WORLDWIDE

Best Dolphin and Wildlife Eco Tours — Our Top 15

27 tours  ·  from $29 a head

Eco on a listing usually means a licence, a distance rule and a smaller boat. These 15 say which of those the operator actually holds, what else surfaces alongside the dolphins, and what it costs.

Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise - A roomy catamaran, not a cramped wildlife boat
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Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise

1.Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,143 reviews · from $80Our pick

Spend two hours aboard a roomy catamaran with Akaroa Dolphins, looking for rare Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, white-flippered penguins, and seabirds. Local skippers such as George and Joe provide commentary, while dolphin-spotting dog Albie helps scan the water. A New Zealand drink and family-recipe cookie are included.

“Highly recommend this trip. Super friendly and knowledgeable staff who ensure you have a great time (thanks for the spare coat team!) and a comfortable boat. We loved seeing the seals swimming alongside and several dolphin sightings - the mum and baby were a definite bonus.”

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Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise - Searching the Hauraki Gulf for dolphins and whales
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Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise

2.Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,072 reviews · 4h 30m · from $130

Sail from Auckland’s Berth 9 aboard the 65-foot Dolphin Explorer for a 4.5-hour search for orcas, bottlenose dolphins, whales, seabirds, and penguins. Marine scientists provide commentary and conduct research during the trip. The boat is comfortable but not wheelchair accessible, and a free return cruise is offered if no marine mammals appear.

“10/10, got to see a few whales, several pods of dolphins, and lots of blue penguins and shearwaters. Would absolutely recommend!”

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Cocoa Beach Dolphin and Wildlife Tour - Through the Thousand Islands mangroves
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Cocoa Beach Dolphin and Wildlife Tour

3.Cocoa Beach Dolphin and Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,052 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $47

Cruise the Cocoa Beach Thousand Islands and Banana River with a captain and certified naturalist, such as Diane, Rusty, Rich, or Pat. Expect a relaxed two-hour eco tour, onboard restrooms, wheelchair access, and chances to see wild dolphins, manatees, turtles, birds, and mangrove plants. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

“We saw a lot of Dolphins, and the tour guides were very knowledgeable about the area. Wouldn’t recommend morning if it’s in the summertime.”

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Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine - Guides who keep the ride lively
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Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine

4.Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 864 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $29Best value

Join guides such as Kevin, Katrina, Dean, or Sarah aboard the shaded 45-foot Osprey pontoon boat. You’ll cruise St. Augustine’s estuaries for about 90 minutes, watching for dolphins, birds, manatees, and sea turtles while passing the lighthouse, Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos, and Great Cross. A bar, restroom, free parking, and live commentary add ease.

“What a wonderful tour! We saw so many dolphins and the crew was very knowledgeable. I learned so much and they were all very kid friendly, my kids had so many questions. They entertained my kids and had knowledgeable about conservation efforts. We visited with my family and celebrated a birthday in St. Augustine and this was great. There is so much to learn and you can twll that they love what they do. We had a great time and will use them again. Highly recommended!”

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Key West: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Eco Cruise Tour - Meeting the boat in downtown Key West
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Key West: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Eco Cruise Tour

5.Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Eco Cruise Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 757 reviews · 3 hours · from $79

Set out from Captain’s Corner Dive Center with Fury Water Adventures on a three-hour catamaran trip. You’ll search for bottlenose dolphins, snorkel near the Key West Wildlife Refuge, and enjoy water, sodas, beer, wine, or seasonal champagne. Guides such as Liv, Lisa, Nicole, and Ally have been praised for calm instruction and friendly care.

“The guides were fantastic, very welcoming, knowledgeable and supportive, especially Liv who ensured we made the most of the experience despite our nerves!”

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Faro: Dolphin and Wildlife Watching in the Atlantic Ocean - The open-water search takes patience
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Faro: Dolphin and Wildlife Watching in the Atlantic Ocean

6.Dolphin and Wildlife Watching in the Atlantic Ocean

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 637 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $76

Join Ocean Vibes Algarve in Faro for a 2.5-hour wildlife trip led by marine biologists such as Miguel, Pedro, and Ines. Cruise through Ria Formosa to the Atlantic, where dolphins live year-round and whales may appear from February to May. Expect a fast, bumpy ride, expert animal tracking, and up to 30 minutes watching a pod.

