Dolphin watching tour, coast of Oaxaca: Private or shared

Dolphins and manta rays in their natural habitat, three hours from the dock.

A dolphin-watching tour on the coast of Oaxaca departs at 7 a.m. for approximately 3 hours to observe dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and flying fish in their natural habitat. The boat is equipped with life jackets and scopes. A certified captain leads the tour in English or Spanish. You choose between a private tour for up to 10 people or a shared group experience, and non-alcoholic beverages are included on the private option.

The experience

The boat leaves at 7 a.m., when the ocean is calmest and marine life is most active. You'll spend roughly 3 hours on the water watching for dolphins in their natural habitat, along with sea turtles, manta rays and flying fish. From November through March, there's also a chance to spot whales. The boat itself is spacious and equipped for safety, with life jackets and scopes provided so you can see clearly.

A certified captain leads the tour and the team stays close throughout, speaking English or Spanish depending on what you need. The private option keeps the group to 10 people maximum and includes non-alcoholic beverages. The shared tour lets you meet other travelers on the same boat. Either way, the focus is on watching the animals move and feed in the open water rather than stopping at fixed points. The route follows where the marine life is.

What’s included

• Life jacket and scope.
• non-alcoholic beverages on the private option.
• certified captain and guide in English or Spanish.
• entrance fee.

Options for this experience

2 options

Group TourGuide in English or Spanish · No fixed time

Private TourGuide in English or Spanish · No fixed timeThis activity can be booked as a private tour, with a minimum booking of 5 people.

You pick the guide language when booking.

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (15 to 60 years) · Senior (61 and older) · Youth (10 to 14 years) · Child (3 to 9 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Mariela Fishing Charters

Is this one for you?Choose the private option if your group is up to 10 people and you want beverages included and a smaller boat. Pick the shared tour if you're traveling solo or as a couple and don't mind meeting other travelers.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (10 to 14 years); Child (3 to 9 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What marine animals will I actually see on this tour?

Dolphins are the main draw, and you'll see them in groups in their natural habitat. Sea turtles, manta rays and flying fish are also common sightings. Between November and March, whales occasionally appear, though that's not guaranteed.

Why does the boat leave so early in the morning?

The 7 a.m. departure time is when the ocean is calmest and marine animals are most active, which gives you the best chance of sightings during the 3-hour tour.

What's the difference between the private and shared tour options?

The private tour holds up to 10 people and includes non-alcoholic beverages. The shared tour is a group experience where you travel with other visitors. Both follow the same route and include the same equipment and certified captain.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling equipment is not included with either option, so you'll need to bring your own if you want to snorkel. The tour provides life jackets and scopes for viewing marine life from the boat.

Is this tour suitable if I'm not in great physical shape?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels. Infants can join if they sit on an adult's lap, and service animals are allowed on board.