Dolphin & Whale Watching
Flights      Hotels      Car Hire   Tours        

Dolphin & Whale Watching

The river Tejo (Tagus) is Portugal's largest and it widens in Lisbon before emptying into the Atlantic. Over the centuries this geological feature has brought trade and industry to the region. Recent initiatives to reduce pollution have brought sholes of fish back into the bay which in turn has attracted sea mammals (as well as making local fishermen happy). Only a decade ago if you wanted to go dolphin or whale watching you would have to travel an hour south to the Sétubal and the Sado estuary. Today Lisbon is the only European capital with wild dolphins and a boat trip on the Tejo to catch a glimpse of our wet friends has become an essential day out when visiting Lisbon.

Groups of dolphins enter the Tejo estuary when at high tide, hunt for shoals of mackerel and sardines, and eat their fill. Whilst waiting for the next high tide to return to the open ocean they like to play and socialise. The perfect time to observe these magnificent animals. A large number of tour companies have started up recently and it's our goal at www.madaboutlisbon.com to suggest the best. We aim to favour those tours where the marine animals are respected and not chased. When left to their own devices curious dolphins will investigate and swim along a non-threatening vessel. Although catching sight of dolphins or whales can not be guaranteed, beautiful perspectives of Lisbon are a certainty. It is thought there are nine species of marine mammals visiting Lisbon; Common Dolphin, Striped Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, Risso's Dolphin, Killer Whales, Harbour porpoise, Minke Whale, Fin Whale and Humpback Whale.

TOP DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING TOURS IN LISBON

Dolphin Watching with Marine Biologist

Dolphin Watching with Marine Biologist

Depart from Lisbon's city centre on a fast rigid inflatable boat. The crew and marine biologist will make sure you have a safety briefing and debrief of the activity so you can enjoy the most of it. Once arriving at the ocean, get to know the wildlife more closely and learn about the species of dolphins and seabirds. Spend up to three hours venturing in the ocean to watch for dolphins and find other marine life; sharks, jellyfish, and sea-turtles. The more species we find, the more exciting the activity will be. We always make sure the safety and comfortable ocean conditions are met so you can enjoy the experience. Before heading back, you will see the beautiful monuments seen from the river, Monuments for the Discoveries, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Tower of Belém.

Check Availability

Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Dolphin Watching Boat Tour

Admire wild dolphins in their natural habitat on a journey around Lisbon's coast aboard a speedboat with a marine biologist and a captain. Relax and enjoy stunning views of Lisbon's main monuments, the Estoril Coast, and Cascais from the Tagus River, all while keeping an eye out for playful dolphins.

Admire the magnificent views while learning about these incredible marine mammals, and how teams in Portugal are preserving their natural habitat.

Ask your marine biologist questions about dolphins and marine life throughout the journey. Enjoy a tour approved by the Official Oceanarium of Lisbon (Oceanário de Lisboa).


Check Availability

DOLPHIN LOVERS FULL DAY TOUR

DOLPHIN LOVERS FULL DAY TOUR

After picking you up at Lisbon we drive to Azeitão. There we visit a centennial Wine Cellar, an expert guide will give us an explanation about the making of table and fortified wines. Then a deluxe tasting will follow, with several specialties being poured for your delight. We continue our drive through Arrábida mountain, enjoying fabulous ocean views. We arrive at delightful Setúbal and enjoy a typical Portuguese lunch in a city best known for its fresh fish, the most well know recipe being the fried cuttlefish.

After lunch we continue our premium day with a boat cruise on river Sado, just near the Atlantic Ocean, scouting for a resident family of bottlenose dolphins, and enjoying cool breezes and landscapes. We will also enjoy the fabulous Troia peninsula, one of the most exclusive holiday resorts in Portugal, before returning to Lisbon.

Check Availability

ARRÂBIDA COAST (COSTA AZUL)

Where the Arrábida Natural park meets the sea, one can find a series of unspoiled beaches, most of which have Blue Flag status. Often marketed as Portugal's Dream Coast or Costa Azul, this dramatic and beautiful coastline offers white sands, clear waters and stunning views. The Costa Azul south of Lisbon is becoming one of the most talked-about tourist regions in Portugal. The Costa Azul attracts visitors who not only seek a slower pace of life but also draws those searching for an authentic Portuguese experience.

TOP WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING TOURS IN ARRÂBIDA

Dolphin Watching and Boat Tour in Sesimbra

Dolphin Watching and Boat Tour in Sesimbra

Embark on an unforgettable dolphin-watching tour from Sesimbra and experience the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. Join expert biologists as you search for playful pods of bottlenose and common dolphins while admiring the stunning Arrábida Mountains. Snap captivating photos and explore a protected marine area. Dive into the turquoise waters of a secluded bay, where you can swim and snorkel with provided masks. Enjoy the chance to observe dolphins in their natural habitats and immerse yourself in the coastal scenery on this memorable adventure.


Check Availability

Dolphin Watching and Tour in the Arrábida Natural Park

Dolphin Watching and Tour in the Arrábida Natural Park

Venture on a dolphin watching tour from Sesimbra's port of Abrigo, searching for dolphins in their natural habitat. Spot Bottlenose and Common Dolphins in the pristine waters of the Arrábida Natural Park while accompanied by a marine biologist who shares fascinating facts about these marine mammals. Marvel at diverse wildlife and bird species during the tour. After observing dolphins, swim and sunbathe on one of Portugal's most beautiful, secluded beaches or bays. Explore caves and rock formations along the coast and learn about the region's intriguing 18th-century history from your local guide.

Check Availability

Dolphin Watching and Boat Tour in Sesimbra

Dolphin Watching and Boat Tour in Sesimbra

Embark on a dolphin-watching tour from Sesimbra and journey into the Atlantic Ocean. With experienced biologists, spot pods of bottlenose and common dolphins against the stunning backdrop of the Arrábida Mountains. Capture incredible photos of playful dolphins and swim in the turquoise waters of a secluded bay. Explore the protected marine area, observing dolphins in their natural habitats. Snorkel masks are provided for a chance to swim and snorkel in pristine, secluded waters. This adventure combines the excitement of wildlife viewing with the serenity of coastal exploration.

Check Availability