Gibraltar is a fantastic spot for boat tours and cruises. Sitting at the crossroads of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, it offers some of the most reliable dolphin sightings and scenic waterway views in Europe. Whether you’re after the thrill of spotting wild dolphins, a luxurious private yacht experience, or a quick cruise with stunning vistas, Gibraltar’s waters deliver. We especially love the Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo because it combines an exciting dolphin safari with unforgettable views from the Rock—plus, the chance to see Barbary macaques up close. For a more comprehensive exploration, the From Malaga: Day trip to Gibraltar and Dolphin Boat Tour is a great option, blending sightseeing and marine encounters with the comfort of a guided coach journey. Whatever your style, these tours show off Gibraltar’s best marine attractions and scenic coastlines.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of boat tours and cruises in Gibraltar, from half-day dolphin cruises and VIP boat trips to full-day private yacht charters. You’ll find options suited for budget travelers, adventure seekers, or those looking for a luxurious experience. For example, the Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo offers an engaging half-day with guaranteed dolphin sightings and stunning views from the cable car. The Private Full-day Sailing Cruise from Gibraltar by Yacht is perfect for those wanting privacy and a bespoke experience. Diving into the details below will help you decide which cruise best matches your travel plans and interests.
1. Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo
At number 1, this combo delivers a top-notch dolphin-watching cruise paired with a skip-the-line cable car ride. The 4-hour cruise takes you into the Strait of Gibraltar, where wild dolphins—three species, often seen—frolic in their natural habitat. The boat is a comfortable catamaran built for optimal viewing, and reviews rave about how easy it is to spot dolphins, turtles, sunfish, and flying fish. The crew is praised for their knowledge and respectful approach, keeping a safe distance from the animals.
After the cruise, you’ll hop on Gibraltar’s famous cable car to the top of the Rock, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Gibraltar, the mountains of Africa, and the Mediterranean. Visitors love how seamless this combo is, giving you an immersive marine experience plus spectacular land views—all in one trip. With over 2,000 reviews averaging 4.4/5, it’s a reliable choice for families and nature lovers alike. The only downside: the cable car is a bit pricey, but the overall value is high considering the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those short on time but eager to see dolphins and enjoy Gibraltar’s iconic vistas, this combo is value-packed and highly rated.
2. From Malaga: Day trip to Gibraltar and Dolphin Boat Tour
Number 2 brings you a full day out involving bus travel from the Costa del Sol, a guided tour of Gibraltar, and a dolphin boat trip. For around $70, this tour offers a balance of sightseeing and marine wildlife viewing, with the chance to see up to three dolphin species in their natural environment. The tour includes free time in Gibraltar so you can explore the town, visit shops, or enjoy local food.
The boat tour part of this experience is praised for its relaxed pace and friendly crew, with reviews noting excellent service and the opportunity to see dolphins swimming close to the boat. The guide, Daniel, is particularly appreciated for going above and beyond to ensure everyone has a good time, including helping travelers with mobility difficulties. The tour’s biggest strength is its comprehensive nature—combining land exploration with sea adventures.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience that covers the highlights of Gibraltar and exciting dolphin sightings, all with excellent reviews.
3. Gibraltar: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour V.I.P
Number 3 offers an intimate, VIP-style dolphin cruise lasting about 1.5 hours. This tour departs from Gibraltar city, setting sail across the Bay and Strait in a state-of-the-art trihedral hulled boat that’s highly maneuverable—perfect for following pods of wild dolphins. The small group size ensures better views and a more personal experience.
Guests consistently rave about the almost guaranteed dolphin sightings, with some seeing dolphins for 35-40 minutes straight. The crew is described as friendly, professional, and passionate, making it clear they’re dedicated to respectful wildlife viewing. Refreshments and toilet facilities onboard add comfort, and the transfer from Costa del Sol is included, making it easy to jump on and off.
This tour stands out for its quality of viewing experience and small-group intimacy, making it a hit for families and wildlife enthusiasts looking for a more exclusive boat trip. With a 4.5/5 rating, it’s a dependable choice for near-guaranteed dolphin encounters.
Bottom Line: A premium, small-group boat trip perfect for travelers wanting a close, relaxed encounter with dolphins in Gibraltar’s waters.
4. Half day charter on private sailing yacht in Gibraltar
Number 4 features a bespoke half-day adventure aboard the Starlet of Dover, a sleek performance yacht. This private charter is tailored to your group—up to six people—and offers a flexible, luxurious way to experience Gibraltar’s coastline.
You’ll enjoy personalized service from your crew, who take care of everything from sailing to swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. The trip includes a scenic cruise along the coast, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the views of the Rock and Africa. Guests rave about the warm hospitality, tasty tapas, and the chance to swim in secluded spots. The boat is modern and well-maintained, making for an elegant yet laid-back day on the water.
Perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking privacy and comfort, this tour offers an exclusive experience that’s hard to beat. The high cost reflects its bespoke nature, but reviews highlight excellent value for the intimacy and quality.
Bottom Line: A top pick for those wanting a luxurious, private sailing experience with personalized service and stunning scenery.
5. Private Full-day Sailing Cruise from Gibraltar by Yacht
Number 5 is for serious sailing lovers. This full-day private yacht charter offers a seven-hour adventure on a stunning vessel, allowing you to customize your day. It’s ideal for families, friends, or even corporate groups looking for exclusivity.
The trip includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming, alongside delicious lunch and refreshments. The crew, John and Alex, are experienced sailors who make guests feel comfortable while providing fascinating insights into Gibraltar’s waters. Reviewers describe the experience as “spectacular” and highlight the personalized attention and relaxed tempo.
This tour is best suited for those with a bit of sea legs and a desire for an all-day, immersive sailing adventure. It may be more expensive but compensates with an entirely private and flexible itinerary.
Bottom Line: Excellent for groups seeking a luxury, all-day private sailing trip with options for water activities and onboard dining.
6. Bay of Gibraltar: Dolphin Cruise
Number 6 offers a short, 75-minute cruise in the Bay of Gibraltar, focusing on wild dolphin sightings. The tour is compact but effective, with passengers enjoying comfortable seating and excellent views of playful dolphins.
The crew provides informative commentary about dolphins and Gibraltar’s marine environment. Reviews highlight the abundance of dolphins seen, the friendly crew, and the value for money. Some mention the weather can be windy, so bringing a jacket is recommended, but overall, this cruise delivers a quick but rewarding marine experience.
While shorter than others, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time or wanting a taste of Gibraltar’s marine life without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A great short cruise for dolphin lovers who want a quick, enjoyable glimpse of wildlife in Gibraltar’s waters.
7. Boat trip on the Strait of Gibraltar
Number 7 is a more comprehensive, multi-day experience. It offers varied trips—from wakeboarding and snorkeling to deep-sea fishing and even birthday cruises—on the Strait of Gibraltar. The itinerary includes marine life viewing, swimming, and sunset cruises, making it a versatile choice.
This trip is geared toward adventure seekers and those wanting multiple activities. The 10-day options include sports boat trips, dolphin watching, and deep-sea fishing, providing an all-encompassing look at Gibraltar’s waters. Reviewers mention the diverse experiences and the chance to encounter whales and tuna, although some note that sightings depend on weather conditions.
This trip is suited for longer-stay travelers or groups with varied interests. It’s less about a quick sightseeing trip and more about immersive water-based adventures.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an extensive, multi-activity maritime experience in Gibraltar, this multi-day trip offers plenty of options.
$106 per person
8. Luxury, Private Sailing Yacht Charter with crew; Half Day
Number 8 is a luxury, private half-day sailing experience, similar to number 4 but with a focus on premium comfort and personalized service. The 3.5-hour trip departs from Queensway Quay and includes snorkeling, paddleboarding, and stunning views of the Rock and Africa.
Guests love the warm hospitality from hosts John and Alex, who provide fabulous tapas and drinks. The boat is a luxury performance sailing yacht, offering an elegant, relaxed atmosphere. The itinerary is flexible, with stops for swimming or relaxing onboard, making it ideal for those wanting a luxury escape on the water.
This tour is best for small groups seeking exclusivity, high-end amenities, and a tailored experience. Reviewers highlight it as the highlight of their Gibraltar trip, emphasizing the friendly hosts and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a luxury, intimate sailing adventure with excellent food, drinks, and scenic views.
How to Choose Your Ideal Gibraltar Water Adventure
When selecting a boat tour or cruise in Gibraltar, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after a quick, reliable dolphin sighting, tours like the VIP dolphin cruise or the short Bay of Gibraltar Dolphin Cruise are perfect. For a full-day experience or private luxury, the full-day yacht or the half-day private sailing are excellent choices.
Also, think about your activity level—active water sports enthusiasts may prefer the multi-activity boat trips on the Strait, while those seeking relaxation will appreciate the private yacht options. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and boat type. Keep in mind weather conditions—dolphin sightings are more likely on calmer days.
Final Thoughts
Gibraltar’s waters offer something for every type of traveler—whether you want a family-friendly dolphin cruise, a luxurious private sailing experience, or an action-packed multi-day water adventure. For quick marine encounters, the Gibraltar: Dolphin Watch Cruise & Cable Car Fast Track Combo is a reliable and highly-rated pick. If privacy and elegance appeal, the Luxury Private Sailing Yacht options are truly special. Budget-minded travelers who want a taste of Gibraltar’s marine life should consider the shorter cruises with great reviews.
Remember, booking early and checking the weather forecast can make your water trip more enjoyable. Whatever you choose, Gibraltar’s marine environment promises unforgettable views and encounters. Now, it’s time to set sail—happy cruising!