WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING
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.
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
A VOYAGE TOWARDS AUTHENTICITY
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, and several species of dolphin — striped, common and bottlenose — also inhabit these deep and mysterious waters.
rafael verdera
SAIL, OBSERVE, TAKE PART
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. Calm days are perfect for spotting whales and dolphins. The silent sea reveals signs: a ripple, a leap, a blow on the horizon. We approach respectfully, never in haste, observing and, if nature allows, connecting. When the wind rises, we hoist the sails. The ship gathers herself, becomes so light it almost feels as though she has wings. In those moments, time dissolves into handling the sails, conversation, watch duty, open-sea swims, fishing and convivial shared meals.
rafael verdera
A CREW FOR A FEW DAYS
There are no passengers here, because everyone is part of the crew. You’ll learn to helm the ship, to read the wind, to help in the galley, and to care for the sea as it cares for us. 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.
rafael verdera
FISH, FEAST AND SAVOUR THE SEA
Out at sea, every catch is a gift. 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.
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.
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THANK YOU FOR COMING THIS FAR
NOW IT'S TIME TO STEP ABOARD
rafael verdera
LIVE THE EXPERIENCE
Everything’s ready to set sail