“The tour "Dolphin and Wildlife watching in the Atlantic Ocean" was an amazing experience! Even though my boyfriend and I showed up late due to traffic the guide waited for us with the group and was super nice about it. She was very knowledgeable and told us a lot about the dolphins. We learned a lot! We saw two species of dolphins and they were very close which was so special! Our guide really respected the fact that we were only allowed to watch one pod for max. half an hour (that is doesn't stress the animals) and this was nice to see. The boat ride was fun and we…”

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Small Group Dolphin and Wildlife Watching Tour in Faro - More than dolphins: whales, turtles, birds, and sunfish
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Small Group Dolphin and Wildlife Watching Tour in Faro

7.Small Group Dolphin and Wildlife Watching Tour in Faro

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 578 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $66

Set out from Faro in a nine-person RIB with marine biologists such as Diogo, Pedro, Miguel, and Susanne. Cruise through Ria Formosa to the Atlantic, watching for dolphins, whales, porpoises, turtles, sunfish, seabirds, and more. Expect a fast, open-water ride, careful wildlife rules, and about two and a half hours on the water.

“I am very picky about what company’s I pick when it comes to animal activities. But this company seemed like the right one, and that was absolutely true. The biologists were very kind, professional and fun. They could tell us alot about the different species that live in the water, and it was amazing to have someone on board that knew alot about orcas. When we found an pod of dolphins they kept an respectable distance and gave the animals the choice to themselves to approach us. They didnt but I did not mind at all. We stayed with the pod for the 30 minutes that was allowed. Awesome to…”

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2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour from Orange Beach - Birds and Plant Life Along the Creeks
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2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour from Orange Beach

8.2-Hour Dolphin and Nature Eco Tour from Orange Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 534 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $37

Board the Explorer at The Wharf in Orange Beach for a 2-hour cruise through shallow creeks and back bays. The captain and crew point out dolphins, osprey, herons, eagles, hawks, and local plant life. The boat carries up to 36 people, has a full-service cocktail bar, and guarantees dolphin sightings or your next trip is free.

“The crew is very interactive with both the guests and the dolphins. They seem to be very knowledgeable.”

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Snubfin Dolphin Eco Cruise from Broome - What the search through Roebuck Bay feels like
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Snubfin Dolphin Eco Cruise from Broome

9.Snubfin Dolphin Eco Cruise from Broome

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 533 reviews · from $110

Set out aboard Ballena, Broome’s dedicated eco-tour vessel, for a 4-hour-15-minute cruise through Roebuck Bay. Guides such as John, Cam, and Jess explain the marine life while you search for snubfin and bottlenose dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and birds. Snacks, refreshments, restrooms, shaded decks, and a possible boom-net swim are included.

“Great tour, seen snubfin dolphins, small and big sea turtles, sea snake, small shark and bottle nose dolphins. Crew were friendly and very informative. Would recommend to do the tour”

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Dolphin Watching/Eco Cruise, John's Pass, Madeira Bch, FL - Watching dolphins in Madeira Beach waters
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Dolphin Watching/Eco Cruise, John’s Pass, Madeira Bch, FL

10.Dolphin Watching/Eco Cruise, John’s Pass, Madeira Bch, FL

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 529 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $31

Set out from John's Pass with Dolphin Quest for a 90-minute eco cruise along Madeira Beach and St. Pete Bay. Guides such as Captain Steve, Captain Jim, Kirsten, and Grace point out bottlenose dolphins, manatees, waterfront homes, boats, and local sights. The boat holds up to 35 people and has a restroom, snacks, and drinks for sale.

“We saw a lot of dolphins Kirsten was really knowledgeable and answered all our questions She was also friendly and funny We had a wonderful time”

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Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise - Setting out with George, Elsa, and the dolphin dogs
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Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

11.Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 440 reviews · 2 hours · from $77

Spend two hours on Akaroa Dolphins’ stable, low-lying catamaran with skipper George, Elsa, and a dolphin-spotting dog such as Albie or Wilbur. You’ll search for wild Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins, seabirds, sea caves, and volcanic formations while hearing local history. A drink and homemade cookies are included.

