Olbia, on the northeastern coast of Sardinia, is a prime spot for dolphin watching. The calm waters, rich marine life, and clear visibility make it an ideal location for spotting these playful mammals. We’ve tested out several options, and what stands out most is the boat tours that combine the thrill of wild dolphin encounters with relaxing coastal scenery. Among these, the Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling gets top marks for its friendly guides, high dolphin sighting success, and opportunities for snorkeling in Cala Moresca. It’s a perfect pick if you want a well-rounded, immersive experience [].
For a more eco-conscious trip, the Olbia: ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting offers a sustainable approach, with over a 95% chance of dolphin sightings and a focus on animal welfare. If you prefer a shorter but lively trip, the Gulf of Olbia: dolphin watching by dinghy combines marine biology with a quick, fun ride on a dinghy. And if you’re after a combination of dolphin spotting with a taste of local Sardinian lifestyle, the Aperitif with Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling tour wraps it all into a 2.5-hour adventure with delicious local drinks included. Below, we’ll explore each one in detail to help you choose the best experience for your trip.
1. Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling
Ranking highest among our picks, this 3.5-hour boat tour offers guaranteed dolphin sightings, snorkeling, and a taste of Sardinian hospitality. The tour starts from Olbia and takes you to Cala Moresca, where the turquoise waters make for perfect snorkeling conditions. The highlight is the chance to see playful bottlenose dolphins swimming near your boat, an experience that many travelers describe as “absolutely amazing.” The boat’s size and comfort level are balanced for a relaxing ride, with an expert guide providing insights into marine life.
The tour also features a local aperitif with breathtaking views, adding a touch of Sardinian culture to your day. Reviewers consistently praise the friendliness of the guides, especially Anette, who is known for her homemade snacks and Prosecco, and her ability to find dolphins. Families with children love the safe snorkeling spots and the chance to swim alongside fishes. The combination of marine encounters, scenic coastlines, and casual socializing makes this tour a top choice for those who want a well-rounded day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking guaranteed wildlife sightings, snorkeling, and a relaxed vibe with great hospitality.
2. Olbia: Dolphin Watching & Swim with prosecco aperitif
This trip is a 3.5-hour eco-friendly boat experience that emphasizes sustainable sailing while maximizing dolphin encounters. Departing from MOYS in Olbia, the tour boasts a 95% success rate for spotting wild dolphins near Figarolo Island — quite impressive for anyone eager to see these animals in their natural environment. The boat is low-impact, blending eco-consciousness with comfort, and the onboard guide shares insightful details about marine ecosystems.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of dolphin watching with soft drinks and prosecco. Reviewers love the professional skipper, Sebastian, and mention how he skillfully navigates windy conditions to keep the dolphins in sight. The route includes scenic coastal views and a snorkeling stop, allowing travelers to enjoy marine life both above and below the water. It’s an excellent choice if you want a responsible tour that still delivers engaging wildlife encounters and a relaxed social atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-minded travelers who want a high success rate of dolphin sightings, with the added bonus of light refreshments and a focus on marine conservation.
3. Gulf of Olbia: Dolphin watching by dinghy
For those seeking a more intimate and educational experience, this 1.5 to 4-hour trip features a marine biologist on board and departs from Bados. The small dinghy allows for closer encounters with the water and wildlife, and the presence of a marine biologist means you’ll get detailed explanations about dolphin behavior and marine ecosystems. The trip’s short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary while still offering a memorable dolphin sighting opportunity.
Guests highlight the professionalism of guides like Nila and Ricardo, who provide a wealth of information and ensure everyone’s comfort. The highlight, of course, is the chance to see dolphins swim close by, creating a moment of genuine connection with nature, complemented by a swim in crystal-clear waters at Cala Moresca or Figarolo. The visit to Capo Figari cliffs adds scenic beauty, making it more than just a wildlife trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who appreciate expert narration and are interested in combining wildlife viewing with brief swims and scenic coastal visits.
4. Olbia: ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting
This eco-focused trip emphasizes sustainable dolphin watching, with a probability of over 95% of dolphin sightings. The boat departs from Olbia and aims to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the chance to see dolphins in the wild. Captain Francesca and guide Claudia are known for their respectful approach to marine life, ensuring the animals are not disturbed.
The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it a quick but meaningful outing. Reviewers mention how the guides avoid pushing for dolphin sightings, instead allowing nature to take its course, which many find more authentic. The scenic ride offers views of Figarolo Island and surrounding nature, making it a peaceful yet exciting experience. It’s perfect for eco-conscious travelers or those short on time who still want a high likelihood of seeing dolphins.
Bottom Line: A responsible, short trip for wildlife lovers who value animal welfare and natural encounters over high-volume sightings.
5. Olbia: Dolphin watching and snorkeling tour on Figarolo Island
This 3-hour tour combines dolphin watching with snorkeling in the vibrant waters around Figarolo Island. The tour begins at Via Punta Istaula and takes you to some of the most beautiful coves, where colorful fish and marine life are abundant. The highlight is the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat, with many reviews mentioning the thrill of those close sightings.
Snorkeling is a key feature here, with calm, turquoise waters perfect for observing underwater life. The experienced skippers ensure safety and comfort, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers report that Ivan, the skipper, is especially friendly and helpful, even retrieving an accidental lost hat from the sea. This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with underwater exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for those who love snorkeling and want to combine it with a dolphin-watching adventure in a scenic setting.
6. Olbia: Aperitif with Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Trip
A shorter 2.5-hour trip designed for those who want a mix of wildlife and local flavor. Starting from Viale Isola Bianca, this tour includes a speedboat ride, scenic sightseeing of Isola di Figarolo, and swimming in Cala Moresca. The highlight is the dolphin watching segment combined with an aperitif — a simple yet memorable way to enjoy Sardinian hospitality.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly staff and the chance to see dolphins in the wild while enjoying a glass of local wine or soft drinks. The tour is well-suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a shorter, social experience rather than a full-day affair.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking to combine wildlife, scenery, and local drinks in a compact, lively trip.
How to Choose Your Dolphin Watching Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your priorities: budget, duration, and interests. If you want a guaranteed dolphin sighting combined with snorkeling and a touch of Sardinian culture, the Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling is a top pick. For eco-conscious travelers, the ecological boat trip offers responsible wildlife viewing with a high success rate.
Short on time? The dinghy tour with a marine biologist provides an educational twist, while the Aperitif boat trip suits those who want a lively, social experience. Budget-wise, all tours vary in value; consider what’s included — like snorkeling gear, drinks, or food — and whether the price justifies the experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (May to September), when dolphin activity is most predictable and tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Olbia offers a range of dolphin watching tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you prefer a relaxed boat ride with snorkeling, an eco-friendly wildlife encounter, or a short social outing with local drinks, there’s something for all. The highest-rated options combine high dolphin sighting success and engaging guides, ensuring memorable moments on Sardinia’s beautiful coast.
For families, the snorkeling and boat tours provide safe, fun ways to connect with marine life. Eco-focused travelers will appreciate responsible tours with low environmental impact and a high chance of seeing dolphins. If you’re pressed for time, the shorter dinghy or aperitif tours still deliver a genuine Sardinian experience.
No matter which you choose, booking early will help secure your spot in these popular excursions. With such diversity, your dolphin watching adventure in Olbia will be one to remember — full of joyful splashes, scenic views, and perhaps, a few playful dolphins swimming alongside your boat.