Offers of Whale Watching Algarve

The Algarve region is a paradise of crystal-clear waters that arouses interest both among the locals and tourists, who spend part of their time exploring the spectacular natural environments hidden in the south of Portugal.

But undoubtedly, the incredible treasures are hidden in the seabed. Dolphins, orcas, whales and a large number of splendid cetaceans decide to lavish their playful personality on the Atlantic Algarve on multiple occasions. Children or adults, ready to enjoy the company of the most beautiful dolphins?

Where to go to see cetaceans in the Algarve?

Different ports and beaches in southern Portugal are the starting point of this type of experience. The marine routes to see dolphins and whales depart from coastal cities and municipalities of Faro such as Albufeira, Sagres, Alvor, Vilamoura, Portimão or Lagos... with the purpose of undertaking the search for the areas in which they live, they walk and these affectionate animals are seen.

From these locations you will leave to discover the true areas in which cetaceans hide while you pass through emblematic and natural areas of the Algarve such as the Benagil Caves or the river waters of the Formosa estuary.

Sailing through the Atlantic you can reach the Portimão Canyon. This marine enclave, of great depth, stands out for the lack of waves and strong winds, being the environment chosen by different species of dolphins to live.

Another of the most frequented spots for whale watching is Ponta da Piedade, a set of rock formations and cliffs that presents an unprecedented beauty and will undoubtedly be more surprising when dolphins reward you with their company.

And it is in the southwestern part of Portugal where another marine fissure known as the São Vicente Canyon is located. This marine environment is consolidated as a home. The most beautiful dolphins of the Atlantic await you!

When is the best time to see dolphins in the Algarve?

The Atlantic water, which bathes the southern coast of Portugal, is the habitat of 26 species of cetaceans. Being home to multiple marine mammals, whatever month of the year you decide to undertake this adventure, we are sure you can see them fiddling, jumping between the waves.

It is true that in the warmer months, specifically in spring and summer, the absence of wind and, therefore, of waves, together with the process of blooming and reproduction by the warmth of the water, attracts more species to the Algarve area. So, if you want these beautiful animals to surprise you, look for the heat too!

But don’t worry, because if your appointment in the Algarve is during the colder months, the boats that offer this type of experience will also undertake their navigation in the Atlantic looking for the permanent home of bottlenose dolphins, porpoise... and even the minke whale.

Who can participate in whale watching tours in the Algarve?

Everyone will have the opportunity to participate in this enriching experience! Who is not prepared to see the most beautiful marine mammals in the Algarve? Most boats offer their services so that families can participate in their excursions to see dolphins and whales around the boat.

We know that it is such a rewarding activity for both children and adults, so whale watching is one of the best options to enjoy family time either during a holiday or in order to disconnect from the stress of the days.

You may think that this type of activity, when carried out on the high seas, is not feasible for people who have reduced mobility because the boats are not prepared for it, but you are wrong because, usually, the boats that sail along the coast of the Algarve are perfectly equipped ships, so that everyone can see dolphins fiddling around the Atlantic. In addition, thanks to underwater windows in many of them, you can see other species such as cephalopods or large schools of fish.

How long do these tours usually last?

The companies in charge of carrying out this type of experience undertake their navigation in the Atlantic with departures of an hour or an hour and a half until three or four hours. You can choose for yourself how long you want to be on board the boat, but the longer you sail the more likely you are to spot cetaceans. Just like that!

Cetaceans do not live on the surface of the sea, on the contrary, they live in the depths, as in the aforementioned canyon of Portimão or São Vicente. Therefore, it is an experience that requires time, don’t lose your calm! Dolphins, whales... are free animals and we assure you that after awaiting, it will be worth seeing their amazing appearance.

What to wear on the day of the activity?

As you have just read, you will spend several hours at sea enjoying the enchanting marine mammals that will be hovering around the boat. Therefore, we advise you to come equipped with several items to deal with the warm sunshine of the Algarvian region such as sunglasses, a cap or hat, sun protection and water to keep you hydrated.

It is a natural attraction since it is the habitat of hundreds of them... Therefore, you should always maintain a responsible behavior because it would be counterproductive to damage your home affecting your behavior, and therefore the practice of these experiences.

If you are looking for a different alternative to get to know the environment, why not do it with the magical company of these animals?