Lagos Dolphin Watching Tour: Marine Biologist Crew & Fast Boat

Summary

Small group dolphin search off Lagos coast with marine experts

You’ll join a small group in Lagos for a fast-boat ride with marine biologists searching for wild dolphins along the Algarve coast. Expect salty air, honest answers from your guides, and close-up moments with dolphins if you’re lucky (most are). The feeling stays with you long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

“You might get wet,” Ana grinned as we zipped up our jackets at Lagos Marina. There was a nervous energy in the air — not just mine, but everyone’s, I think. The marine biologist (I never caught his name, too busy fumbling with my life vest) did this whole safety thing that was actually reassuring, not just routine. I could smell sunscreen and a bit of diesel from the boats nearby. We squeezed onto the rigid inflatable, maybe 15 of us, plus crew — it felt both safe and slightly wild at the same time.

The Algarve coastline looked totally different from out here. Our guide pointed out a cormorant drying its wings on a rock, and someone behind me tried to pronounce “Delphinus delphis” (not easy). The boat cut through the water fast — salty spray everywhere — and then suddenly slowed. Quiet for a second except for gulls. Then there they were: dolphins, right alongside us. I swear one made eye contact. It’s hard to explain how it feels seeing them like that — not staged or anything, just… real. Our guide explained about bottlenose vs common dolphins but honestly I was too busy grinning like an idiot.

I didn’t expect to learn so much — about migration patterns, how they track pods (the science-y bits were actually cool). Ana answered every random question people threw at her, even when someone asked if dolphins ever get bored of humans (she laughed and said probably). On the way back, sun on my face and hair full of saltwater, I kept thinking about that first flash of silver in the waves. Still do sometimes when I hear seagulls now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching tour from Lagos

• Meet at BlueFleet office
• Receive safety and weather briefing
• Set sail from Lagos Marina
• Search for dolphins on boat

Top questions

Where does the dolphin watching tour start in Lagos?

The tour starts at BlueFleet office inside Lagos Train Station.

Is there a guarantee to see dolphins on this trip?

No guarantee is given as these are wild animals; however, success rate is around 97%.

How many people are on each dolphin watching boat?

The group size is limited to 18 people for a more personal experience.

Are children allowed on this dolphin watching tour?

Children under 4 years old are not recommended to join this tour.

Is there commentary or information provided during the trip?

Yes, live commentary is provided by professional guides and marine biologists onboard.

What type of boat is used for dolphin watching from Lagos?

A rigid inflatable boat is used for speed and maneuverability along the coast.

Are there any health restrictions for joining this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

Does the price include pickup or transport?

No hotel pickup is included; public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes live commentary from professional marine biologists as you set out from Lagos Marina in a fast rigid inflatable boat. All safety briefings and guiding are covered by your experienced local crew before heading out to search for dolphins along the Algarve coast together in a small group setting.