Seeing dolphins near Collioure and Port-Vendres cruise with a stopover departing from Canet-en-Roussillon

Watching dolphins on the Côte Vermeille from a boat

For approximately 3.5 hours , our vessel cruises along the coast between Argelès-sur-Mer, Port-Vendres, and Collioure . We regularly encounter bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in this prime location. In fact, in recent years, our outings have achieved an average 99% sighting rate, even reaching 100% in 2024-2025.

Dating statistics

We set out to encounter free and wild animals across a vast expanse. The remaining 1% reminds us that nature still reigns supreme, making each observation all the more remarkable.

A unique nature experience in the Mediterranean

During the cruise, you'll also observe other marine species such as shearwaters , gannets , sunfish , and bluefin tuna. In addition, a naturalist guide will personally accompany you to share insights into the biology and behavior of dolphins.

Furthermore, we offer participants the opportunity to download dolphin sighting photos free of charge a few days after their sea excursion , which will be made available on our drive.

Stopover in Collioure and Port-Vendres

As soon as the dolphin watching is over, the catamaran sets course for Port-Vendres.

Upon arrival, a member of the crew will escort you to the tourist train . From Port-Vendres, the train travels along the quays of the port before taking the coastal road to Collioure. This scenic journey offers magnificent views of the sea and the rugged coastline, while also providing historical commentary.

In just 15 minutes, you'll reach the heart of the village of Collioure. Finally, enjoy a free stop of approximately 4.5 hours to explore this iconic village on the Catalan coast, voted the most beautiful village in France in 2024.

This way, you can stroll through the narrow streets, visit the port and its historical monuments, enjoy the beaches or taste local specialties.

Practical information

• • Start time : port of Canet-en-Roussillon
• • Dolphin watching : about 3h30
• • Stopover in Collioure : about 4h30

Our team carefully organizes this seamless seaside getaway . It allows you to discover the jewel of the Côte Vermeille in a different way, avoiding the traffic congestion and overcrowded parking lots of Collioure.

Panoramic views and vineyards: return to Port-Vendres by tourist train

As soon as you finish your free time in the heart of the village of Collioure, you board the little tourist train again. This journey takes you to Port-Vendres via a picturesque route through the terraced vineyards.

Furthermore, during this land journey , you'll admire unique views of listed monuments such as Fort Dugommier. The train also makes a brief stop at the foot of Fort Saint-Elme. This historic monument majestically overlooks the bay, the Roussillon plain , and the rugged coastline.

Finally, on the other side of the hill, you will discover a panoramic view of the commercial port of Port-Vendres, extending to Cap Cerbère and the first foothills of Spain.

When the little train stops in the port of Port-Vendres, all you have to do is walk back in a few minutes to the Navivoile pier which awaits you along the Jean Moulin quay.

Dolphin watching area on the Vermilion Coast

This dolphin watching cruise travels along the Radiant and Vermilion Coast, between several iconic sites of the Catalan coastline:

• • Canet-en-Roussillon (port of departure)
• • Port of Saint-Cyprien
• • Argelès-sur-Mer
• • Port-Vendres
• • Collioure
• • Banyuls-sur-Mer
• • Cerbère

In summary, the biological richness of this area of ​​the Gulf of Lion attracts and retains bottlenose dolphins.

• • Where to see dolphins near Collioure?
  Dolphins are a regular visitor to the Catalan coastline, particularly the area off the Côte Vermeille. That's why our nature cruises make it easy to observe them in their natural environment.
• • Can you see dolphins in Port-Vendres?
  Yes, bottlenose dolphins are often found in the waters of the Gulf of Lion. In fact, our dedicated sea excursions almost always lead to sightings of them 99% of the time.
• • Is it possible to swim with dolphins in Roussillon?
  No. In fact, a 2021 ministerial decree now prohibits approaching within 100 meters of a marine mammal in marine protected areas. Swimming with a dolphin disrupts the animals' natural behavior and also promotes the transmission of pathogens.
• • What is the best time to see dolphins in Collioure?
  The most favorable period extends from spring to the end of summer, especially when dolphins are active near the coasts.

Please note that places on board our catamaran are still limited.

Book your cruise to see the dolphins near Collioure and Port-Vendres.

Price per passenger

• Adult (from 13 years old)

  89 €

• Child (2 12 to years)

  65 €

• Child (under 2)

  Offer form

Prices shown include VAT (All Taxes Included)

Optional "ultra-compact" stroller rental (during the stopover in Collioure): €8

(To be selected during your booking, subject to availability)

⚠️ Advice for families: Due to the length of this cruise (11.5 hours), parents are strongly advised not to book children under 8 years old to ensure their comfort and well-being on board. Consider shorter bottlenose dolphin watching trips (4 or 5 hours) or the cruise with stops in Port-Vendres and Collioure.

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
• Stopover: Port-Vendres and Collioure from 11:00 am to 17:00 pm (transit by small train included)
• 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.

On board the little train (Port-Vendres / Collioure)

• Child safety: For safety reasons in case of emergency braking, children under 4 years old must travel on a parent's lap.
• Luggage : Large bags are not allowed on board the little train (coolers, suitcases, etc.). Only backpacks and handbags are permitted.
• Strollers: Strollers are not allowed on board (including umbrella strollers). "Ultra-compact" models can be rented when you book (subject to availability).
• Mobility: The little train from Port-Vendres / Collioure is not able to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
• Animals : Dogs over 3 kg are prohibited. Only small dogs transported in a suitable bag are permitted.

"Ultra-compact" stroller rental

Since traditional strollers are not allowed on the little train, we highly recommend renting our ultra-compact models (30 x 18 x 35 cm – 4,3 kg).

• Features: Converts from stroller to folded mode in seconds. Guinness World Records certified model.
• Use : Ideal for a stopover in Collioure. They can be stored under the seat or on your lap in the little train.
• Specifications: For children from approximately 6 months to 4 years old (max 17 kg). Adjustable harness and shopping basket included. Price: 8€.

Deposit for stroller rental

You can choose between a €130 security deposit check or a credit card authorization, which is required at boarding. Your deposit will be fully refunded if no issues are found upon return.

The deposit is retained in the event of:

• Loss or theft during the stopover.
• Damage (missing parts, torn/burned fabrics, damaged folding mechanism).
• Any anomaly that jeopardizes the child's safety.

Note: In case of accident during rental, NAVIVOILE cannot be held responsible for bodily injury or property damage.

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).

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.

Accessibility and Family

• Accompaniment: Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
• Disability: For wheelchair users, longer cruises are not recommended as the toilets are not accessible (too narrow). The little train between Port-Vendres and Collioure is not equipped to carry wheelchairs and walkers.

Pets

Pets (dogs, cats, etc.) weighing less than 3 kg are welcome. Only pets transported in a suitable carrier are permitted on board the Port-Vendres/Collioure tourist train. The journey is manageable for your small companions.

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 (max 6 people/net). Always hold on with one hand.
• Swimming: Not permitted. Swimming with cetaceans is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.

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

• Weather & Technical: Changes may occur depending on the weather or technical problems.
• Cancellation: The outing will be postponed or fully refunded in case of cancellation on our part.
• Absence : No refund will be given for absences at the departure time.