Sardinia isn’t just about stunning beaches and delicious cuisine; it’s also a fantastic place to see dolphins in their natural environment. These intelligent mammals are often spotted along the island’s coastlines, especially near Figarolo Island and Golfo Aranci. We love tours like the Dolphin Watching Tour with Snorkeling from Olbia, which combines marine wildlife encounters with the chance to snorkel in pristine waters. Watching dolphins leap and play is a highlight, but the real charm lies in the unspoiled coastline and clear waters Sardinia offers. Whether you’re on a boat, kayak, or even a SUP, there’s a tour suited for every adventurer.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of dolphin-focused experiences—from half-day boat trips and private charters to kayaking adventures with aperitifs. Some tours emphasize wildlife observation and snorkeling, like Golfo Aranci: Kayak tour with aperitif & dolphin sighting, while others focus on eco-sustainable dolphin spotting with Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling in Figarolo. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each experience, helping you pick the perfect trip to see Sardinia’s playful marine mammals.
1. Cagliari Boat Tour 4 Stops .Possible Sighting of Dolphins
This 3-hour 15-minute boat trip from Cagliari offers a balance of scenic stops and dolphin-spotting chances. The boat is fast and safe, allowing most of the time to be spent exploring coves and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The itinerary includes stops at Cala Bernat, Calamosca Beach, Cala Fighera, Poetto, and Sella del Diavolo. The tour is praised for its comfortable swimming platform and lively music, making it ideal for families and travelers wanting a relaxed yet engaging experience. Guests report enjoying the swimming stops and the fun stories told by the captain, with a perfect water temperature and beautiful scenery.
What sets this tour apart is its easy access to multiple coves and beaches with minimal time spent navigating. It’s best suited for those who want a short but scenic trip with the possibility of dolphin sightings. The price point ($69.51) offers good value for the time and variety of stops, especially with kids in tow.
Bottom Line: A highly rated, family-friendly option that balances swimming, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting.
2. Observation of Dolphins and Snorkeling in a rubber boat in Olbia
For around $69.51, this half-day rubber dinghy trip from Olbia is perfect if your main goal is to see dolphins and snorkel in less than 4 hours. The tour visits Figarolo Island, a prime location for bottlenosed dolphins, and includes snorkeling stops at Moresca Cove or Cala Moresca, with gear provided. The small, fast boat ensures a more intimate experience with the marine environment and plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, thanks to the guide’s local knowledge.
Guests consistently praise the well-organized nature of the trip and the enthusiasm of the guide Tito, who keeps everyone informed and entertained. The trip also includes snacks and drinks, making it a comfortable experience for all ages. The scenery on the water is stunning, with chances to see marine life both above and below the surface.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a quick, well-organized dolphin-watching and snorkeling adventure with a friendly guide.
3. Dolphin Watching Tour with Snorkeling from Olbia
This scenic 3.5-hour trip from Olbia combines wildlife observation with snorkeling stops. The tour skirts the coastlines of Capo Ceraso and Tavolara and includes visits to Spiaggia del Dottore and Figarolo Island. The trip is especially known for spotting bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Olbia, with a sighting probability of around 80%.
Guests love the combination of natural beauty and marine encounters, with plenty of time to swim and snorkel in clear waters. The guide shares interesting facts about local wildlife, enhancing the experience. The itinerary also includes snacks and drinks, making the trip both fun and relaxing. The boat is comfortable, and the scenery is breathtaking, especially during the stops at Figarolo.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine dolphin sightings with snorkeling in some of Sardinia’s most beautiful spots.
4. Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling in Figarolo in Sardinia
This 3.5-hour tour from Golfo Aranci emphasizes responsible dolphin watching while allowing time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The team is committed to environmental respect, making it ideal for eco-conscious travelers. The tour includes wild dolphin sightings around Figarolo, as well as stops at enchanting spots for snorkeling and swimming.
Guests often mention how professional and knowledgeable the guides are, sharing insights into marine life and the dolphins’ behavior. The tour is highly rated thanks to its small-group intimacy and respectful approach to wildlife. The value at $81.40 includes multiple opportunities for marine encounters and relaxing swims.
Bottom Line: Best suited for eco-minded travelers who want a sustainable, educational, and adventure-packed dolphin experience.
5. Golfo Aranci: Kayak tour with aperitif & dolphin sighting
For a more active experience, this small-group kayak tour offers dolphin sightings, scenic paddling, and a relaxing aperitif. With a maximum of 9 paddlers, the tour ensures personal attention. It starts from Golfo Aranci and takes you along the coast toward Cala Moresca and Figarolo.
The tour features a stop for snacks and drinks, often accompanied by dolphin sightings. Guests appreciate the guidance of multilingual guides and the quiet, natural ambiance of paddling in calm waters. The $56.89 price makes it a good value for active travelers looking for a combination of wildlife, exercise, and local flavors.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for those wanting an interactive, nature-focused experience with the bonus of a local aperitif.
6. Snorkeling Experience to discover the dolphin inside you!
This 2.5-hour snorkeling tour at only $46.10 is designed for those eager to observe marine species in a relaxed setting. With gear, wetsuits, and guides, you’ll explore caves and underwater formations along Sardinia’s coast, with the possibility of seeing dolphins if nature permits.
Guests loved how accessible and engaging this experience was, noting that no physical fitness level is required. The guide, Cinzia, speaks French and shares interesting facts about marine life, making the activity both educational and fun. It’s ideal for travelers who want a gentle, close-up look at underwater habitats.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners or families who want a relaxed, scenic snorkeling experience with a chance to see dolphins.
