Algarve: Dolphin Watching & Benagil Cave Cruise

Summary

Benagil Cave cruise with dolphin watching and swim stop

You’ll feel the rush of spotting wild dolphins off the Algarve coast before cruising beneath Benagil Cave’s golden arches. With live commentary from your guide and time to swim near hidden beaches, this tour brings together nature, local stories, and moments you’ll remember long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We hopped onto the boat at the Algarve marina, salt in the air and a bunch of us squinting at the bright blue. Our guide — I think his name was João — started chatting right away, telling us about the coastline and how sometimes dolphins just appear out of nowhere here. It wasn’t long before someone shouted and pointed, and there they were — actually closer than I expected. I could hear them splash before I even saw them, which felt weirdly magical. The kids on board lost it (in a good way), and honestly, so did most of us adults.

The boat hugged the cliffs as we headed toward Benagil Cave. João slowed down so we could get a good look at those wild rock formations — you know, all honeycombed and gold with sunlight leaking through holes in the ceiling. He joked about how many Instagram photos have been taken here, but then he got quiet for a second while we floated inside. The echo was something else; you could almost taste the sea spray hanging in the air. I tried to take a photo but my hands were salty and slippery from leaning over the rail.

After that, we anchored near this little beach that didn’t even look real — just pale sand, nobody around except another boat far off. Some people jumped straight in; I hesitated (the water looked cold) but ended up swimming anyway because when else? You could hear nothing except water lapping and some gulls arguing overhead. On the way back, João told us stories about growing up nearby. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Benagil” properly — pretty sure I butchered it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and cave exploration

• Explore Benagil Cave
• Observe dolphins in natural habitat
• Swim near paradisiacal beach

Top questions

Can children join this dolphin watching & caves cruise?

No, children under 6 years old are not permitted on this tour.

Is there live commentary during the Benagil Cave cruise?

Yes, your guide provides live commentary on board throughout the experience.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to where the tour departs.

Is swimming included during this Algarve cruise?

Yes, there’s time for a swim near one of Algarve’s beaches during the tour.

Is this dolphin watching tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes live commentary from a local guide as you cruise along Algarve’s coast to Benagil Cave, plus time for swimming near secluded beaches before heading back to port.