Where to see dolphins in Sardinia: A comprehensive guide to excursions
Sardinia is one of the most fascinating places in the Mediterranean for spotting dolphins in the wild. Its crystal-clear waters and extraordinary marine biodiversity provide an ideal habitat for these cetaceans, offering unforgettable experiences to those who wish to encounter them in their natural environment.
The best places to see dolphins in Sardinia
Golfo Aranci and Figarolo Island: a dolphin paradise
The stretch of sea between Golfo Aranci, Cala Moresca and Figarolo Island is the most renowned and reliable destination for dolphin sightings. For over a decade, the waters surrounding this area have been home to a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, the most common species of dolphin in the Mediterranean.
What makes this area unique is the presence of a fish farm off the coast of Golfo Aranci, which is regularly visited by a colony of dolphins that swim around there in search of food. This factor significantly increases the likelihood of a sighting, making the experience much more than just a matter of hope. The pod has now become so accustomed to human presence that the dolphins often approach the boats out of curiosity, providing unforgettable spectacles.
Capo Figari and Cala Moresca
The Capo Figari headland and the picturesque Cala Moresca provide an extraordinary setting for kayaking trips. The waters here are particularly clear and teeming with marine life, attracting dolphins which find an abundance of prey here. Cala Moresca, with its white sandy beach and turquoise sea, is one of the most beautiful coves in the area and is a must-see for anyone exploring this stretch of coastline by kayak.
Island of Figarolo
This small, uninhabited island, accessible only by sea, is surrounded by seabeds teeming with Posidonia and fish, which regularly attract dolphins. The waters around the island are a veritable marine sanctuary, where you can observe cetaceans in complete tranquillity, far from the noise and traffic of motorboats.
Other sighting locations in Sardinia
As well as Golfo Aranci, there are other areas in Sardinia where you can spot dolphins:
Tavolara and Capo Ceraso: this protected area, a little further south, is home to a large population of dolphins and offers breathtaking scenery
Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area (Villasimius): the crystal-clear waters and seabeds teeming with life attract bottlenose dolphins all year round
La Maddalena Archipelago: the pristine waters between the islands offer excellent opportunities for sightings
Oristano and Sinis: the Cabras area and the Sinis Peninsula are home to dolphins, particularly in the spring and summer months
How to spot dolphins in Sardinia: the best ways
Dolphin-spotting by kayak: the most respectful and exciting way
A kayak is undoubtedly the ideal way to spot dolphins in Sardinia. Compared to motorboats, kayaks offer numerous advantages:
Quietness: the kayak does not make any noise that might startle the dolphins or affect their natural behaviour
Respect for the environment: it uses no fuel, causes no pollution and does not damage the seabed
A discreet approach: dolphins are intrigued by kayaks and often approach them of their own accord
An immersive experience: you experience the sea by being in contact with the water, with an unrivalled sense of freedom
Access to bays and coves: you can reach places that are inaccessible to larger boats
Kayaking trips are suitable for everyone, including beginners, thanks to the expert guides who provide basic instructions and accompany the group throughout the trip.
Dolphin-spotting on a rubber dinghy
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, there are excursions by rubber dinghy or sailing boat departing from the ports of Golfo Aranci, Olbia or Porto Rotondo. These tours offer the advantage of covering greater distances and having experienced skippers on board who know the best spots for sightings.
The best tours for dolphin-watching
Kayaking Moresca
Kayaking Moresca It is a company based in Golfo Aranci that specialises in kayaking and SUP excursions along the coast between Cala Moresca, Capo Figari and the island of Figarolo. Their excursions, which last around three hours, include:
An introductory kayaking lesson for beginners
Full kit (kayak, paddle, life jacket)
Snorkelling in the waters of Cala Moresca
A stop on the island of Figarolo
A traditional Sardinian aperitif featuring local produce
An expert guide, often with expertise in marine biology
The company is renowned for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability and raising awareness of the protection of dolphins and their habitat. Groups are limited to a maximum of ten participants to ensure a personalised experience and minimise the impact on the environment.
Marco del Mare
Marco del Mare It is one of the longest-established and best-known dolphin-watching operators in Golfo Aranci. Led by Captain Paolo, the fleet sets sail from Golfo Aranci’s fishing harbour all year round. The dolphins now recognise Paolo’s boats and treat the lucky guests to dives and acrobatic displays.