7. Dolphin Watching Boat Excursion to Figarolo Island from Olbia
This 3.5-hour small-group trip from Olbia combines snorkeling and dolphin watching in a lively, engaging setting. The boat is intimate, allowing close views of the coastline and marine mammals. Guests rave about seeing dolphins in their natural environment and enjoying snorkeling stops at key spots like Cala Moresca.
The guide is praised for being friendly and informative, making the trip more memorable. With traditional Sardinian snacks onboard, you’ll find it a great mix of wildlife viewing and leisure. At $68.50 per person, it offers excellent value for the multi-activity experience.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers who want a small-group, educational, and fun dolphin tour.
8. Dolphin-spotting SUP tour with Golfo Aranci aperitif
This 3-hour SUP experience combines paddleboarding, wildlife spotting, and a scenic aperitif. Led by experienced guides, the tour takes you along the coast of Golfo Aranci toward Figarolo and Cala Moresca. With a good chance of dolphin sightings, it’s perfect for active travelers.
Guests love the peaceful paddling in calm waters and the opportunity to meet marine wildlife face-to-face. The $71.15 price includes an informative guide and a relaxing break with local snacks. It’s ideal for paddlers wanting a mix of adventure and nature.
Bottom Line: Best for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a combination of sport, wildlife, and local flavors.
9. Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling in Figarolo
This 3.5-hour eco-focused tour in Golfo Aranci emphasizes marine conservation while offering snorkeling and dolphin sightings. Led by Adriana, the guide, you visit Cala Greca, Cala Moresca, and Figarolo. The tour has a high success rate (many reviews mention dolphins) and involves learning about marine ecosystems.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and respectful approach that makes dolphin sightings more likely. The $83.01 cost includes snorkeling gear and informative commentary. It’s a fantastic trip for environmentally conscious travelers.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an educational, responsible encounter with dolphins and marine life.
10. Capo Figari: Dolphin sighting from Olbia
Starting from Olbia’s Dream Yacht Club, this about 3.5-hour trip focuses on dolphin sightings near Capo Figari. The boat cruises slowly close to fish farms, where dolphins are attracted, increasing sighting odds. The trip is highly rated, with dolphins often swimming nearby.
The itinerary includes stops at Cala Moresca for snorkeling and Olbia lighthouse views. Guests note the personalized, relaxed pace and successful dolphin sightings. At $76.79, it offers a good balance of wildlife viewing and water activities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing, wildlife-centered trip with a high chance of dolphin encounters.
11. Boat Dolphins Safari and Snorkeling
Privately charter your own speedboat for a personalized dolphin and snorkeling adventure in Sardinia. The up to 8 people group allows for flexibility and exclusivity. The trip includes snorkeling and marine exploration, with the captain choosing the best spots to find dolphins and other marine life.
Guests highlight how secluded and intimate this experience feels, with personalized service that often results in dolphins swimming nearby. The cost of $451.16 reflects the private nature and tailored experience, making it perfect for special occasions or travelers seeking privacy.
Bottom Line: Best suited for private groups wanting a custom, luxury dolphin experience.
12. Dolphins Rib boat (up to 6 people) Private
This private rib boat allows up to six people to enjoy Sardinia’s coastlines in comfort. The skipper often takes you to the best dolphin spotting spots, with frequent sightings reported. Stops include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters.
Guests appreciate the personal attention and the flexibility of the itinerary. The $404.89 price is a good value for those seeking privacy and exclusivity in their marine adventure. It’s ideal for families or small groups looking for a custom experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples wanting a private, flexible dolphin tour.
13. Golfo Aranci Kayak tour with aperitif and dolphin watching
This 2.5-hour kayak trip highlights sea exploration, wildlife encounters, and local snacks. Led by local experts, it takes paddlers along the unspoiled coast of Golfo Aranci, with frequent dolphin sightings. The tour is suited for all skill levels and includes a brief paddling tutorial.
Guests love the peaceful paddling experience and the chance to see dolphins close up. At $66.21, it offers value for a small-group adventure in a less crowded setting.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers seeking an authentic, wildlife-rich experience on Sardinia’s coast.
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Watching Tour in Sardinia
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, preferred activity level, and interest in marine life. If you want a luxury private experience, the Dolphins Rib boat provides exclusivity. For a family-friendly, relaxed trip, the Cagliari Boat Tour offers multiple stops and a lively atmosphere. Budget travelers might prefer the snorkeling adventure or kayak tours, both providing great value.
Think about your fitness level and interest in active pursuits. Kayak and SUP tours are perfect for the energetic, while boat trips are better for those wanting a more relaxed experience. Also, check the best times for dolphin sightings, typically in the warmer months when marine activity is highest.
Booking early is sensible, especially in summer, to secure your spot and get the most out of Sardinia’s prime dolphin-watching season.
Final Thoughts
Sardinia offers a broad selection of dolphin-watching tours tailored to different preferences and budgets. For a family adventure, the Cagliari boat tour provides a fun, all-around experience. If you’re after wildlife and eco-awareness, the Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling in Figarolo is an excellent choice. For those who prefer an active outing, the SUP tour with dolphin sightings combines sport, scenery, and wildlife in one.
No matter your style, Sardinia’s waters are full of playful dolphins waiting to surprise you. Book early, choose the experience that fits your interests, and enjoy a memorable encounter with Sardinia’s marine life.
