Olbia: Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Tour near Figarolo

Key Points

• Duration: 3.5-hour small-group boat tour departing from Olbia’s Moys Marina
• Highlights: Wild dolphin sightings, snorkeling among colorful fish, exploring limestone caves, and viewing cliffs near Figarolo
• Comfort & Capacity: Latest-generation inflatable boat, limited to groups of no more than 10 people for a personalized experience
• Food & Drink: Enjoy a Sardinian aperitif with local mini pizzas, snacks, water, beer, or tea
• Expert Guides: Guides with extensive sea experience lead you through scenic spots, share local insights, and help maximize sightings
• Recommended for: Families, friends, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a relaxed yet adventure-filled half-day on Sardinian waters

You can check availability for your dates here:

Olbia: Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Tour near Figarolo

The Olbia Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Tour by Oltremare Charter offers a captivating 3.5-hour experience in Sardinia’s emerald seas. Starting from Moys Marina in Olbia, this tour is notable for its high 4.9 rating from 668 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction. The tour is perfect for those who want to see wild bottlenose dolphins, snorkel among vibrant fish, and explore the coastline’s caves and cliffs with an expert guide. The small-group format, limited to 10 participants, ensures a personal touch and plenty of attention from guides, making it especially suitable for families and friends.

Priced at a competitive rate, this experience includes not only dolphin sightings and snorkeling but also a tasty Sardinian aperitif featuring local mini pizzas and snacks. The 3.5-hour duration balances adventure and relaxation, allowing ample time for each activity without feeling rushed. A key advantage is the high probability (around 80%) of seeing dolphins, thanks to the guides’ experience and knowledge of dolphin hotspots. The tour departs from a 5-star port with free parking, simplifying logistics for travelers.

Meeting Point at Moys Marina in Olbia

The tour begins at BlueSea Charter, with guests meeting near the sailing flag inscribed Bluesea Charte at berth number 44. The guide wears a white T-shirt for easy identification, and the exact coordinates are 40.91535568237305, 9.523658752441406. Arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled departure ensures smooth boarding, as late arrivals cannot join without a refund. The meeting point’s central location and free parking make it straightforward to start the trip comfortably.

The Modern Inflatable Boat: Comfort and Safety

Travelers hop aboard a state-of-the-art inflatable boat measuring 8.50 meters with a 250-horsepower Honda engine. This vessel offers modern comforts that enhance the experience, including stability and space for all participants. The boat’s design allows easy access for snorkeling and sightseeing, and its speed ensures efficient travel between scenic spots. The small group size, capped at 10, guarantees that everyone gets a good view and personal attention from the experienced captain.

Searching for Wild Dolphins in Figarolo Bay

The core activity is dolphin watching in their natural habitat, with a roughly 80% chance of sightings. The boat navigates near Figarolo Island, a fertile area for wild bottlenose dolphins. The guides are skilled at locating pods, often checking multiple spots to increase chances of sightings. Watching dolphins leap and play in open water is a highlight, often during relaxed cruising along the coast.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkeling at Prime Spots with Colorful Fish

Several snorkeling stops are built into the itinerary, offering chances to swim among vibrant fish and starfish. The most popular spots feature crystal-clear water and rich seabed life. The tour guides select locations like Cala Moresca and other scenic coves, promising peaceful swimming in a natural setting. Snorkeling is accessible to all, with a focus on fun and safety, making it suitable for beginners and experienced swimmers alike.

Exploring Limestone Caves and Cliffs near Figarolo

A notable part of the trip involves discovering limestone caves and cliffs along Sardinia’s coast. These geological formations are spectacular and perfect for photos. The guide shares insights into the landscape’s features, and the boat’s proximity allows close-up views. The caves and cliffs are also home to wild birds, adding to the area’s natural charm.

Food and Refreshments: Sardinian Flavors on Board

A key treat is the authentic Sardinian aperitif, which includes local mini pizzas and snacks. Guests can choose from water, tea, fruit juices, or Sardinian beer as they relax on deck. The informal, convivial atmosphere enhances the overall experience, enabling everyone to enjoy local flavors amid beautiful scenery. The food is often highlighted as a favorite part of the trip, adding a cultural touch to the adventure.

The Itinerary Detailed: Stops and Highlights

The tour’s itinerary is carefully planned to showcase Sardinia’s diverse coastlines and wildlife.
– Isola di Figarolo: The first stop involves guided tours, swimming, and snorkeling, giving everyone a chance to explore the marine environment for about an hour.
– Scogliera Di Capo Figari: Next, a boat cruise takes travelers to spot dolphins and enjoy the breathtaking views of the cliffs.
– Cala Moresca: The third stop combines break time, snorkeling, and swimming with local snacks and drinks.
– Isola della Bocca: A guided tour here features more scenic cruising, with an emphasis on spotting wildlife and admiring the coast.
– Yacht Stop: A brief 15-minute visit allows for a photo opportunity or a quick rest before returning to Moys Marina.

Each stop offers a blend of sightseeing, wildlife watching, and leisure, making the trip varied and engaging.

The Experience from the Captain’s Perspective

Captain Giovanni and other guides with 30 years of sea experience lead the tour, sharing local insights and ensuring safety and comfort. Their knowledge and attentiveness shine through, as they track dolphin pods, explain geological formations, and accommodate guest needs, including musical preferences during cruising. Many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness, professionalism, and their ability to maximize dolphin sightings, which are often the trip’s highlight.

Suitability and Practical Tips for Participants

This tour is suitable for most people, with some considerations. It is not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility or heart issues, epilepsy, or those over 287 lbs (130 kg). The rougher ride on the fast boat may be less comfortable for seasick prone travelers. Sun protection is essential—bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel. Guests should also arrive 15 minutes early to ensure boarding, and large luggage or pets are not permitted onboard.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Sardinia

What makes this dolphin-watching and snorkeling experience special is the combination of wildlife sightings, geological exploration, and local flavor in a small, intimate group. The expert guides and well-maintained boat create a relaxed, educational environment. The regular sightings of dolphins, coupled with spectacular scenery, make this tour a memorable half-day adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Olbia Dolphin & Snorkeling Tour

This 3.5-hour trip provides an excellent balance of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, especially highlighting the knowledgeable guides and beautiful snorkeling spots. The local aperitif and small-group size add a warm, personal touch that elevates the experience.

While it’s not suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain health issues or seeking a very gentle ride, most travelers will find this tour enthralling and rewarding. It is a great choice for families, friends, or anyone eager to see Sardinia’s marine life and coastal landscapes in a relaxed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, providing enough time for dolphin sightings, snorkeling, and scenic stops.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Moys Marina in Olbia, at BlueSea Charter near berth number 44.

What is the chance of seeing dolphins?
There is an approximately 80% probability of spotting wild bottlenose dolphins during the trip.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring sunglasses, towels, sunscreen, beachwear, and passport or ID. Large bags or pets are not allowed.

Is food included?
Yes, guests enjoy a Sardinian aperitif with local mini pizzas, snacks, and drinks like water, tea, fruit juices, or Sardinian beer.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages, but people with mobility issues or pregnant women are advised not to join.

What kind of boat is used?
A modern inflatable boat measuring 8.50 meters with a 250-horsepower Honda engine provides a safe and comfortable ride.

How do I book and pay?
Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and it’s possible to reserve now and pay later.

Are guides English-speaking?
Yes, the live tour guide speaks English, sharing insights and answering questions throughout the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
While the data does not specify, snorkeling stops are included, and the focus is on swimming among colorful fish in crystal-clear waters. It is advisable to bring your own gear if preferred.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby