Arrábida: Dolphin & Whale Watching with Marine Biologist

Summary

See dolphins up close in Arrábida’s clear waters with expert marine biologist guiding your day

You’ll ride out from Sesimbra with a local marine biologist, watch dolphins glide through Arrábida’s clear waters, explore hidden sea caves along wild cliffs, and swim at a secluded beach only boats can reach. Expect laughter, new facts about wildlife—and maybe a moment or two where time just stops around you.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a life jacket before I’d even had my coffee. The port at Sesimbra was already humming—fishermen shouting, ropes slapping against the docks. Our guide, Joana (she’s a marine biologist, but you’d never guess from her sun-bleached hair and sandals), grinned as she explained how we’d spot dolphins if we were lucky. I tried to look confident but honestly, I was just hoping not to get seasick. There was this faint smell of salt and sunscreen everywhere.

We set off into Arrábida’s glassy blue water, and it didn’t take long before Joana pointed out a pod of bottlenose dolphins slicing through the waves. She started rattling off facts about their eating habits—did you know they sometimes hunt together like a team? I couldn’t stop watching their fins flicker in and out of the sunlight. The boat slowed so we wouldn’t disturb them, and for a minute everyone just went quiet except for the gulls overhead. It felt weirdly peaceful. Someone next to me whispered something in Portuguese that made everyone laugh—I still have no clue what he said.

After that, we hugged the coast, passing these jagged limestone cliffs that looked like something from another planet. Joana told us stories about old pirate hideouts in the caves (I mean, who knows if it’s true, but it sounded cool). We got to jump into the water at this tiny bay you can only reach by boat—the sand was almost white and the water cold enough to make you gasp. I think I swallowed half the Atlantic trying to keep up with some kids snorkeling nearby.

I keep thinking about how calm everything felt out there—just us, the dolphins doing their thing, Joana sharing little details about Arrábida that don’t show up on Google Maps. If you’re looking for something real (and don’t mind salty hair), this dolphin watching trip from Sesimbra is kind of perfect—even if you do butcher your Portuguese trying to say “golfinho.”

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and coastal exploration

• Depart from Abrigo de Sesimbra port
• Observe Bottlenose and Common Dolphins
• Learn from marine biologist about dolphins
• Watch wildlife and various bird species
• Swim and sunbathe on secluded beach
• Explore caves and rock formations
• Hear 18th century local stories

Top questions

Where does the dolphin watching tour start?

The tour departs from Abrigo de Sesimbra port.

Is there a guide on the dolphin & whale tour?

Yes, a local marine biologist guides the experience and shares information about wildlife.

Can I swim during the tour?

Yes, there is time for swimming at a beach or bay only accessible by sea.

Are children or infants allowed on this tour?

Infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

What animals can I see on this day trip in Arrábida?

You may see Bottlenose Dolphins, Common Dolphins, various birds, and other wildlife.

Is public transportation available to the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Sesimbra port.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during this activity.

What time does the dolphin watching trip begin?

The meeting time is 9:45 am; departure is at 10:00 am from Sesimbra.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a marine biologist and local guide throughout the cruise; all necessary fees and taxes are covered too. After watching dolphins in Arrábida’s natural park waters, you’ll get to swim at an exclusive beach or bay before heading back along the coast—no extra costs or surprises along the way.