Lagos Dolphin Watching Cruise & Ponta da Piedade Sights

Summary

Dolphin watching from lagos with caves golden beaches and playful moments

You’ll set out from Lagos on a catamaran with cushioned seats and shade, guided by locals who know every curve of Ponta da Piedade’s cliffs. Watch dolphins swim nearby (or get a free voucher if not), try fun water activities, and snack as sea breezes roll in. These are moments that linger long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was half convinced we wouldn’t actually see dolphins. You know how these things go—sometimes nature just doesn’t show up when you want it to. But there we were, drifting out from Lagos on this catamaran, the sun already warming my shoulders and that salty smell mixing with sunscreen. Our guide, Joana, had this easy way of pointing out the coastline—she called one rock “the sleeping elephant,” which honestly did look like it needed a nap.

We passed by Ponta da Piedade’s wild cliffs—jagged, yellowish stone that looked almost soft in the morning light. There were little caves carved out by the sea; I tried to snap a photo but mostly ended up with blurry fingers. Then suddenly Joana was waving and everyone rushed to one side (maybe too quickly for the boat’s balance). Dolphins, real ones, right there—slick gray backs slicing through the water. They moved so fast I kept losing them in the glare but caught a glimpse of two leaping together. It’s weirdly quiet in those moments except for people gasping or laughing. I think someone behind me teared up.

After that rush, things slowed down. We got snacks—a little sweeter than I expected—and some kids bounced around on this inflatable water park thing off the back of the boat. The breeze picked up and I just sat there for a while, letting everything sink in. Joana chatted about how sometimes she recognizes individual dolphins by their scars or fins; she sounded proud and a bit protective of them. I liked that.

If you’re thinking about a dolphin watching cruise from Lagos, I’d say go for it even if you’re skeptical like me. There’s something about seeing those cliffs up close and then having dolphins show up on their own terms—it sticks with you longer than you’d expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and coastal sightseeing

• Board the half-day catamaran cruise
• Cruise past famous golden sand beach
• Pass by small paradise-like beach for photos
• View rock formations and caves at Ponta da Piedade
• Watch dolphins in their natural habitat
• Enjoy fun water activities
• Have a complementary tasty snack

Top questions

Is dolphin watching guaranteed on this cruise?

If no dolphins are seen during your trip, you’ll receive a free voucher for another cruise.

Are snacks included during the dolphin watching cruise?

Yes, a complimentary tasty snack is included for all guests onboard.

Does the tour include stops at Ponta da Piedade?

You’ll cruise by and see the famous rock formations and caves of Ponta da Piedade from the boat.

Is this dolphin watching tour suitable for children?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages—even infants can join in prams or strollers.

Are water activities available during the cruise?

An inflatable water park is available onboard for extra fun during your trip.

Can service animals join this dolphin watching tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Public transport options are available close to where the cruise starts in Lagos.

Can I bring alcoholic drinks onboard?

No alcoholic drinks are allowed to be brought onto the boat.

What’s included

Your day includes live commentary from local guides as you sail past golden beaches and dramatic cliffs near Lagos, dolphin watching with guaranteed sightings or a free voucher if not spotted, access to an inflatable water park onboard, complimentary tasty snacks to keep you going, plus cushioned seating areas with shade so you can relax between all those wow moments before heading back ashore.