Mallorca isn’t just about stunning beaches and lively towns; it’s also a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts and sea lovers. The warm Mediterranean waters and clear visibility make Mallorca an ideal place to spot dolphins in their natural environment. Among the many options, we’re partial to cruises that combine wildlife encounters with scenic views—like the Alcudia or Can Picafort: Dolphin-Watching Cruise, which offers a mix of dolphin sightings, sea caves, and even a swimming stop at Es Coll Baix. Its high rating of 4.8 stars from over 2,100 reviews speaks to its popularity and reliability.
If you prefer an early start with the magic of a sunrise, then the Port d’Alcudia: Sunrise at Sea & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour delivers a breathtaking experience that’s both peaceful and exhilarating. For those who love more active, small-group adventures, tours like the From Can Picafort: Dolphin Watching and Cave Boat Trip provide intimate encounters with marine life and the chance to swim in pristine waters.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of dolphin watching experiences, from relaxing daytime cruises with glass-bottom viewing to early-morning speedboat rides at sunrise. Many tours include additional highlights like sea cave visits, snorkeling stops, and scenic coastline explorations. For a detailed look at what each offers, keep reading as we go through each option in order of ranking and popularity.
1. Alcudia or Can Picafort: Dolphin-Watching Cruise
Starting our list at number one, the Alcudia or Can Picafort: Dolphin-Watching Cruise has earned a stellar 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 2,100 reviews. This 3-hour trip takes you along the Mallorcan coast where pods of dolphins often frolic in their natural habitat. The tour also visits sea caves and offers a swimming stop at Es Coll Baix, a beautiful beach surrounded by cliffs, perfect for a quick dip.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of wildlife viewing and scenic coastline. The captain, Diego, is praised for his lively commentary and fun approach—sometimes doing tight turns to get closer to dolphins or exploring caves with local flair. Many guests mention how magical it was to see a baby dolphin with its mother, and the smaller boat size allows for a more intimate encounter. Optional hotel pickup boosts convenience, making it suitable for families or those wanting a relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a reliable, well-reviewed dolphin cruise with plenty of scenery and a friendly crew, this trip is hard to beat.
2. Port d’Alcudia: Sunrise at Sea & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
Number two goes to the Sunrise at Sea & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour, rated 4.6 from nearly 1,600 reviews. This 3-hour morning trip captures Mallorca’s coast at dawn, when the sea is calm and dolphins are most active. It’s a spectacular way to start the day, with breakfast included and the sky changing color as you glide over the water.
Guests love the breathtaking coastal views and the chance to see dolphins early in the morning. The itinerary includes sightseeing, a sunrise cruise, and a dedicated dolphin-watching segment that usually delivers good sightings. Reviewers mention how surreal the experience was, with one saying, “the journey started about an hour before sunrise, with a perfect cosy playlist,” emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for early risers who want a combination of wildlife, scenic beauty, and a memorable sunrise experience.
3. Can Picafort: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour, Swimming stop
At number three, the Can Picafort Dolphin Watching Boat Tour offers a three-hour adventure rated 4.8 from 766 reviews. On this trip, you’ll spot playful dolphins and visit a natural cave and cove on the return journey. The tour is praised for its scenic northern coastline views and the opportunity to swim and snorkel if weather permits.
Unique to this experience is the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment, with a captain who actively helps guests spot them. The scenic cave and cove stops add a layer of exploration that appeals to travelers keen on marine landscapes. Several reviews mention how the dolphins appeared close enough for great photos, making it ideal for families and nature lovers.
Bottom Line: For those looking for a combination of dolphin sightings and underwater fun, this tour offers great value and fun.
4. Mallorca: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise & Glass-Bottom Boat
A shorter but very popular choice, the Mallorca: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise gets a solid 4.5 stars from 1,395 reviews. This family-friendly cruise is notable for its glass-bottom deck, allowing you to view underwater wildlife without getting wet. The boat focuses on Risso’s and bottlenose dolphins swimming in crystal waters.
Guests mention how much they enjoyed sunbathing on the upper deck or snacking at the bar, with many appreciating the modern, clean boat. The dolphins often swim close enough to delight watchers. Reviewers highlight that this trip offers good value, especially with its shorter duration, making it suitable for families with young children or travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, comfortable cruise with great dolphin sightings and underwater views, this is a top pick.
5. From Can Picafort: Dolphin Watching and Cave Boat Trip
Number five, the Dolphin Watching and Cave Boat Trip, offers a three-hour journey rated 4.8 by over 550 reviews. This trip is limited to 12 participants, providing a personal and relaxed atmosphere. Besides watching dolphins, it explores sea caves along the northern coast and stops at Es Coll Baix for swimming.
Guests love the small-group vibe and the professional guide who shares interesting facts about Mallorca’s coastline. The trip’s highlight is the chance to spot dolphins early in the morning, often with impressive sightings. Many reviewers mention how the caves were cool, and the crystal-clear water makes for an excellent swim.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who prefer an intimate, guided experience with a focus on wildlife and natural beauty.
