Lisbon Dolphin Watching Tour & Marine Biologist Boat Trip

Summary

Speed past Lisbon’s bridge for wild dolphin encounters with marine experts

You’ll race past Lisbon’s riverfront on a small RIB boat with a marine biologist guiding your search for wild dolphins in the Atlantic. Watch for seabirds and learn about local marine life while feeling the ocean wind on your face. Includes all safety gear, expert crew, and stories you’ll remember long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of water against the hull and that low, almost humming sound as we zipped out from Doca de Santo Amaro. The 25th of April Bridge stretched overhead — honestly, it looked even bigger from below, all red steel and shadows. Our guide, Sofia (she’s an actual marine biologist), handed out lifejackets and grinned at my nervous laugh. “Don’t worry,” she said, “the dolphins like a bit of speed too.” Not sure if she was joking but it helped.

Leaving Lisbon behind is quick — one minute you’re staring at Belém’s monuments, next thing there’s nothing but salt air and open Atlantic. Sofia explained how they spot dolphins (it’s more science than luck, apparently) and had us scanning for seabirds too. I kept thinking I saw something every time the sun hit the water just right. There was this moment when everyone went quiet — just wind and the boat engine — then someone shouted, and suddenly there they were: a pod of dolphins arcing through the waves like it was no big deal. I didn’t expect to feel that much joy just seeing them.

Sofia pointed out differences between species — I still mix them up — and told stories about tagging projects around Lisbon. She even let us try her binoculars (harder than it looks). The air smelled sharp, like seaweed and sunscreen mixed together. At some point my hands got cold gripping the rail but I barely noticed until later. There were seabirds everywhere too; one dived so close to us that Li (from our group) actually ducked and everyone laughed.

We didn’t see any whales or turtles this time, but honestly? Just being out there felt good. Three hours went fast. On the way back under the bridge, Sofia asked if anyone got seasick — turns out bread and apples are her trick (I wish I’d known before breakfast). I still think about those dolphins sometimes when I hear traffic on city bridges now — funny how things stick with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching tour from Lisbon

• Depart from Doca de Santo Amaro dock
• Pass under 25th of April bridge
• View Belem neighbourhood monuments
• Enter Atlantic Ocean from Tagus Estuary
• Scan ocean for dolphins and wildlife
• Learn about cetaceans with marine biologist
• Spot marine species like sunfish and turtles
• Return to Lisbon dock

Top questions

Where does the Lisbon dolphin watching tour start?

The tour departs from Doca de Santo Amaro in Alcântara, under the 25th of April Bridge.

How long does the dolphin watching trip last?

The experience lasts approximately 3 hours from departure to return.

Is there a marine biologist on board during the tour?

Yes, an expert marine biologist leads each dolphin watching trip in Lisbon.

What kind of boat is used for this dolphin tour?

The tour uses a fast 8.5m rigid inflatable boat (RIB) designed for comfort and safety.

Are motion sickness pills provided if needed?

Yes, motion-sickness pills are available if necessary during the trip.

Is this dolphin watching tour suitable for children?

This tour is not suitable for babies under 5 years old; otherwise most ages can join.

Will we see other wildlife besides dolphins?

You may also spot sunfish, sharks, jellyfish, whales or sea turtles depending on conditions.

Are hotel pickups included in this Lisbon dolphin tour?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at Doca de Santo Amaro dock in central Lisbon.

What’s included

Your day includes a seat on a comfortable RIB boat with all safety gear provided—lifejackets included—a knowledgeable marine biologist as your guide plus crew support throughout. All fees and taxes are covered, as well as public liability insurance. If you need it, they’ll offer motion-sickness pills too before heading out to spot dolphins off Lisbon’s coast.