WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING

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RAFAEL VERDERA

EXPLORING THE DEEP BLUE SEA

Sail the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean aboard the Rafael Verdera and immerse yourself in the magic. Witness the elegant dance of dolphins, the calls of whales, and the profound depth of the living sea. Time stands still, silence speaks, and all you have to do is listen.

Sighting expedition

7-day sighting expedition
Rafael Verdera


  • Port of departure: Palamós
  • Port of disembarkation: Palamós o Mallorca
  • Price: 2100€ per person
  • Limited places: minimum 8 · maximum 12
  • Accommodation: shared cabin
  • Full board included
  • Vegetarian/vegan options
  • Mediterranean cuisine with local produce
  • Water, teas, and coffee included

next date

July 23–30, 2026


Book now
BOOKINGS The reservation requires payment of 50% of the total amount. The remaining 50% will be paid to the captain on the day of embarkation.
CANCELLATIONS In case of cancellation, the place will be put up for sale. If it is filled, the amount will be refunded minus a 10% fee. If it is not filled, the reservation will not be refunded.
rafael verdera

WHEN THE SEA SPEAKS, WE LISTEN

Sailing aboard the Rafael Verdera isn’t just embarking on the oldest Spanish sailing vessel still cruising the Mediterranean. It’s experiencing the sea from within, just as the sailors of old once did: with reverence, silence and wonder. This is no ordinary excursion. It’s an invitation to reconnect with nature, to observe, to take an active role in sailing, and to listen to what the sea has to say. Because when nature breathes... the sea speaks. And we listen.

rafael verdera

Navigation area

We’ll set sail through the northern reaches of the Western Mediterranean: the Gulf of Lion, the Ligurian Sea, Corsica and the northern Balearic Sea.

A unique ecosystem thrives in these nutrient-rich waters, shaped by summer sunshine, coastal outcrops and the influence of the Rhône. Here, the fin whale, the second largest animal on Earth, returns to feed every summer. But it doesn’t come alone: sperm whales, pilot whales, Risso’s dolphins, Cuvier’s beaked whales,turtles and several species of dolphin — striped, common and bottlenose — also inhabit these deep and mysterious waters.

rafael verdera

How We'll Sail

Our stopovers are few but carefully chosen, often taking us to the Hyères Islands or the west coast of Corsica — although it is always the skipper who sets the course, guided by the wind, the sea and the passage.

In any case, the choice of route and ports of call depends on the skipper and his navigation plan, which will vary according to the progress of the voyage, weather conditions, fuel reserves, provisions, and other possible variables, as he is responsible for the ship and the successful completion of the voyage.

Calm days are perfect for spotting whales and dolphins because we can distinguish from a great distance any movement in the sea that could be caused by a cetacean or other animal, and with the help of binoculars, we can assess whether it is possible to get closer for a better view.

We will use the wind to sail, which makes observation more difficult in this case, but instead it seems as if the boat is gradually growing wings...

We will take advantage of the favorable wind to move to another area where we can continue observing. Time will pass between watches, maneuvers, relaxation, fishing, meals, etc.

rafael verdera

A CREW FOR A FEW DAYS

There are no passengers here, because everyone is part of the crew. Your participation, both in working with the rigging and in observation, is absolutely essential, and it will be up to you to make the sailing experience more or less magical.

rafael verdera

HOW THE EXPERIENCE WILL BE LIVED

We use traditional methods like trolling and hand-lining, bringing in fresh fish to enjoy the sea and all its bounty. It’s not just fishing: it’s a simple and genuine celebration, a shared experience with laughter, patience and good food.

On the first day, we’ll hold a safety and onboard systems briefing . From lifejackets and radio beacons to life rafts, we have everything in place so you can sail with confidence and freedom.

Going whale watching aboard the Rafael Verdera sailboat is not only a unique experience at sea, but also a journey of self-discovery. Far from cell phones and screens, every moment becomes an opportunity to connect with nature, listen to the wind, the waves, and the majestic presence of the whales. Contemplating these marine giants invites you to live fully in the present, to awaken your sensitivity and inner calm, and to rediscover the importance of authentic connection with the environment and with others.

LOGBOOK
rafael verdera

STORIES FROM ON BOARD

Every voyage has its own story. In this ship’s log, we share unique moments lived aboard the Rafael Verdera: encounters with whales and dolphins, infinite skies, shared sunrises, and emotions that only the sea can stir. Sail with us through these words.

THANK YOU FOR COMING THIS FAR

NOW IT'S TIME TO STEP ABOARD

rafael verdera

LIVE THE EXPERIENCE

Everything’s ready to set sail

    rafael verdera

    LIVE THE EXPERIENCE

    Everything’s ready to set sail

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