Olbia: Dolphin watching and snorkeling tour on Figarolo Island

Key Points

• Duration: The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, providing a compact yet fulfilling experience.
• Departure Point: Starts at Molo Bosazza in Olbia, with easy access and free parking.
• Main Activities: Includes dolphin sightings, snorkeling in pristine coves, and relaxing on board with refreshments.
• Boat Details: Uses a 9.15-meter BWA 308 GTO inflatable boat, accommodating up to 12 guests comfortably.
• Wildlife Encounters: Focuses on spotting bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, with sightings depending on animal behavior and location.
• Highlights for Families and Friends: Perfect for those seeking a relaxing, nature-focused outing with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

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Olbia: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Tour on Figarolo Island

This 2.5-hour adventure departs from Molo Bosazza in Olbia, Sardinia. The tour is operated by MARI Sea Charters di Ivan Rasenti, featuring a compact yet comfortable inflatable boat that can carry up to 20 people, though groups are kept smaller for a more intimate experience. Priced with flexible reservation options, you can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

The experience centers on spotting bottlenose dolphins near Figarolo Island, combined with crystal-clear snorkeling spots and a chance to unwind with cold drinks on the boat. The route includes a 25-minute crossing from Olbia towards the island, with the chance to observe dolphins either inside the fish farming area or out in the open sea. The tour’s success in dolphin sightings hinges on animal activity and the presence of boats around the fish farms, which can sometimes influence dolphin behavior.

From Olbia to Figarolo: Navigating the Sardinian Coast

Starting at Molo Bosazza, the boat sets out along the calm waters of Olbia’s port, heading toward Figarolo Island. The crossing takes approximately 25 minutes, providing a scenic introduction to Sardinia’s coastline. The boat’s design allows for small groups of no more than 12 guests, ensuring space for everyone to enjoy the ride comfortably.

The journey offers visual delights of Sardinia’s coast, with its vibrant, colorful waters. The smooth ride and the chance to relax on deck make this part of the experience equally enjoyable, especially with a refreshing drink in hand. The focus remains on wildlife observation and snorkeling, so the pace is relaxed yet engaging.

Dolphin sightings: Inside the fish farming area or open sea

Dolphin sightings are the core of this tour, with two main scenarios. Sometimes, the dolphins are inside the fish farming area in front of Figarolo, busy foraging and more difficult to approach due to the marked buoys. From a distance, you’ll likely see them from the boat, watching their activity from afar.

In other cases, the dolphins are outside the tanks, swimming freely in the open sea. Here, the guides aim to get closer while respecting the animals’ natural behavior. This setting offers the rare chance to see dolphins up close and observe their movements within their habitat. It’s important to understand that sightings depend on the dolphins’ willingness to appear, though the chances are high.

Snorkeling in the pristine coves of Figarolo Island

The tour includes multiple stops at beautiful coves around Figarolo Island. These locations showcase crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The guides lead you into these serene spots, where you can dive into the water and discover colorful fish and marine life.

Snorkelers should be prepared for calm, inviting waters, with ample time to relax and explore. The stops are designed to maximize your marine encounters and provide a refreshing break from the boat ride.

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Onboard comfort and refreshments

Throughout the tour, you can chill out on deck with a cold drink provided on board. The boat’s comfortable setup ensures guests can relax while enjoying the scenic views and wildlife activity. The small group sizes foster a more personal atmosphere, making it easier to chat with the guides or fellow travelers.

The tour emphasizes a respectful approach to marine animals, maintaining a safe and responsible distance during dolphin sightings. The experienced skippers lead the way, ensuring smooth navigation and safety for all onboard.

Meeting point and logistical details

The tour begins at Molo Bosazza, which is just a short walk from the center of Olbia. The staff will be wearing blue shirts with the MARI Sea Charters logo, making them easy to spot. The location’s coordinates (40.921573638916016, 9.50444507598877) help guests find the meeting point easily. Guests benefit from free parking nearby, simplifying access.

The tour is designed to be family-friendly but is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness. It’s also important to bring passport or ID for children and to avoid bringing pets, large bags, or sharp objects onboard.

The guide and overall experience quality

The live guides deliver explanations in Italian and English, ensuring guests understand all aspects of the marine environment and wildlife behavior. Reviews consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides, with some mentioning skippers who are attentive and engaging.

While the main focus is on dolphin sightings, the tour also offers plenty of time for relaxing in the beautiful Sardinian waters. Guests appreciate the well-organized stops and the ease of snorkeling at different coves. The overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 60 reviews reflects strong satisfaction, with many noting the beautiful scenery and good chance of dolphin sightings.

Who will love this tour?

This activity suits families, friends, and nature lovers looking for a relaxed, nature-oriented outing. It’s ideal for those who enjoy snorkeling and want to see dolphins in their natural habitat. The short duration and small group size make it accessible for a wide range of travelers, though it’s less suitable for people with mobility issues or seasickness.

Final thoughts on the Sardinian dolphin tour

The Olbia dolphin watching and snorkeling tour provides a compact, well-organized experience of Sardinia’s marine life and scenic coastline. Its key strengths are the expert skippers, the opportunity to see dolphins close to their natural environment, and the beautiful snorkeling stops.

While sightings are dependent on animal activity and weather conditions, the high likelihood of dolphin encounters enhances its appeal. The small boat size ensures a more intimate and comfortable experience, making it suitable for those seeking a relaxed and family-friendly adventure.

In all, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, water activities, and scenic relaxation—a worthwhile choice for anyone visiting Olbia who wants to connect with the marine environment of Sardinia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including boat ride, dolphin watching, snorkeling, and stops.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Molo Bosazza in Olbia, with convenient access and free parking.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, there are stops at coves suitable for snorkeling, allowing guests to explore the marine life in Sardinia’s clear waters.

Can I see dolphins during the tour?
Dolphin sightings depend on animal activity and location. There is a high chance, but sightings are not guaranteed, as the dolphins are wild animals.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but not recommended for people with mobility issues or seasickness. Please bring passport or ID for children.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunscreen, towels, and appropriate swimwear for snorkeling and swimming.

Is the tour private or shared?
The tour is shared, with small groups of up to 12 guests for a more personal experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility.

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