Gibraltar is a fantastic place for boating and cruise experiences thanks to its strategic location at the crossroads of the Atlantic and Mediterranean. The Strait of Gibraltar teems with marine life, making it an ideal spot for wild dolphin sightings, seabird watching, and stunning views of two continents — Europe and Africa — all from the water. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise, an adrenaline-pumping activity like wakeboarding, or a private yacht experience, Gibraltar offers a wide range of options. We especially love the Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo for its combination of wildlife viewing and breathtaking vistas from the top of the Rock, or the Luxury, Private Sailing Yacht Charter with crew; Half Day for a more exclusive, personalized experience.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the top boat tours in Gibraltar, helping you pick the best fit for your interests, schedule, and budget.
1. Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo
This 4-hour adventure combines a dolphin watching cruise with a cable car ride to the top of the Rock. Starting from Gibraltar, you’ll cruise through the Strait of Gibraltar, almost certain to spot wild dolphins, including three different species, along with other marine creatures like sunfish, turtles, and flying fish. The boat trip is designed to be gentle and respectful of the dolphins’ space, so their natural behaviors aren’t disturbed. Many reviews praise the crew’s expert navigation to known dolphin hotspots, with one noting, “We saw dozens of dolphins; the crew was very knowledgeable.”
After the cruise, the cable car takes you up to the summit of the Rock of Gibraltar. From there, you get sweeping views of Gibraltar, Spain, and the coast of Africa. The famous Barbary macaques are also close by, adding some playful monkey antics to the trip. The combo offers excellent value—a full morning or afternoon of wildlife, scenery, and fun, with the cable car included.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced experience of marine life and scenic vistas. It’s especially good for families and those who appreciate a relaxed, educational environment. Keep in mind, the cable car adds a bit to the overall cost, but many find the combination well worth it.
Bottom line: A fantastic, all-in-one option for wildlife lovers who want to combine boat and land-based activities in Gibraltar.
2. Gibraltar: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour V.I.P
Standing out for its small-group intimacy, the Gibraltar: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour V.I.P promises a more personalized experience in the 1.5-hour window. Departing from Gibraltar city, this trip is centered on finding and observing wild dolphins in their natural environment. The boat is a state-of-the-art trihedral hulled vessel, which offers great maneuverability for following pods without causing disturbance.
What makes this tour special is the emphasis on respectful wildlife viewing, with many reviews mentioning how the crew actively avoids chasing dolphins, allowing them to approach the boat on their own terms. Passengers often get close enough to almost touch the dolphins, making it a thrilling and authentic experience. One reviewer called it “absolutely spectacular,” and another highlighted seeing a newborn dolphin — a rare sight that adds to the magic.
The tour includes return coach transfers from the Costa del Sol, making it a convenient day trip. Many guests appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the small-group setting, which provides better viewing opportunities and a quieter atmosphere. The price reflects its more exclusive vibe, and the reviews consistently rate it 4.5/5.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate, eco-conscious dolphin safari with the added convenience of transfers.
3. Bay of Gibraltar: Dolphin Cruise
If you’re after a shorter, more relaxed boat trip, the Bay of Gibraltar: Dolphin Cruise offers a 75-minute chance to see dolphins and enjoy the dramatic coastline. Departing from Gibraltar, this cruise emphasizes wild dolphin sightings in the Bay, with many reports of hundreds of dolphins seen during the trip.
This tour stands out for its informative commentary about dolphins and marine life, making it a good choice for families or first-time visitors. Many reviews describe it as a “wonderful experience” and commend the crew’s experience and friendliness. While the time at sea is short, the up-close encounters with dolphins are the highlight, and the views of the Rock of Gibraltar add a scenic touch.
Weather can influence the experience — some reviews mention choppy seas or less dolphin activity in poor conditions — but overall, it’s valued as a good, budget-friendly introduction to Gibraltar’s marine environment. It suits those with limited time or who prefer a more casual trip.
Bottom line: A quick, affordable option to enjoy dolphin sightings and the scenic coast, perfect for a half-day outing.
4. Luxury, Private Sailing Yacht Charter with crew; Half Day
Want a more exclusive experience? The Luxury, Private Sailing Yacht Charter with crew offers a 3.5-hour private cruise for up to six guests. This performance sailing yacht is crewed by John and Alex, who ensure a tailored experience on the water.
On this trip, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Gibraltar and Africa, and have the chance to swim, snorkel, or stand-up paddleboard from the boat. The itinerary includes a stop at Queensway Quay and allows ample time for relaxation and water activities. Many travelers rave about John and Alex’s warm hospitality and the luxurious comfort, with one reviewer calling it “the highlight of our stay.”
The experience is particularly suited for romantic getaways, small groups, or anyone craving a personalized sailing adventure with stunning scenery and water-based fun. The snacks and drinks provided make it a great value for a half-day escape. The main considerations are cost and the need for a small group booking, but the reviews highlight the exceptional quality.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a private, high-end sailing experience with opportunities for swimming, paddling, and enjoying Gibraltar from the water.
5. Boat trip on the Strait of Gibraltar
This multi-purpose boat trip offers a variety of themes — from dolphin watching to wakeboarding, wingfoil, snorkeling, and even deep-sea fishing. Starting from Av. Príncipe de Asturias, this 10-day program caters to different interests with longer excursions that might include dolphin sightings and marine activities like fishing or sunset cruises.
While the description indicates a broad range of options, specifics about itinerary details or reviews are limited, making it more suitable for travelers who want flexibility and multiple activities. The price point of $106 per person suggests it’s a value-packed option for those wanting a comprehensive water-based experience over several days.
Because it emphasizes sports and recreational activities, it appeals to adventurers and sports enthusiasts rather than pure sightseeing. The tours are customizable, which means you can pick the activities that suit your mood and fitness level.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want a multi-day, multi-activity experience, combining dolphin watching with wakeboarding, snorkeling, and fishing.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Gibraltar
Choosing among these options depends on your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want a full day of scenery, wildlife, and scenic views, the Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Combo hits the spot. For a more intimate dolphin encounter, the VIP boat tour offers a quieter, eco-friendly experience. Those with limited time can opt for the Dolphin Cruise for a quick but rewarding outing.
If exclusivity and water-based fun are your priorities, the Luxury Yacht Charter provides a tailored experience complete with swimming and paddling. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers and activity lovers might prefer the multi-activity boat trip, which combines sports, fishing, and marine exploration over several days.
Always consider weather conditions, especially for shorter or outdoor-focused trips, and book early during peak seasons. Gibraltar’s waters are busy and popular, so securing your preferred tour in advance helps ensure a smooth experience.
To sum it up, Gibraltar offers a diverse range of boat tours catering to everyone from wildlife lovers to adventure seekers. For a balanced mix of wildlife and scenic views, the Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Combo is hard to beat, while those looking for a luxurious escape will find the private sailing option irresistible. Whether you prefer a quick trip or a full-day adventure, booking early will help you make the most of these memorable maritime experiences.