Details of the experience:
Boat tour departing from the port of Golfo Aranci
Dolphin sightings around Figarolo Island
A maximum of 12 passengers per boat to ensure comfort and privacy
Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2024
Option to have lunch on board featuring local produce
DST Sardinia (Sardinia Diving & Snorkelling Team)
DST Sardinia It is a PADI dive resort that organises dolphin-watching trips in the Tavolara and Golfo Aranci Marine Protected Area. The company offers:
A dolphin-watching tour by rubber dinghy lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Probability of sighting greater than 95%
Groups of up to 12 participants
Certified on-board guide with expertise in marine biology
Tours are also available in French, Spanish and English
Where is it?: Departures from Golfo Aranci, Olbia and Portisco
Figarolo Diving Centre
Figarolo Diving Centre It is a company based in Golfo Aranci that organises boat trips for dolphin watching, as well as snorkelling and diving activities in the waters around Figarolo Island and Capo Figari. The company stands out for:
Dolphin-spotting tours by rubber dinghy
Snorkelling trips in the waters around Figarolo Island
Experienced and certified diving guides
Departure directly from the port of Golfo Aranci
Option to combine dolphin-watching with diving
Small groups to ensure a personalised experience
Where is it?: Golfo Aranci Harbour.
Main activities: dolphin watching, snorkelling, scuba diving.
Nautical Service
Nautical Service It is a boat hire company based in Golfo Aranci which offers the option of hiring boats, with or without a skipper, for dolphin-watching trips. The company offers:
Inflatable boat hire with an experienced skipper for wildlife-spotting tours
Motorboat hire without a licence for self-guided trips
Tailor-made tours for families and groups
Advice on the best routes for spotting dolphins
Option to include snorkelling stops and visits to Cala Moresca and Figarolo Island
Where is it?: Golfo Aranci Harbour.
Services offered: boat hire with or without a skipper, bespoke tours
When to see dolphins in Sardinia
The best times of the year
Dolphins can be found in Sardinian waters all year round, but the periods when sightings are most likely are:
Spring (April-June): the waters are warming, the dolphins are more active and the pods are moving in line with the fish migrations
Summer (July–September): the most popular time of year, with warm water and calm seas, although it is more crowded
Autumn (October–November): the temperatures are still mild, dolphins can be spotted and the sea is less busy
The best times
Early in the morning, shortly after dawn, is generally the best time for sightings, when the sea is calmest and the dolphins are most active whilst hunting. Late afternoon also offers good chances.
Practical tips for birdwatching
What to bring
Swimsuit and towel
Biodegradable sun cream to protect the marine environment
Sunglasses with safety straps
Camera with a waterproof lens or a waterproof case
A water bottle to keep you hydrated
Lightweight clothing, but with a jumper for the sea breezes
How to behave
Remain silent during the sighting
Do not throw rubbish into the sea
Do not touch or feed the dolphins
Keep a safe distance
Always follow the guide’s instructions
Avoid sudden movements that might frighten the animals
Why choose a kayaking trip with Kayaking Moresca
Kayaking Moresca is an excellent choice for anyone wishing to experience the thrill of dolphin watching in an authentic and responsible way. The company stands out for its in-depth knowledge of the area, its commitment to sustainability and the quality of the experience it offers.
Setting off from Baracconi Beach in Golfo Aranci, near the junction for Cala Moresca, allows you to immerse yourself immediately in a natural setting of extraordinary beauty. The kayaking route takes you past the spots most frequented by dolphins, offering an excellent chance of spotting them along the way.
The Moresca kayaking guides are able to recognise individual members of the pod and describe their habits, enriching the experience with valuable information on the biology and behaviour of bottlenose dolphins.
Frequently asked questions about where to see dolphins in Sardinia
Where can you be sure to see dolphins in Sardinia?
Golfo Aranci, Cala Moresca and Isola Figarolo offer the best chances of sightings thanks to the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins in the area.
When is the best time to see dolphins in Sardinia?
The months from April to October offer the best conditions
How much does a dolphin-watching trip cost?
Prices range from 50 to 80 euros per person for a half-day excursion, including equipment.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, dolphin-spotting trips are a real treat for children
Can you see dolphins all year round?
Yes, dolphins can be seen all year round
Is a kayak or a rubber dinghy better for spotting dolphins?
Kayaking is preferable because it is quiet and environmentally friendly, and the dolphins tend to approach more readily.
Do you need to be able to swim to go on the excursion?
You don’t need to be able to swim, as you’ll be on board the boat.
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