Day trip by boat in Canet-en-Roussillon with dolphins, swimming and barbecues Embark on a full-day sea excursion with dolphins, swimming and barbecue departing from Canet-en-Roussillon and enjoy an exceptional day in the Mediterranean.

Full-day boat trip in Canet. Sail and observe dolphins between Canet and the Côte Vermeille!

From the port of Canet-en-Roussillon, the catamaran gently leaves the quay to head out to sea and sail along the iconic landscapes of the Pyrénées-Orientales coastline. Very quickly, the coast recedes and gives way to the immensity of the Mediterranean.

As you sail, you will enjoy a unique panorama of the Catalan coast: the long sandy beaches of Canet and Argelès-sur-Mer, then further south the rocky reliefs of the Côte Vermeille which plunge into the sea.

Unique expertise for observing dolphins off the coast of Canet

Initially, this 3.5-hour coastal cruise focuses on the search for the bottlenose dolphin, an iconic species of the Mediterranean. Indeed, our statistics show an exceptional success rate, even reaching 100% sightings in 2024 and 2025. Thus, your dream of encountering these cetaceans finally becomes an achievable reality.

Furthermore, our naturalist guide provides continuous commentary throughout the excursion. Through their explanations and analyses, you'll discover the fascinating biology of dolphins, their fishing techniques, and the local measures implemented to protect them. Keep your eyes peeled for other species such as bluefin tuna, sunfish, or the impressive northern gannets…

Whatever the circumstances, we prioritize a gentle and ethical approach. It's important to know that NAVIVOILE holds the " High Quality Whale-Watching® " certification. This ensures respectful whale watching that strictly adheres to the code of conduct for wildlife.

Seeing dolphins in their natural habitat always creates a special moment. Whether in the distance or close to the boat, these unexpected encounters remain among the most precious memories of your vacation.

During the sailing trip, you simply savor the present moment . You can settle onto the nets at the front of the catamaran to admire the horizon and enjoy the unique sensation of gliding on the water off the Catalan coast.

Furthermore, you'll benefit from the expertise of our naturalist guide and ongoing activities. Therefore, to extend this introductory experience, we provide photos of the day's observations after each outing. You can download these documents directly from our drive.

Tips

The waters of the Gulf of Lion are home to exceptionally rich marine biodiversity. In this area, when conditions are right, you will undoubtedly encounter bottlenose dolphins , which regularly swim off the Catalan coast. The crew remains vigilant at all times, keeping a watchful eye out to locate and observe them without disturbing their natural behavior.

Finally, keep in mind that we encounter wild animals in their natural habitat. Although we are successful in our observations in 99% of cases on average, this element of unpredictability makes each encounter even more magical and authentic.

A short stopover in Port-Vendres, then sailing towards the Paulilles cove

First, after spending 3.5 hours searching for and observing bottlenose dolphins, the catamaran makes a brief stop of a few minutes in the port of Port-Vendres (no stop for passengers). Then, as soon as we set sail, we sail along Béar Hill to round its famous headland. At its tip, you can admire its charming pink marble lighthouse, built in 1901, and then, just south of Cap Béar, spectacular sea caves, sculpted by nature in the schist rock. Finally, we reach our anchorage in the stunning Paulilles Bay. This protected site welcomes you to an idyllic and unspoiled setting , offering a timeless escape in the heart of the Catalan coast.

Swimming in the Mediterranean

In a calm and secluded area just a few meters from the rocks, our team sets up the swimming ladders, steps, and designated swimming area. We recommend bringing a mask, fins, and snorkel to fully enjoy your snorkeling session . This way, you can discover marine life at your own pace in the protected, yet still vibrant, waters of the bay. The Cerbère/Banyuls-sur-Mer marine reserve, just a few hundred meters away, boasts truly exceptional marine life.

This cruise immerses you in the clear waters of the Mediterranean. It also allows you to soak up the sun on deck while admiring the scenery between Canet-en-Roussillon and the Côte Vermeille.

Barbecue on board!

To enhance the experience , the crew prepares grilled food on the plancha grill on board in a friendly atmosphere! You share a meal in the idyllic setting of Paulilles Bay, an authentic and timeless location.

After 3 hours at anchor it is time to hoist the sails and set course for Port-Vendres and Canet-en-Rousillon.

Between sailing, observing bottlenose dolphins, swimming and meals, this cruise offers a simple moment to enjoy the Mediterranean way of life.

The port of Canet-en-Roussillon, located a few minutes from Perpignan, allows for the most beautiful maritime getaways on the Catalan coast.

Book your cruise to observe dolphins off Canet-en-Roussillon and enjoy a barbecue and swimming in the bay of Paulilles.

Price per passenger

• Adult (from 13 years old)

  128 €

• Child (2 12 to years)

  98 €

• Child (under 2)

  Offer form

Prices shown include VAT (All Taxes Included)

⚠️ Advice for families: Due to the duration of this cruise (11h30), parents are strongly advised not to register children under 8 years old in order to guarantee their comfort and well-being on board.

