Where do we step aboard?
In Setúbal you can park free at ´Rua do Clube Naval´ under the palm trees. Then walk to the waterfront, turn right to the pontoon and enter the white gate. There will find the Green Dolphin.
Please try to arrive 15 before departure.
What should I bring on board (and what not)?
Sun protection Bring sunscreen and a hat; the sun at sea is strong and reflects on the water.
Be prepared for the cool breeze of the sea. At sea it is more fresh and windy than on shore.
Photo camera Bring your camera and phone with you on the tour, but we are not responsible for any damages or losses that may happen. Be aware you are on the water: normally we sail 'dry', however there is always the possibility of the occasional splash. GoPros are highly recommended!
Swim suits We stop for swimming. Be prepared!
No food & drinks We serve drinks, coffee and snacks. However you cannot bring food or drinks on board due to safety and regulations.
Environmental Code of Conduct & flying the Blue Flag
The captain of the Green Dolphin follows and promotes these Golden Rules of the Environmental Code of Conduct. Additionally Green Dolphin preferably sails under sail, using her engine to the minimum; ; protects nature & wildlife, especially the famous dolphins of the Rio Sado; generates all the electricity needed using solar panels; uses environmental friendly products or recyclable products; and uses a minimum of fresh water.
The captain of the Green Dolphin has joined the Blue Flag programme which promotes sustainable tourism development in freshwater and marine areas to achieve high standards in a total of six categories: water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information, safety and services, social responsibility and responsible operation around wildlife.
We are proud to fly the Blue Flag!
COVID-19 and the "Clean & Safe" health standards
Green Dolphin has been certified as a “Clean & Safe” establishment. Turismo de Portugal has created the "Clean & Safe" certification to distinguish tourist activities which are compliant with hygiene and cleaning requirements for the prevention and control of COVID-19 and other possible infections, thus reinforcing the tourist's confidence in the safety of the destination.
It requires the implementation of an internal protocol for companies that, according to the recommendations of the Department of Health, ensures the necessary hygiene measures are in place to avoid risks of contagion and a guarantee of safe procedures for the operation of tourist activities.
Safety on board
Safety is a priority for the captain and crew. We always start with a safety briefing. Life jackets for all on board are available and have to be worn on when the captain's orders. Ask if you or your kids feel more comfortable wearing one.
A catamaran is a very stable sailing boat with minimal risk for sea sickness. The captain always adjusts the sailing itinerary according to the sea-state and the weather to optimise the comfort of your sailing tour.
Only children age 4 and older are allowed on board according to safety regulations.
Unfortunately the boat is not suitable for passengers in a wheelchair, any disabilities that might endanger their safety, or are over 120 kg according to safety regulations.
Do you guarantee that we'll find dolphins?
Dozens of dolphins have the Rio Sado as their home. Thanks to the experienced of the crew, dolphins are sighted in most of the tours. Sometimes due to the sea conditions it's very hard to spot dolphins.
We can’t guarantee to see them since the dolphins are wild and not fed, so there’s always a small chance we don’t manage to find them. However, the boat tour itself is already worth it!
Can we swim?
We stop for swimming. Be prepared!
Swimming is allowed when the boat has dropped anchor and after the captain & crew have assessed the safety for swimming. Normally we drop anchor in a comfortable spot. However the circumstances depend on the sea-state, wind, waves and current.
Rescheduling & Cancellation policy
We do not charge a fee if you change the dates of an existing booking, as long as the request is received by us more than 3 days ahead of your confirmed travel date. If you request a date change within 3 days or less of your confirmed travel date, we will attempt to honor your request; but these changes may be subject to an additional fee.
If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure of your sea experience, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel between 3 and 6 days in advance of the scheduled sea experience, there is a 50% cancellation fee. When cancelling within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100% cancellation fee.
The boat tours are always subject to the weather and sea conditions. And there is a minimum of four guests to be able to sail out. If we expect the tour to be cancelled, we will get in touch with you on the evening before your tour to reschedule your tour.
Occasionally it may happen that the tours are cancelled last minute. We’re sorry but this may happen. You’ll always be 100% refunded.
