Sesimbra: Guided Dolphin Watching in Arrábida Natural Park

Sesimbra, a charming coastal town in Portugal, offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the marine life of the Arrábida Natural Park. Set out on a guided dolphin watching tour and learn about the beauty of these magnificent creatures as they frolic in the pristine waters of the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park. Complemented by the chance to swim at nearby beaches and savor traditional local delicacies, this 3-hour adventure promises an immersive connection with nature. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, this tour presents a captivating glimpse into the wonders that await beyond Sesimbra’s shores.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Guided Tours In Sesimbra.

Key Points

• 3-hour guided dolphin watching tour in Arrábida Natural Park, offering a chance to see local dolphins and explore the nearby beaches.
• Tour is priced from £46.24 per person and accessible to wheelchair users, available in Portuguese, English, and French.
• Guided tour in Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, with the season running from April 1st to October 31st.
• Meeting point is at the Diving Center Megadive in Sesimbra, with the location being a 45-minute drive from Lisbon and accessible by public transport.
• Opportunity to swim at nearby wild beaches and savor a traditional sweet from Sesimbra, with life jackets and snorkeling gear provided for safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Details

The dolphin watching tour in Arrábida Natural Park offers a 3-hour guided experience, priced from £46.24 per person.

The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and available in Portuguese, English, and French.

Participants can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes life jackets, snorkeling masks, a traditional sweet from Sesimbra, water, and a hot shower.

While food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included, the tour does provide insurance coverage.

Visitors can expect to feel the ocean breeze and capture stunning photos of dolphins against the natural coastal backdrop.

Swimming at nearby beaches is also part of the adventure.

Experience Highlights

What better way to experience the beauty of Arrábida Natural Park than on an ocean adventure? Feel the wind and sea spray as you watch local dolphins frolic in the waves, capturing stunning photos with the natural coastal backdrop.

This guided dolphin-watching tour allows you to explore the protected waters of the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, while enjoying the region’s stunning natural scenery.

Take a break to swim at nearby beaches, and savor a traditional sweet from Sesimbra as you take in the sights and sounds of this unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the chance to encounter these magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Full Description

This guided dolphin watching tour takes you to the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, where you’ll soak in the stunning views of the Sesimbra coast and the Arrábida Natural Park backdrop. You’ll have the chance to watch local dolphins frolic in the waves and capture stunning photos of them against the natural scenery. The tour also includes a stop at nearby wild beaches for a refreshing swim break. The season for this experience runs from April 1st to October 31st, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. Remember, as dolphins are wild animals, sightings are not guaranteed, but the beauty of the surrounding landscape is sure to impress.

Season	Meeting Point	What to Bring
April 1st – October 31st	Diving Center Megadive	Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes

Important Information

Where can travelers meet for the dolphin watching tour?
At the Diving Center Megadive.

Participants should also bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.

It’s important to note that this activity takes place in a natural setting, so visitors mustn’t litter or touch the marine life.

While the tour aims to spot dolphins, sightings aren’t guaranteed as they’re wild animals.

However, the stunning coastal scenery and opportunity to swim at nearby beaches make this adventure worthwhile.

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Customer Reviews

Based on the provided information, the customer reviews for the guided dolphin watching tour in Arrábida Natural Park are generally positive. Travelers across a range of demographics, including couples, groups of friends, solo explorers, and families, have shared their experiences with this outdoor adventure.

A single verified review from a GetYourGuide traveler in Portugal gives the activity a 4 out of 5 rating, suggesting a satisfying overall experience. While specific details are limited, the review highlights the opportunity to witness dolphins in their natural habitat and capture stunning photos against the scenic coastal backdrop.

With a cancellation policy that allows for free changes up to 24 hours in advance, the activity seems well-suited for a variety of adventurous visitors.

Getting There

To reach the starting point for the guided dolphin watching tour, visitors can head to the Diving center Megadive, which serves as the designated meeting point. The center is located in the charming seaside town of Sesimbra, just a short drive from the Arrábida Natural Park.

Getting there couldn’t be easier:

• By car: Sesimbra is about a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, with easy access via the A2 motorway.

• By public transport: Buses and trains connect Sesimbra to major cities, making it a convenient option for those without a personal vehicle.

• By taxi or rideshare: For a hassle-free arrival, visitors can arrange for a taxi or use a ridesharing service from their starting point.

• On foot: For those staying nearby, the Diving center Megadive is an easy walk from many hotels and accommodations in Sesimbra.

• With a tour: Some tour packages include roundtrip transportation, eliminating the need to worry about getting to the meeting point.

What to Expect

Participants on the guided dolphin watching tour can expect an exhilarating ocean adventure, where they’ll feel the wind and sea spray as they search for these fascinating marine mammals.

The tour includes the use of snorkeling gear, so guests can get up close to the dolphins and capture stunning photos of them against the natural backdrop of the Arrábida Natural Park.

After the dolphin sighting, the group will stop at nearby beaches for a refreshing swim. While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour provides the opportunity to explore the coastal scenery and enjoy the thrill of being on the open water.

With experienced guides leading the way, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount on the guided dolphin watching tour, with measures in place to ensure guests’ well-being. Life jackets and snorkeling gear are provided, and experienced guides closely monitor the group throughout the excursion.

The dolphin viewing takes place in the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, a protected natural area where wildlife is strictly observed from a respectful distance. Guests are advised to:

• Avoid littering or touching the marine life
• Stay within designated swimming areas during breaks
• Apply sunscreen and wear suitable clothing
• Follow all instructions from the knowledgeable guides
• Remain cautious and alert when in and around the ocean

With these safety considerations in mind, visitors can fully enjoy the captivating dolphin watching experience while exploring the stunning Arrábida Natural Park coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Activity?

The average group size for this dolphin watching tour is not explicitly stated. However, as it caters to couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and families, the group size likely ranges from small intimate groups to larger family gatherings.

Do I Need Prior Experience for the Dolphin Watching?

No prior experience is required for the dolphin watching activity. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced participants. The tour includes safety equipment and a guided experience, so anyone can enjoy watching the dolphins in their natural habitat.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography?

The dolphin watching tour allows guests to freely take photos during the experience. However, visitors are not permitted to touch or disturb the marine life. Respecting the dolphins’ natural environment is emphasized for an enjoyable and responsible wildlife encounter.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

You’re generally allowed to bring your own snacks and drinks on this activity. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator first, as there may be some restrictions. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing your own is an option.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There doesn’t appear to be a minimum age requirement specified for this activity. However, it’s noted that the tour is suitable for families, so children of all ages are likely welcome to participate with appropriate supervision.

Recap

Set out on a captivating dolphin watching tour in Sesimbra’s Arrábida Natural Park. Witness these majestic creatures frolicking in their natural habitat, and complement the experience with a swim at nearby beaches and traditional sweets.

This 3-hour adventure offers an immersive connection with nature while providing stunning photo opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to create unforgettable memories during your ocean exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: