Dolphin Watching in the Wild with ABC Travel in Lisbon
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required, just comfortable clothing and mobility for boarding and seating.
Overview
Join ABC Travel for a half-day dolphin watching tour on Portugal’s scenic Sado River. See playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment and enjoy a personalized, eco-friendly adventure just outside Lisbon.
Dolphin Watching in the Wild - Half Day Private Tour
Starting at 114€ per person | 4 to 5 hours
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable half-day dolphin watching adventure from Lisbon! Experience the thrill of spotting bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat along the scenic Sado River. Enjoy convenient hotel pickup, a picturesque journey across the Tagus River, and a shared boat tour, all while soaking in the beauty of the region.
Dolphin Watching in the Wild - Half Day
Rates
Private Tour (Prices per Person)
1 Person: 305€ 2 Persons: 187€ 3 Persons: 147€ 4 Persons: 139€ 5 Persons: 124€ 6 Persons: 116€ 7 Persons: 114€ 8 Persons: 114€
Duration
4 to 5 hours approximately
About
We'll pick you up at your accommodation in Lisbon.
After the exit and Lisbon, we will go south, crossing the Tagus River by the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Then we will go to Setúbal, where we will embark to sail on the Sado River looking for the dolphins (about 2 hours)
The Boat Tour is operated by a partner company and is shared.
Catch sight of bottlenose dolphins in the wild on this dolphin watching tour from Lisbon. Head from your hotel to the Sado Estuary, home to one of the largest populations of sedentary bottlenose dolphins in Europe.
- Offered in English, Spanish, Portuguese or French;
- All transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Included
Fuel surcharge Bottled water Driver/escort Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected) Transport by private vehicle River cruise
Not Included
Food and drinks Lunch Gratuities
Adventure Tips
Bring Layered Clothing
Weather can change quickly on the water, so dress in layers to stay comfortable during your tour.
Book in Advance
Tours are popular and limited, so reserve your spot ahead of time to secure your preferred date.
Bring Your Camera
Dolphins often surface unexpectedly—having a camera ready ensures you won't miss capturing the moment.
Wear Sunscreen
Protection from sun exposure is key, even on cloudy days, during your time on the water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sea otters
- Marbled stingrays
History
The Sado estuary has been a vital fishing area since ancient times, with local communities relying on sustainable marine practices.
Conservation
Contemporary tourism efforts focus on preserving dolphin populations and their habitat through responsible guiding and minimal disturbance policies.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Lisbon
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during long hours on the water under the sun.
summer specific
Hat or Cap
Provides shade and shields your face from direct sunlight.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially for distant dolphin pods.
Light Jacket
Warm layers help maintain comfort in cooler weather, especially on breezy days.
spring/fall/winter specific