Savona: Exclusive nature cruise to the Pelagos Sanctuary

Imagine gliding across the soothing waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, eyes peeled for glimpses of playful dolphins or majestic whales. That’s exactly what this small-group cruise offers—an immersive, authentic peek into marine life with the chance to learn about cetaceans in their natural habitat. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it promises a balanced mix of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery.

What we love about this experience? First, the up-close view of marine mammals, thanks to the intimate boat setting and expert spotters. Second, the informative onboard cetology lesson in both Italian and English that makes the trip educational and engaging. Third, the opportunity to capture stunning photos of sea creatures in the wild. The only caveat? Since sightings depend on luck and animal behavior, there’s no guarantee of spotting dolphins or whales. Still, for lovers of nature and open-sea exploration, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for those who appreciate authentic marine encounters rather than scripted tourist shows, this cruise suits travelers eager for a laid-back, nature-focused outing. It’s particularly appealing for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to experience the Ligurian Sea’s wild side—if they’re prepared for the unpredictability of seeing cetaceans in their natural environment.

Good To Know

• Authentic wildlife sightings depend on luck, patience, and animal activity.
• The small boat size allows for a more personal experience and better viewing opportunities.
• The educational component enhances understanding of cetaceans through visual aids and expert commentary.
• The timing (3.5 hours) balances adventure with comfort—long enough for a good chance to see animals, yet not exhausting.
• Weather can influence the experience, so appropriate clothing and seasickness precautions are recommended.
• The tour offers a photo stop at Torre Leon Pancaldo, blending nature with cultural scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

Your adventure begins at Largo Marinai d’Italia near the Torretta di Savona, a convenient central spot easy to find with Google Maps. The boat departs on a 3.5-hour journey—a length carefully chosen to maximize wildlife sightings without overstaying your welcome. The excursion is hosted by BMC SEA, a reputable provider with a focus on marine conservation and education.

The Vessel and Group Size

The vessel is described as small and welcoming, offering a more intimate experience than large tour boats. This means you’ll get a closer view of the marine environment and have opportunities to participate actively in the search. While exact group numbers aren’t specified, reviews suggest a cozy, friendly atmosphere, ideal for those wanting a more personal connection with guides and marine life.

The Educational Component

One of the tour’s highlights is the visual and audio cetology lesson, which lasts approximately 40 minutes. Presented in both Italian and English, it covers the different types of cetaceans found in the Ligurian Sea, helping you distinguish dolphins from whales, and understanding their behaviors. This educational element adds value, especially for those new to marine wildlife.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Searching for Marine Life

The core of the tour is spotting cetaceans with the help of expert guides—Alessandro, Emiliano, and Ettore. They scan the water for signs of activity, such as jumping or spouting, and encourage you to assist. Reviewers appreciated the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, who made a concerted effort to find animals, even when sightings were scarce.

Timing and Sea Conditions

Most sightings reportedly occur within the first half-hour of navigation, especially in areas with high depth close to the coast. However, it’s important to remember that wild animals are unpredictable. Some reviews noted that despite the crew’s efforts, there was at least one tour where no animals appeared. Seasickness can be an issue, as the activity takes place far from the coast, in open waters. Preparation such as a light breakfast and seasickness medication, if needed, is advised.

The Scenic Stop and Cultural Touch

After the search, there’s a photo stop at Torre Leon Pancaldo, offering a chance to admire the historic tower and capture some scenic shots of Savona’s coastline. This blend of nature and culture provides a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $71 per person includes the cruise, guide, captain and crew, insurance, toilets, audio-visual aids, and entry tickets to the Pelagos Sanctuary. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing a snack or water bottle is a good idea, especially if you’re sensitive to long periods at sea.

Reviews and Real Experiences

While many reviewers praise the stunning views and the chance to see dolphins, some mention that sightings are not guaranteed. One traveler noted, “Vedere i delfini nuotare liberi accanto alla barca è stata un’emozione unica,” emphasizing how special these moments can be. Others acknowledge the effort of the crew, with one saying, “The crew made every effort to find animals,” even if they weren’t always successful.

Practical Tips

• Seasickness: If you’re prone, take precautions—light breakfast, no dairy or sweets, and seasickness pills if necessary.
• Clothing: Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate layers, as conditions can vary.
• Photography: Bring a camera with zoom capability—marine mammals can be surprisingly close, but a good zoom helps capture the moments.
• Participation: Engage with guides and be patient; wildlife watching requires a bit of calm and a lot of luck.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who value authenticity over guaranteed sightings. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, families, and those curious about marine conservation. If you’re seeking a relaxing, educational, and scenic boat trip in the Ligurian Sea, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with nature.

However, if guaranteed animal sightings are top priority or you’re extremely sensitive to the open sea, consider whether you’re prepared for the variable nature of wildlife encounters.

The Sum Up

The Savona exclusive nature cruise to the Pelagos Sanctuary offers an appealing combination of marine wildlife observation, educational insight, and scenic beauty. While the unpredictability of wild animal sightings might be a consideration, the effort and expertise of the guides, along with the chance to witness dolphins in their natural habitat, make this tour a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy genuine encounters with nature.

With a modest price point and a focus on respectful, environmentally conscious exploration, it offers good value for anyone looking to combine leisure and learning in one adventure. The tour’s relaxed pace, intimate setting, and cultural touches make it suitable for a wide range of travelers—especially those eager to see the Ligurian Sea from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the duration of the cruise?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, balancing enough time to search for marine life without becoming too tiring.

Where is the meeting point?
You’ll meet near the Torretta di Savona at Largo Marinai d’Italia, easy to locate with Google Maps by searching “BMC SEA.”

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing a snack and water is recommended.

Can I participate in spotting the animals?
Yes, guides encourage you to help with the search, and the small vessel allows everyone to get a good view.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly seasickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with health issues?
It’s suitable for most, but those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should consider the open sea environment and bring necessary precautions.

In the end, this cruise offers a genuine chance to see Ligurian marine mammals in their natural habitat, combined with educational insights and scenic vistas. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and the thrill of wildlife spotting, even if nature’s surprises mean you might not see animals every time.

You can check if your dates are available here: