Estepona Bay: Dolphin Watching Sail & Drinks Included

Summary

Estepona dolphin watching with swim stop and drinks

You’ll sail Estepona Bay searching for dolphins with a local captain, pausing for a refreshing swim in clear water and enjoying free drinks like cava or tinto de verano on board. The relaxed pace and open decks make it easy to unwind — expect laughter, maybe new friends, and real moments with the sea all around you.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a cold tinto de verano before I’ve even found my spot on the Intrepido’s deck — it’s that kind of place, where everyone’s already smiling and the sea smells sharp, almost green. Our captain, Juan, points out Estepona’s coastline slipping by while a couple of kids lean over the rail, whispering about dolphins. I’m not sure who’s more excited, honestly.

The boat moves slow enough that you can feel every gentle roll beneath your feet. Sometimes there’s this hush when everyone’s scanning the water for fins — then suddenly someone shouts and there they are, a whole group darting just ahead. I tried to film but mostly ended up laughing at myself. There was cava if you wanted it (I stuck with beer), and Li from Madrid made a toast to “los delfines” — her accent so cheerful it made half the boat giggle.

We stopped for a swim near some rocky bit where the water looked almost glassy. It was colder than I expected; one of those moments that wakes you up in your bones. The sun felt good after, drying off on deck while people passed around juice boxes or another round of wine. Someone played music quietly from their phone but mostly it was just waves and voices — I still think about how peaceful that felt.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and swimming

• Board the sailboat Intrepido
• Sail through Estepona Bay
• Search for dolphins
• Stop for a swim
• Relax on board

Top questions

How long is the dolphin watching tour in Estepona?

The dolphin watching tour lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Are drinks included on the Estepona dolphin cruise?

Yes, free drinks like cava, white wine, tinto de verano, beer, soft drinks, juices, and water are included.

Can we bring our own food on board?

Yes, you can bring your own food onto the sailboat.

Is swimming allowed during the tour?

Yes, there is a stop for swimming during the cruise.

Is this dolphin watching tour suitable for children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Are service animals permitted on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

Does the Estepona dolphin tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

What’s included

Your time on board includes free-flowing drinks—cava, white wine, tinto de verano, beers, soft drinks, juices and water—plus plenty of space to relax in sun or shade as you sail Estepona Bay in search of dolphins. You can bring your own food along too and enjoy a swim stop before heading back to shore.