Olbia, on Sardinia’s northeastern coast, is a prime spot for dolphin watching thanks to its clear waters and abundant marine life. The area around Capo Figari and Golfo Aranci is especially known for its resident bottlenose dolphins, which have been spotted frolicking in these waters for over a decade. Whether you prefer a boat trip, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, Olbia offers options that suit different interests and activity levels. One of our favorites is the Dolphin Watching Tour from Golfo Aranci because of its high success rate in sightings and friendly guides who share insights about local marine life.
If you’re after a more active approach, the kayak tour with aperitif and dolphins offers a peaceful way to experience Sardinia’s coast, while eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the ecological boat trip focusing on animal welfare. For those who want a quick, scenic encounter with dolphins, the dinghy tour with a marine biologist provides an intimate experience with expert narration. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you pick the best dolphin adventure for your trip.
1. Dolphin Watching Tour – from Golfo Aranci
At number one, the Dolphin Watching Tour from Golfo Aranci stands out for its outstanding reviews—an almost perfect 5.0/5 based on 890 reviews. For ~$40.55 per person, this 1.5-hour boat trip takes you into the waters between Capo Figari and Golfo Aranci, where bottlenose dolphins have been a regular sight for over ten years. The boat departs from Olbia but focuses on the stretch of coastline best known for dolphin activity, especially around Figarolo Island.
The crew provides commentary about the Olbia Bay ecosystem and the dolphins’ habits, making this not just a sightseeing trip but an educational experience. The boat pauses in waters where dolphin activity is most frequent, giving everyone ample chances to spot these playful mammals. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the thrill of seeing dolphins up close. Bottled water and iced tea are provided, making the experience comfortable even on warm days.
Bottom line: This tour offers a reliable, well-reviewed opportunity to see Sardinia’s iconic dolphins with a friendly crew and excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers short on time who want a straightforward, memorable wildlife encounter.
2. Kayak tour with aperitif and dolphins
Next on our list is the Kayak tour with aperitif and dolphins. Priced at about $52.14 per person, this 3-hour guided excursion is perfect for those who want an active and intimate wildlife experience. It begins with a brief kayaking lesson, making it suitable for all levels—including complete beginners. Once on the water, you’ll paddle along the coast to Cala Moresca and Figarolo Island, exploring remote coves inaccessible from land.
The tour emphasizes environmental respect, and guides share insights about the local wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, the Sardinian mouflon, and wild boars in the water. After your paddle, you’ll enjoy traditional Sardinian snacks and drinks, adding a taste of local culture to the experience. Small groups—limited to only 8 participants—ensure a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
Reviewers mention how well the guides know the area and how the combination of physical activity and wildlife viewing makes for a memorable morning. Some guests didn’t spot dolphins during their early morning trip but still loved the peaceful paddle and authentic Sardinian aperitivo.
Bottom line: This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and local food, making it ideal for energetic travelers or those who want a more engaging way to encounter Sardinia’s marine life.
3. Stand Up Paddle With Dolphins, aperitif and pictures
For a peaceful and eco-friendly approach, the Stand Up Paddle (SUP) with dolphins is a top choice. Costing around $69.66 per person, this 3-hour guided SUP adventure combines wildlife viewing with a low-impact activity. After a quick lesson from authorized instructors, you’ll glide across the crystal-clear waters of Golfo Aranci, keeping an eye out for dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and even mouflons.
This tour’s emphasis on eco-sustainability means you’ll observe dolphins in their natural environment without disturbance. The guides take videos and photos of your excursion, so you’ll leave with tangible memories of your encounter. Many reviews highlight how beginner-friendly the session is, with guides making sure everyone feels comfortable, even if it’s their first time on a paddleboard.
One reviewer noted, “We had a wonderful evening — the best time from start to finish. Dolphins played in front of us and we couldn’t believe how close they came.” This tour is perfect for travelers who value gentle activities and want to connect with nature in an unobtrusive way.
Bottom line: If you prefer a quiet, environmentally conscious experience that combines wildlife spotting with physical activity, this SUP tour is a fantastic option.
4. Gulf of Olbia: Dolphin watching by dinghy
The dolphin watching by dinghy offers a more personalized and flexible experience, with prices starting at a negotiable rate on booking. This 1.5 to 4-hour adventure departs from Bados and features a marine biologist on board, which makes it particularly appealing for wildlife enthusiasts. The trip includes a swim stop at Cala Moresca or nearby Figarolo, providing a chance to enjoy the stunning waters up close.
This tour stands out for its focus on education and conservation, with a marine biologist sharing insights throughout the trip. It is highly rated (4.9/5 with 52 reviews), with visitors remarking on the enthusiastic guides and the incredible dolphin sightings. The trip’s flexible duration allows you to choose what fits your day, and the swim stops add a refreshing break.
Reviewers mention how smoothly everything runs and how the guides ensure everyone gets a good view. One wrote, “Seeing dolphins was such a special moment, and the bay for swimming was gorgeous. It’s a short trip but packs a lot of value.”
Bottom line: This option is perfect for wildlife lovers who want an educational component and the chance to swim, with a small-group feel and expert commentary.
5. Olbia: Ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting
Rounding out our list is the ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting, which prioritizes sustainability and animal welfare. For about 2 hours, you’ll sail toward Figarolo Island on a vessel operated by a provider dedicated to eco-friendly practices. The probability of sightings is over 95%, making it a reliable choice for dolphin enthusiasts.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the scenery without disturbing the marine environment. Guided by a certified naturalist, you’ll learn about dolphins’ habits and habitat while viewing them in the wild. Many reviewers appreciated the professionalism of the crew—specifically mentioning Captain Francesca and guide Claudia—and highlighted the stunning views of dolphins in natural settings.
One review states, “We saw dolphins dozens of times, and the staff was so kind and professional. It’s a beautiful trip for anyone who cares about wildlife.” Because of its focus on conservation, this tour is best suited for eco-conscious travelers.
Bottom line: If your priority is spotting dolphins in a responsible, eco-friendly manner, this trip offers excellent value and peace of mind, with a high success rate and a focus on animal welfare.
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Olbia
When selecting your dolphin adventure, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. If you want a quick, reliable sighting experience, the Dolphin Watching Tour from Golfo Aranci offers great value and ease. For more active travelers who enjoy paddling, the kayak or SUP tours provide a memorable, physical connection with the sea. Eco-minded travelers should look into the ecological boat trip, which combines wildlife viewing with conservation.
Booking early is recommended during high season (May through September), as the best trips tend to fill up fast. Also, check the weather forecast—calm seas increase your chances of dolphin sightings. For those with limited time, a 1-2 hour trip might be enough, but if you’re keen on a more immersive experience, the longer excursions allow more time for wildlife and scenery.
Final Thoughts
Olbia offers a variety of dolphin watching experiences that suit different preferences and activity levels. The Dolphin Watching Tour from Golfo Aranci tops the list for its excellent reviews and straightforward approach, making it ideal for first-timers. The kayak and SUP trips appeal to those seeking adventure and a closer connection with nature. Meanwhile, eco-friendly options like the ecological boat trip provide responsible wildlife encounters.
Consider what kind of experience fits your travel style—whether it’s a quick boat ride, an active paddle, or an educational eco-tour. Whatever you choose, booking early and planning around good weather will help ensure the best chance at seeing Sardinia’s playful dolphins in their natural environment.