“Nice excursion! We saw some dolphins and few seals during this 2 hours cruise in Akaroa.”

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Pula: Brijuni Islands Dolphin Watching & Wildlife Cruise - Brijuni National Park From the Sea
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Pula: Brijuni Islands Dolphin Watching & Wildlife Cruise

12.Brijuni Islands Dolphin Watching & Wildlife Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 434 reviews · 3 hours · from $55

Sail from Pula along the coast toward Fažana and Brijuni National Park while a multilingual guide explains the sea and islands. Use onboard binoculars to look for dolphins, then watch the sunset from the water with unlimited white wine, mineral water, and soft drinks. Dinner is optional and ordered before departure.

“It was really great boat tour! We saw many dolphins and had tasty dinner onboard with drinks included. Guide told us about places we saw on the way. Lovely!”

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Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour from Hubbard's Marina in John's Pass - Boarding at Hubbard’s Marina in John’s Pass
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Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour from Hubbard’s Marina in John’s Pass

13.Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour from Hubbard’s Marina in John’s Pass

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 402 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $29

Cruise the calm waters near John’s Pass and Madeira Beach aboard Hubbard’s Marina’s Big Blue Boat. Your captain and crew share facts about dolphins, birds, local homes, boats, and beach history while searching for wildlife. The 90-minute trip has restrooms, indoor and outdoor seating, and snacks and drinks for sale.

“Easy walk up. Lots of food and shopping around dock area to enjoy before it after your cruise. Captain very knowledgeable about the area. We saw dolphins as promised but didn't expect a show like at all aquarium. Dolphins did what dolphins do!!!! We saw manatees too.”

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Epic Kayak With Dolphins & Wildlife - 4WD Beach Adventure Noosa - Arriving at Double Island Point
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Epic Kayak With Dolphins & Wildlife – 4WD Beach Adventure Noosa

14.Epic Kayak With Dolphins & Wildlife – 4WD Beach Adventure Noosa

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 366 reviews · from $115

Ride a 4WD along Noosa North Shore and Great Beach Drive, cross by ferry, then kayak around Double Island Point with guides such as Vince, Tyron, Cam, and Nick. Expect coastal scenery, wildlife searches, swimming, snacks, and instruction. Dolphins and whales are possible, but never guaranteed.

“Our guides Cam and Nick were amazing. Unfortunately other than one Dorsal fin we didn’t see any animals but the place is so incredible and the guides were great that the kayaking experience by itself was worth the trip. We had rough enough conditions so wasn’t for the faint hearted or poor swimmers, and was a little sea sick inducing for some. Over all a great day out.”

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Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour - Following dolphin habitat toward Cape Henry
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Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour

15.Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 351 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $68

Meet Chesapean Outdoors at North End Beach for a two-hour guided kayak trip along Virginia Beach. You’ll use a stable sit-on-top kayak, learn basic safety, and paddle through dolphin habitat toward Cape Henry Lighthouse. Guides such as Matt, Jack, Declan, and Tommy are known for helping mixed-ability groups and sharing facts about dolphins, birds, and local history.

“The tour guides were wonderful and we saw many dolphin pods during our tour! The bay was serene and the whole experience was informative and breathtaking.”

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New in Dolphin and Wildlife Eco Tours

★ 4.6Algarve Dolphin Watching & Marine Life Eco TourFrom $6447 reviews
★ 5.0Akaroa: Wildlife Cruise with Dolphins and PenguinsFrom $7727 reviews
★ 5.0Private Guided Sunset and Eco Tour up to 6 Passengers74 reviews
★ 5.0Guided Sunset and Eco Tour Non Private in Destin, FLFrom $3459 reviews
★ 5.0Private Sunset and Eco Tour in Destin-Up to 16 Guests41 reviews
★ 4.7Whale & Dolphin Watching | Best Wildlife TourFrom $8255 reviews

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Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours114Dolphin and Manatee Tours14Dolphin Watching with a Marine Biologist17Dolphin Watching Cruises139
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Where to see dolphins

Pick a coast, a boat or a swim.

From the deck

Dolphin CruisesWhales and DolphinsSunset SailingsCatamaransRIBs and Speedboats

In the water

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Smaller boats

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Other ways

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