6. Mallorca: Dolphin Watching Cruise
Rated 4.5 from nearly 1,000 reviews, the Mallorca Dolphin Watching Cruise from Santa Ponsa or Paguera is a 3-hour family-friendly trip on a glass-bottom catamaran. It offers the chance to see dolphins and stop for swimming in turquoise waters.
Guests rave about the friendly crew and the relaxed atmosphere. The glass bottom lets you view marine life without snorkel gear, which is perfect for those not keen on getting wet. Many reviews mention the abundance of dolphins, with one stating, “we saw lots of dolphins and enjoyed the snorkeling stop.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for families needing a comfortable, relaxing dolphin trip with underwater views and swimming opportunities.
7. Mallorca: 3-Hour Afternoon Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
This afternoon cruise, rated 4.3 from over 1,000 reviews, is perfect for travelers wanting a midday adventure. The 3-hour trip from Santa Ponsa or Paguera features dolphin sightings, underwater windows, and options to swim. Guests often mention the boat’s spacious solarium and entertainment onboard as added bonuses.
Many reviewers appreciated seeing dolphins swim close to the boat, sometimes for over 20 minutes, creating memorable moments. The value for money is good, especially considering the great views and sightings.
Bottom Line: A strong choice for those who want a fun, relaxing afternoon with the chance for a swim.
8. Dolphin watching by boat
Number eight is a guaranteed sighting adventure, rated 5.0 from 83 reviews. The Dolphin watching by boat departs at dawn, the best time to see dolphins actively jumping and swimming. The tour begins at Cap de Formentor and promises a 2-hour experience with the best chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
Reviewers highlight how the crew is friendly and professional, and the early start offers a peaceful, less crowded experience. The guaranteed sighting makes it appealing for anyone wanting a sure thing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife purists and early risers who want a guaranteed and intimate dolphin encounter.
9. From Palma: 3-Hour Morning Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
Number nine features the Palma morning tour, rated 4.2 from 423 reviews. This 3-hour trip aboard the boat “Carpe Diem” offers dolphin spotting, snorkeling in a cove, and relaxing onboard.
Many guests mention smooth transfers and plenty of dolphin sightings lasting around 20 minutes. While some note the lack of a guide, the friendly crew and good snorkeling spots compensate. The cost-effective price makes this suitable for budget travelers.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a value-packed, family-friendly trip with a mix of wildlife and water fun.
10. Dolphin Watching in Mallorca
Rated 4.5 stars, the Dolphin Watching in Majorca offers a 3-hour boat trip on a catamaran with underwater vision. It’s famed for sailing along the southwest coast, stopping in bays for swimming and snorkeling. The onboard bars make it easy to relax with drinks as you search for dolphins.
Reviewers mention seeing dolphins jump and play in their habitat, with the added bonus of marine wildlife spotting, including whales. The underwater vision adds a special touch, especially for families or curious travelers keen to see marine life without getting wet.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife lovers who appreciate a mix of dolphins, whales, and scenic coastlines.
11. Alcudia: Dolphin Adventure Cruise
Number eleven, the Dolphin Adventure Cruise, has a 4.6 rating from 31 reviews. This 2.5-hour trip from Alcudia is centered on dolphin sightings and exploring the Mallorcan coastline. It’s a straightforward, family-oriented option with a focus on making memories.
Guests enjoy watching dolphins in their natural habitat and exploring the coastline’s marine scenery. It’s good for travelers looking for a shorter, less intense experience but still keen to see dolphins.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a quick, fulfilling dolphin watching experience with a relaxed pace.
12. Alcudia: Dolphin Watching at Sunrise with Speedboat
Finally, at number twelve, the Dolphin Watching at Sunrise with Speedboat is rated 4.9 out of 5 from just 16 reviews. This 2-hour tour offers a speedy, exciting way to see dolphins as the sun rises over the sea. The melodic music and playful dolphins jumping around your boat create a lively, memorable experience.
Guests rave about how dolphins swim close enough to jump near the boat, often for about 30 minutes. The speedboat adds an element of thrill, perfect for travelers seeking an adventure-packed morning.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure lovers who want to combine speed, sunrise magic, and dolphin encounters.
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Mallorca
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, time of day, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a relaxed day with scenic views and swimming, the Alcudia or Can Picafort cruise is perfect. If you’re an early riser craving a peaceful sunrise voyage, try the Sunrise at Sea & Dolphin Tour. For a small-group, intimate experience, the Dolphin Watching and Cave Trip excels.
Budget travelers might prefer shorter cruises like the Glass-bottom boat, while those seeking a guaranteed sighting should consider the Dolphin watching by boat. If you love a thrill, the Sunrise Speedboat offers an energetic start to your day.
Remember to book early, especially in peak season, as these tours tend to fill quickly.
Final thoughts:
Mallorca offers a rich selection of dolphin watching options catering to all preferences and schedules. Whether you prefer the peace of a sunrise cruise, the intimacy of small-group tours, or the excitement of a speedboat, you’ll find a trip that fits your style. For the best chance at a memorable encounter, pick a tour that matches your interests and time constraints, and book ahead—these tours are popular for good reason. Enjoy your time in Mallorca and may your dolphin sightings be plentiful!