a cozy lounge, and a bathroom for convenience. The deck space is ideal for soaking in views, taking photos, or just relaxing under the sun.

The Route and Scenery

As the boat pulls out of the port, you’ll leave behind the lively marina and glide into the open Mediterranean Sea. The crew’s calm and friendly demeanor helps you settle into the experience quickly. The highlights of the journey include spectacular vistas of the Costa del Sol, with its mix of golden beaches, mountain silhouettes, and whitewashed villages perched on cliffs.

One of the best parts? The dolphin sightings. Many reviews mention how common and exciting it is to see these playful creatures bouncing near the boat. As one traveler put it, “We even saw dolphins :)” — a reminder of how this adds a special layer to the trip.

Water Stop and Activities

After about an hour of sailing, weather permitting, the boat stops in calm waters for a swim. The boat provides snorkel gear and paddleboards, so you can explore the underwater world or float around lazily. If you prefer just relaxing, you can sunbathe on the boat’s red bow or enjoy a cold drink.

Speaking of drinks, the tour includes a bottle of cava, water, or beer, which you can sip as you float or unwind. Want more? You can bring your own food or even opt for customized catering, which makes for a relaxed, picnic-style experience on the water. Many reviews highlight how the crew is attentive and accommodating, making the meal or drinks feel special.

The Return

After a delightful couple of hours, the boat heads back to the port, with the coastline gradually coming into view. The entire trip is short but packed with moments of joy—whether it’s spotting dolphins, enjoying the scenery, or simply soaking in the sun.

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The Value and What Travelers Say

At $53 per person, this tour offers a great balance of affordable luxury and memorable experiences. The boat and crew are often praised in reviews; “The catamaran was very comfortable and spacious,” said one traveler, adding that the staff was “super attentive and helpful.” This kind of attentive service can make a big difference in how relaxed you feel during the trip.

Some reviews mention that dolphin sightings are common, which is a highlight for many. As one person put it, “We saw lots of dolphins up close,” adding that it made the experience unforgettable. However, a few travelers noted that dolphins are wild animals, so sightings aren’t guaranteed every trip. If you’re lucky, you’ll be among the groups that get to see a large pod, making the trip even more special.

The boat’s amenities, including Bluetooth connection, shaded areas, and sunbathing nets, also get positive comments, emphasizing the comfort and modernity of the vessel. The ability to bring your own food or arrange catering adds a personal touch, making it feel less like a tour and more like a day out with friends or family.

What Could Be Better?

While this tour is highly rated and offers a lot of value, some might find the duration limiting, especially if they want a longer day at sea or more stops. Also, since it is weather-dependent, cancellations can happen, which can be disappointing if you’ve traveled a long way. It’s worth checking the weather forecast before booking.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This sailing adventure is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic escape with a touch of wildlife excitement. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want an intimate experience without feeling crowded. If dolphins are your bucket list animal, or you’re just looking to enjoy an easygoing day on the water, this is a good pick.

People who enjoy water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding will appreciate the included equipment and the chance to explore the sea. It’s also suited for travelers who value friendly, professional crew service and a reasonable price point.

However, if you’re after a longer cruise or want to explore more remote spots, you might find the two-hour window a bit brief. Wheelchair users should note that the tour isn’t suitable for them, as is often the case with boat trips that require certain accessibility features.

Final Thoughts

This Benalmádena sailing tour offers a simple yet memorable way to experience the Costa del Sol from the water. Its combination of dolphin sightings, water activities, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a worthwhile choice for a quick escape. The balance of modern comfort, friendly service, and stunning scenery makes it appealing for travelers wanting a taste of the sea without overextending.

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced, friendly, and nature-focused experience with the possibility of dolphin encounters, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s well-suited for those who value comfort, good company, and a touch of adventure in a manageable timeframe.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they enjoy marine life and water activities. Just keep in mind the tour isn’t specifically designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring with me?
Towels, weather-appropriate clothing, and sun protection are recommended. Towels are not included, and it’s good to have a hat or sunscreen.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food. You can also add customized catering if desired.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 2 hours, including sailing, dolphin watching, and swimming stops.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
No, dolphins are wild animals, so sightings depend on the day’s marine activity. Many travelers do see them, though.

What equipment is provided?
Snorkel gear, paddleboards, and a fishing rod are available for use during the stop.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What languages do the crew speak?
The crew speaks Spanish and English, making communication easy for most travelers.

In short, this boat tour strikes a good balance of fun, relaxation, and wildlife watching. It’s a great way to enjoy a slice of the Costa del Sol from the water, whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking to unwind.

You can check availability for your dates here: