DOLPHIN WATCHING

Dolphin and Marine Life Experiences
If your dream is to observe wild dolphins in the wild, Ecomarine Algarve is the ideal partner — we know the territory, the marine life and the best observation spots. Our trips are always accompanied by local guides and marine biologists, ensuring scientific rigor, interpretation of nature and a real connection to the natural heritage of the region.
The coastal waters of the Ria Formosa, especially in the Faro area, constitute the natural habitat of several species of dolphins, such as the Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), the Common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and the Striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba). In addition to these species, you can also observe other forms of marine life, such as the Sunfish (Mola mola), flying fish of the family Exocoetidae, Marlins (family Istiophoridae) and Tuna (genus Thunnus, among others), as well as several seabirds, including the gannet (Morus bassanus), shearwaters such as Calonectris diomedea, Great skua ( Alca torda) and Storm-petrels, for example the square-tailed woodworm (Hydrobates pelagicus).
In certain seasons, it is also possible to observe Orcas (Orcinus orca) during their migratory passage along the Algarve coast, During the last years we also spotted False orcas (Pseudorca crassidens) .
At other times of the year, different species of Whales may also appear, such as the Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus), the Minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Bryde’s whale (Balaenoptera edeni), making each trip unique, unpredictable and scientifically enriching.
During all the experiences, we provide environmental education, raising awareness of the importance of conserving marine ecosystems and the Ria Formosa, making each activity fun, responsible and transformative.
- Departure – 8:30 am: Portas do Mar Pier – Faro(Check in 15 mins before)
- Duration: 2H00
- Price: Adult – 45€ / Child (from 3 to 10 years old) – 35€
- Capacity: 12 people
- Included
- Multilingual Guide (English, French, Portuguese, Spanish)
- Insurance
Advice: Don´t forget to take a pill for sea sickness if you aren’t use to sailing. Bring a coat as the temperature at sea is always lower than on land. This activity depends on the sea conditions, always try to book in advance.






Video
Tripadvisor
We experienced a fantastic 'Nature tour' in September 2022. Received a fair and good explanation when ordering the tour (which was not always correct with other organizations). Nothing was too... read more much, they didn't even look at the time. Everything went very smoothly. Both the captain and the lady who gave the explanation were super friendly. They let us enjoy the tour. We recommend it to everyone. We promised the captain when we were back in Belgium that we would post a message, it has become a little later than planned, but the promise has been fulfilled.
Taravjt
December 10, 2022rachellamp
Amazing experience, we saw dolphins! The host was so nice & educated. Saw loads of different species of birds and their habitats. Also had lots of time to chill on... read more the islands. It was great as a solo activity too.
October 8, 2022- MV845
We were hoping to have more opportunities to see wildlife and birds up close. The salt marshes are an interesting ecological area, with lots of wildlife and opportunities to... read more learn about how they function. However, we didn't feel that we learned that much, and saw very few birds or other sea life. Binoculars would have made a difference, as sights were often far away. Driver did point out some wildlife, but from distances it was difficult to make them out. Time on Deserta Island was disappointing - not many birds in sight, and boardwalk needs some repair. Lovely beach on Farol Island. Seemed that there was a surplus of free time, when we expected more hand's on info to be provided. That being said, we enjoyed the time on the water and seeing the change in the tidal waters.
October 6, 2022 - erik s
Great trip but quite pricy for what you end up getting, would not do it again.
The time we spent in the actual islands was not enough.
The captain and... read more staff were knowledgeable and shared a lot of great info, but I would honestly get a hop on hop off sort of deal for at least 6-7 hours
August 19, 2022 - BastardTreacle
I went on the morning dolphin tour and it was wonderful.
The boat was comfortable and not overcrowded, the staff were fluent in four languages and ensured everyone understood. They... read more were very knowledgeable about the local area and wildlife. We saw two different species of dolphins, they weren’t shy and came really close up to the boat.
Genuinely wonderful experience, and very relaxing. Thanks to Carlos and Melinda!
August 18, 2022hannahoertel
“Mama, this is the best day of my life” said my 9 year old daughter.
Carlos took us out on the dolphin trip, we weren’t sure that we... read more would spot any initially. The speedboat was very fun, but also peaceful and calming.
Carlos and Gustavo were brilliant, so friendly and you feel they genuinely care about the marine life, this is their life! We managed to see a few different pods, such beautiful creatures in their natural environment. We’ve been traveling with our kids for over a month but this boat trip was an absolute highlight that we will remember forever.
Just book it, you won’t regret it
August 9, 2022
© Copyright – Ecomarine Algarve lda / RNAAT 341/2017, 8000 – 250 Faro Portugal


