Wild Shores & Creative Afternoons

It begins at the marina with a dolphin watching cruise into the Strait of Gibraltar — one of the most dolphin-rich stretches of water in Europe, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. Resident common and bottlenose dolphins are spotted on the vast majority of trips, often swimming directly alongside the boat. On a good day, pods of up to 200 can surround you entirely. Occasionally guests also spot turtles, sunfish, pilot whales and shoals of bright blue flying fish being chased by dolphins. For many younger guests, it becomes the highlight of the entire holiday.

From the marina, it's a short 10-minute walk to Gibraltar's only craft studio with its own kiln — a genuinely local, independent business tucked inside the ICC building beside Casemates Square. Choose from a range of Gibraltar-inspired ceramic models — the Rock, local landmarks, characters — and paint it your own way, at your own pace. No experience needed. The studio was set up by a local who couldn't find quality craft supplies in Gibraltar, and has since become one of the Rock's most loved creative spaces.

Choose a same-day painted finish if you're visiting briefly — perfect for day-trippers and cruise guests. Or opt for a kiln-fired glazed finish for a more permanent, polished result, ready to collect 2–3 days later.

• 12:30pm
  Dolphin Watching Cruise — Meet at the marina. Arrive 10 minutes before departure. Approximately 1hr 25min on the Strait of Gibraltar.
• ~2:00pm
  Cruise Returns — 10-minute walk to the ceramics studio beside Casemates Square.
• From 2:15pm
  Ceramics Session — Flexible drop-in session at the ICC studio. Studio open until 4:30pm, last entry 3:30pm. Most sessions last 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
• Same day or 2–3 days
  Take Your Ceramic Home — Same-day painted finish to take immediately, or kiln-fired glazed finish ready to collect 2–3 days later.
• After your session
  The Rest of the Day is Yours — You're right in the heart of Gibraltar. Casemates Square is on your doorstep. On a nice day, Campion Park or Commonwealth Park are both short walks and great for families. Fancy the beach? Catalan Bay is one of Gibraltar's most popular beaches and just a short taxi or bus ride away. Staying into the evening? Ocean Village Marina is a 10-minute walk with plenty of family-friendly dining options.

• Dolphin watching cruise — approx. 1hr 25min from the marina
• Live commentary from an on-board marine biologist
• Ceramic painting session at the ICC studio beside Casemates Square
• Choice of Gibraltar-inspired ceramic models
• Choice of same-day painted or kiln-fired glazed finish
• All activity fees included — nothing to pay on the day

• Will we definitely see dolphins?
  Sightings are very frequent thanks to resident pods in the Strait of Gibraltar. While wildlife can never be guaranteed, the vast majority of cruises encounter dolphins — often swimming close to the boat. Pods of up to 200 have been spotted. Occasionally guests also see turtles, sunfish, pilot whales and flying fish.
• What age is the ceramics suitable for?
  Suitable for all ages. The Gibraltar-themed models naturally appeal to children, but adults enjoy it just as much.
• Can we take the ceramic home the same day?
  Yes — if you choose the same-day painted finish. The kiln-fired glazed option requires 2–3 days before collection.
• What if we're only in Gibraltar for the day?
  The same-day finish is designed specifically for short stays — paint it, let it dry, and take it with you.
• How long does the ceramics session take?
  Most guests spend 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on how detailed they want to be. There's no rush.
• Is the walk between activities manageable with young children?
  Yes — it's under 10 minutes on flat ground through Gibraltar's town centre, passing Casemates Square.
• Do we need to book the ceramics separately?
  No — your Hidden Gibraltar booking covers everything. Simply arrive after your cruise.