Dolphin Watching & Snorkelling from Olbia: Figarolo Island

Bottlenose dolphins at close range, then two snorkelling stops in water so clear you see the seafloor.

A dolphin-watching boat excursion from Olbia that departs Marina and sails to Figarolo Island, Cape Figari and Cala Moresca, with two snorkelling stops, a naturalist guide specialising in marine biology, and snacks and drinks on board. The boat holds a maximum of 8 people, and the skipper has 20 years of experience. Sighting probability is about 80%.

The Experience

The boat leaves Olbia's Marina and heads straight for the waters where bottlenose dolphins live. A naturalist guide trained in marine biology watches for them and explains what you're seeing as they move through the bay. The skipper has 20 years on these waters, and the boat is new and fitted with comfort features — which matters when you're scanning the horizon for fins and the sea is the only thing around you. Bring a camera; the dolphins jump close to the boat.

Your first snorkelling stop is Figarolo Island, where the water is so clear you can see the white sand and the fish moving across it. The second stop is Cala Moresca's bay, where dozens of colourful fish school in the shallows. Both stretches give you time to swim and explore the underwater life at your own pace. Snorkelling equipment is provided, and the group stays small — maximum 8 people — so you're not jostling for space or waiting for gear.

On the sail between stops, the boat passes Cape Figari's majestic cliffs, the famous 'love cave', and the Indian rock. Sardinian snacks, cold tea, beer and water are available throughout the day. The whole excursion runs about 3.5 hours. Free parking is available at the marina, and public transport options are nearby if you're coming from elsewhere in Olbia.

What’s included

• Snorkelling equipment for both stops.
• Sardinian snacks, water, cold tea and beer throughout the day.
• expert marine biology guide.
• skipper with 20 years of experience.
• free parking at the marina.
• fuel and boat operation.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by BlueSea Charter and Tour

Is this one for you?The small group size (maximum 8) and fixed itinerary with two snorkelling stops mean you're not competing for space or time in the water — the pace is built around actually exploring the underwater life, not rushing through it. Book this one if you want to watch dolphins from a boat without the crowds and then spend real time underwater at two separate sites.

Traveler reviews

4.89★★★★★★★★★★

179 verified traveler reviews

5 ★168

4 ★7

3 ★2

2 ★0

1 ★2

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What's the chance I'll actually see dolphins on this boat?

The sighting probability is about 80%. A naturalist guide trained in marine biology watches for them throughout the excursion and explains their behaviour as you observe them at a respectful distance.

Do I need my own snorkelling gear or is it provided?

All snorkelling equipment is included. You get two separate stops to snorkel — one at Figarolo Island and one at Cala Moresca — with time to explore the underwater life at each.

How many people will be on the boat?

The boat holds a maximum of 8 people, so it stays small and manageable throughout the day.

What's included in the snacks and drinks on board?

Sardinian snacks, cold tea, beer and water are available throughout the excursion and included in the price.

Is this suitable for children?

Children are welcome from age 3 onwards. Children under 3 are not permitted on the boat.