About this experience
The Sado estuary near Setúbal is home to Portugal's only resident population of bottlenose dolphins: around 27 individuals, monitored since 1981, one of just three resident estuarine colonies in Europe. On this private full-day tour from Lisbon you join a licensed dolphin-watching boat that follows the official code of conduct, with sightings on roughly 95% of departures.
The day is built around the boat, not a checklist. After pickup at your Lisbon hotel, cruise port or the airport, stop at the Cristo Rei sanctuary for the classic view over the city and the 25 de Abril bridge, then head south across the peninsula for your boat trip on the Sado. Back on land, enjoy free time in Setúbal, where the local lunch specialty is choco frito, crispy fried cuttlefish (own expense). On the return, visit the castle above Sesimbra for clifftop Atlantic views before heading back to your accommodation.
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr–9 hr
- Private experience
What is included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- WiFi on board
- Sado dolphin-watching boat
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Driver/Guide
Not included
- Lunch
Itinerary and highlights
We begin our day trip by crossing the Tagus River, through the 25th of April Bridge (much like the San Francisco suspended bridge). Before heading onto Setúbal, we will stop at the Christ King on the south bank, and quickly admire the sheer magnitude of this monument (without entering).
A licensed boat trip on the Sado estuary to see the resident bottlenose dolphins, one of only three resident colonies in Europe
Fresh seafood in Setúbal (try the local choco frito) i
The cliffs of Cabo Espichel and Sesimbra Castle
Meeting and pickup information
- Please enter your pickup address for our offered pickup and drop-off.
Languages and tickets
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- Italian — Guide
- French — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- SWINGO by Avenidas
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Available tour options
- Pickup included
Traveller reviews and photos
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