High season (July and August)

• Period : From: 10 / 07 / 2026 To: 28 / 08 / 2026
• Release day: Every Friday
• Start Point: 07:30 am from Canet-en-Roussillon
• Lunch & Swimming: Anchorage in Paulilles Bay from 12:15 to 15:00 (then sailing to Port-Vendres)
• Technical stops: Port-Vendres around 11:00 am and 16:30 pm (a few minutes)
• Return: 19:00 PM in Canet-en-Roussillon

Payment methods

• Online booking : It is not mandatory to print your "order form". You can simply write down the reservation name and order number on a piece of paper.
• Accepted payment methods: Credit card (ticket office and website), Cash, (1) ANCV paper holiday vouchers (ticket office only) and (2) ANCV Connect Holiday Vouchers. Bank checks are not accepted.

(1) ANCV paper holiday vouchers:

If you are not in town, we invite you to make an online reservation by credit card. Upon boarding, you will then present your paper ANCV holiday vouchers . A few days after boarding, we will process the refund of the initial card payment (minus the 3,5% commission). Simply specify this in the "comments" section when making your reservation. In the event of a cancellation without the possibility of rescheduling, we will return your paper ANCV holiday vouchers to you.

(2) ANCV Connect Holiday Vouchers:

Available on the website or at the ticket office. In case of cruise cancellation without the possibility of rescheduling, two options are available: a voucher valid for 18 months or a refund by bank transfer (please provide your bank details) – note that a 3,5% commission will be deducted from the amount paid.

Grill menu

Menu composition: Sangria, Cold buffet (mixed and varied salads), grilled meats (Catalan sausage, squid with parsley and prawns), dessert buffet (assortment of pastries, fruit salad, etc.), bottled water, wines and coffee included during the meal.

• No substitutions/replacements of ingredients in the menu are possible.
• The menu is varied so that the passenger can choose what suits them.
• By agreeing to book this cruise, the customer agrees to accept the terms and conditions as well as the characteristics of this cruise.

Onboard Restaurant & Bar

For your comfort, a Snack-Bar and light catering service is open at all times on all our cruises.

• Regulations : In accordance with our Licence IVPersonal picnics and bringing outside drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) are not allowed on board.
• Hydration: As an exception, you are allowed to bring your own personal water bottles. Important note: The water available at the ship's toilets and water points is not potable. Fresh mineral water is available for purchase at the bar.
• By booking this cruise, the customer agrees to comply with these safety and hygiene instructions on board.

Pets

Pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are not allowed due to the length of the cruise and the catering service. Thank you for your understanding.

Swimming & Equipment

• Equipment: Don't forget your swimwear (swimsuits, towels)! We recommend you bring your snorkeling equipment on board (masks, snorkels, fins and life jackets for children).
• Swimming advice & safety: Remember to bring water sports shoes or plastic shoes! They are ideal for avoiding slipping on the wet deck when coming back on board after your swim.
• Security: Swimming is unsupervised, and we cannot be held responsible. Parents, do not leave your children in the water unattended.

What to expect & Health tips

• Equipment: Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a windbreaker. Don't forget your charged camera! Binoculars are useful for observing marine life offshore.
• Hydration: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase on board. Excessive alcohol consumption is dangerous to your health; please drink responsibly.
• Seasickness: We strongly recommend that people prone to seasickness take an anti-nausea medication (such as Mercalm 30 minutes before).

Accessibility and Family

• Accompaniment: Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
• Disability: For wheelchair users, long cruises with catering are not recommended as the toilets are not accessible (too narrow).

Safety instructions on board

• Tobacco: Smoking is prohibited on the decks. Ashtrays are available at the rear (permitted within a 2m radius). Vaping is permitted ONLY on the exterior decks.
• Behavior : Running or jumping on the nets is prohibited. Remove your shoes before going on the nets (max 6 people/net). Always hold on with one hand.
• Swimming: Not permitted while underway. Swimming with cetaceans is strictly prohibited and punishable by law. Permitted only when the boat is at anchor between 12:15 PM and 15:00 PM with the captain's authorization.

Parking in Canet-en-Roussillon

The PORT/ONIRIA car parks are the closest to the ferry terminal. They are subject to a fee in June and September (9:00-12:00 and 14:00-20:00) and in July and August (9:00-00:24) – located between 50 and 100 meters away (a 2-minute walk). The city of Canet has implemented a new mobile parking payment service using the Flowbird app . Outside of these periods, from June 1st to September 30th, the PORT/ONIRIA car parks are free.

Tips for paying less for parking from June 1st to September 30th:

• Park along theCaptain Delestrain Avenue (towards Le Brasilia campsite) then use the Pass'Port Shuttle (€0,50/trip).
• "Santorini" parking lot : Free, located 1200m from the pier (17 min walk).

⚠️ PARKING INFORMATION: During the Sea and Fishermen's Festival (August 12-15) , access and parking conditions (temporary restrictions) around the PORT/ONIRIA parking lots will be modified by municipal decree. We advise you to disregard certain signs or familiar navigation systems (especially on your GPS ) and to use the Santorin Parking lot to ensure a smooth boarding experience.

Exit conditions

• Hours: Depending on the season, departure and arrival times may vary (refer to the "Schedule" in the main menu).
• Weather & Technical: Changes may occur depending on the weather or any technical problems encountered.
• Cancellation: In the event of cancellation on our part, the outing will either be postponed or fully refunded.
• Absence : Any passenger who is absent at the precise departure time will not be reimbursed.