Olbia is a fantastic base for exploring Sardinia’s crystal-clear waters. Its proximity to coves, islands, and abundant marine life makes it ideal for snorkeling and boat trips. If you’re looking for memorable underwater moments, you’ll find plenty of options here. We particularly love the dolphin-spotting tours, like the Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling, because they combine wildlife encounters with excellent snorkeling spots, all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Seeing dolphins leap beside the boat is an experience hard to beat, and the chance to snorkel in Cala Moresca adds a colorful underwater dimension.
Whether you prefer calm mornings on the water or a lively dolphin chase, Olbia’s tours cater to different tastes. We’ve included a variety of options that showcase Sardinia’s marine beauty — from boat trips and dolphin watching to sunrise kayak adventures — so you can find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling
This tour offers a blend of dolphin spotting and vibrant snorkeling, making it one of the top choices for marine lovers. With a duration of about 3.5 hours, it’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without an all-day commitment. The trip departs from Sardinia and promises guaranteed dolphin sightings, thanks to the luck of the sea and the expertise of the guide.
The highlight is the opportunity to snorkel in Cala Moresca on Figarolo Island, where the clear waters reveal an array of colorful fish and sea life. The boat also skirts the Capo Figari promontory, offering stunning views of the coastline. A unique feature of this tour is the local aperitif served with homemade snacks and Prosecco, all while soaking in breathtaking scenery. The guide is well-versed in marine biology, especially about bottlenose dolphins, which enhances the experience.
This tour earns a perfect 5/5 rating from over 200 reviews, with many praising the friendly guides and the unforgettable dolphin encounters. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone craving a relaxed, scenic outing with a good chance of seeing playful dolphins close to the boat.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, highly-rated dolphin and snorkeling trip with a personal touch, this tour hits all the right notes.
2. Olbia: Dolphin watching and snorkeling tour on Figarolo Island
This 3-hour trip offers a compact but immersive experience of Sardinia’s marine life and scenic coastlines. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time on the water with dolphin sightings and snorkeling in turquoise waters. Start at Via Punta Istaula, then cruise around Figarolo Island, famed for its vivid marine environment and dramatic cliffs.
The tour’s main draw is the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat, as well as snorkel among colorful fish and marine flora. The itinerary includes stops for swimming and relaxing at Cala Moresca, along with a refreshing onboard drink. The skippers are described as experienced and safety-conscious, adding peace of mind to the fun.
Many reviewers mention the passion and dedication of skipper Ivan, who went out of his way to spot dolphins and even retrieved a lost hat from the water, turning a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure. This tour is a great choice for those with limited time but looking for a lively, wildlife-focused trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dolphin enthusiasts who want to combine marine wildlife with snorkeling in a safe, friendly environment.
3. Sunrise Kayak Tour with Snorkeling and Coffee Experience
For early risers, this 2.5-hour sunrise kayaking adventure offers a peaceful way to start your day. Paddle in the stillness of the sea while soaking in the soft glow of dawn—an experience that’s both calming and invigorating. The tour begins at Spiaggia di Cala Suaraccia, where guides lead you through calm waters for about 45 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the silence and the beauty of Sardinia’s coastline.
Afterward, you’ll snorkel for around half an hour, exploring underwater life in the clear, gentle waters. The highlight is the chance to enjoy a freshly made Italian coffee and breakfast on the beach, a perfect way to fuel up for more water fun. The tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of physical activity and scenic relaxation, especially those who appreciate a slow, mindful start to the day.
While the reviews are limited (only 2), both describe the experience as “beautiful” and “magical,” with attentive guides making sure everyone feels comfortable. Coastline views and the quiet of dawn make this a unique way to see Sardinia from a new perspective.
Bottom Line: Best for early risers and those who enjoy combining kayaking, snorkeling, and a peaceful sunrise with a tasty breakfast.
4. Olbia: Aperitif with Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Trip
This 2.5-hour dolphin and snorkeling trip offers a relaxed, social experience with a focus on wildlife and local flavors. Starting from Viale Isola Bianca, the tour features a speedboat ride around Figarolo Island, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in Cala Moresca. The highlight is the dolphin watching opportunity, where chances are high to see these intelligent creatures leap alongside the boat.
What sets this tour apart is the local aperitif served onboard, with stunning views over the sea, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a combination of wildlife, scenery, and local food culture. The reviews mention the friendly staff and the unforgettable experience of spotting dolphins, adding a personal touch that makes the trip special.
This tour is especially suitable for those short on time but seeking a lively, social outing. Its flexible schedule and the chance to relax with a drink while watching dolphins make it attractive for couples and small groups.
Bottom Line: A fun, social option that combines dolphin watching, snorkeling, and local snacks in a short, memorable trip.
How to Choose
When deciding between these snorkeling experiences, think about what kind of adventure you want. If dolphin encounters are your priority, the Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling offers the most comprehensive experience with guaranteed sightings. For a quick wildlife fix with snorkeling, the Dolphin watching and snorkeling tour on Figarolo is perfect.
If early mornings suit you, the Sunrise Kayak Tour blends serenity with underwater exploration, and it’s ideal if you want a peaceful start. For those looking for a lively, social outing with a dash of local flavor, the Aperitif with dolphin watching is a great pick.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and whether wildlife viewing or active water sports are your main interest. Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours, to secure your spot in Sardinia’s beautiful waters.
Final Thoughts
Olbia offers a range of snorkeling and marine adventure options that suit different tastes and schedules. For a well-rounded, high-rated experience, the Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling stands out, especially for families and wildlife lovers. If you want a quick, exciting dolphin encounter combined with snorkeling, the Figarolo Island tour is perfect.
The sunrise kayak trip offers a quieter, scenic start to your day, while the dolphin and aperitif boat trip provides a lively, social experience. No matter your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Sardinian sea adventures.