Tenerife: Sailing Excursion with Whale and Dolphin Watching

If you’ve been eyeing a way to combine stunning scenery, marine wildlife, and a relaxing sail, this Tenerife tour might just catch your eye. It’s a 3-hour voyage on a lovely yacht, designed to give you a taste of the island’s southern coastline while looking out for whales, dolphins, and even turtles.

It’s a trip many seem to enjoy for its intimate atmosphere, guides, and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see pilot whales and dolphins up close, and the chance to swim or snorkel in a quiet, secluded bay. The crew’s friendly attitude and the boat’s comfortable setting really stand out. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the trip doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation.

This is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, no-pressure outing and aren’t fussed about being on a larger group or in a crowded boat.

This tour tends to suit those who appreciate wildlife encounters, scenic sailing, and a laid-back vibe. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even on your own, it offers a nice balance of adventure and relaxation, all wrapped up in a modest 3-hour window. Now, let’s dig into what makes this sail so appealing — and what you should be prepared for.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are the highlight, with frequent sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and even turtles.
• The sailing yacht provides a calm, scenic platform for viewing and relaxing on the water.
• Snorkeling in a secluded bay offers a refreshing break and a chance to see underwater life.
• Snacks and drinks, including fresh fruit, sandwiches, and beverages, are included, adding to the laid-back vibe.
• The tour is short but sweet, great for those with limited time or looking for a gentle ocean experience.
• No hotel pickup means you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

This 3-hour trip is designed to balance wildlife spotting, leisure, and a touch of adventure. Once you arrive at the dock—specifically at the Pantalán number zero at Puerto Colón—you’ll meet your crew and receive a brief overview of the day’s plan.

From there, you’ll head out onto a 52-foot sailing yacht, which feels like a good size: not too crowded, but enough space for everyone to relax comfortably.

The boat itself is often described as beautiful and well-maintained, with a calm atmosphere that encourages unwinding. Many reviews mention the friendly and knowledgeable crew, who share plenty of information about Tenerife’s marine life and ensure everyone feels comfortable. The boat’s open deck is great for catching the sun, taking photos, or simply soaking in the views of the southern coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Wildlife Watching Experience

The star of this trip is undoubtedly the chance to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment. According to many reviews, the crew does a great job finding the most active areas and stopping the engine to avoid disturbing the animals. Some travelers have remarked how close the whales come to the boat, especially when the engine is turned off—creating a memorable moment.

One reviewer shared, “We saw beautiful whales and swam in an amazing bay,” indicating that sightings can be plentiful and varied. The crew also points out where to look for dolphins, and some lucky guests have seen turtles as well. The animal encounters are the big draw, and from all accounts, they tend to be frequent and impressive.

Snorkeling and Swimming in a Secluded Bay

After some wildlife watching, the captain will usually anchor in a tranquil, hidden bay. This pause gives everyone the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the boat. Basic snorkeling equipment is provided, though some guests might prefer to bring their own gear for a more comfortable fit.

This part of the trip is often highlighted as a favorite, with reviewers describing the waters as “gorgeous blue” and the bay as “secluded and peaceful.” It’s a refreshing break, especially after hours on the water, and many find the chance to cool off and enjoy the marine scenery worthwhile.

Food and Drinks on Board

Complimentary snacks and drinks are included in the price—an appreciated touch on a trip of this length. Expect fresh fruits, sandwiches, and a selection of beverages such as beers, cava, wine, soft drinks, and juices. Several reviews mention how satisfying and well-curated the onboard provisions are, adding to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

You can toast the experience with a cold drink or enjoy some fruit amid the beautiful surroundings. The crew makes a point to keep everyone refreshed and comfortable, which makes the trip feel more like a friendly boat party than a formal tour.

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Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with start times varying depending on availability, so it’s best to check ahead. You’re advised to arrive 15 minutes early, and the meeting point is at the port’s Pantalán zero, with the search term “Miishi Restaurant” helping you locate the dock easily.

Note that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to Puerto Colón independently. Parking at the port costs around 1 euro per hour, which is worth considering if you’re driving. The boat is wheelchair accessible and has multilingual guides, offering options in English, Spanish, French, and Italian.

What to bring? Essentials include sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a sun hat. The boat policy prefers barefoot onboard unless you have health issues, so pack accordingly. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture the whales, dolphins, and stunning coastline.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew who go out of their way to make the experience special. “Our skipper was extremely welcoming and very knowledgeable,” one traveler shared, emphasizing how the guides enhance the trip. Several mention how close the whales came, with some even stopping the engine to avoid interrupting their natural behavior.

A common theme is how intimate and relaxing the trip feels. With only a few guests onboard, you’re less likely to be part of a crowded tour, making it easier to focus on wildlife and enjoy the scenery.

One review from a family notes that the waters were calm and great for kids, while another warned about some motion sickness if waves are high. Overall, most guests find the trip suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat, especially those who enjoy gentle sailing and marine wildlife.

At $85 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the inclusions and what’s on offer. The combination of wildlife sightings, a scenic sail, snorkeling, and snacks makes it a fair deal. Guests frequently mention how the experience exceeded expectations, especially given the small group vibe, friendly guides, and plentiful wildlife encounters.

Compared to larger, more commercial trips, this tour feels more personal and relaxed. It’s not about rushing or chasing animals but about observing them in their natural habitat, which many reviewers have appreciated.

If you’re interested in wildlife spotting, especially whales and dolphins, and want a calm, scenic sailing experience, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate a laid-back vibe and don’t mind arranging their own transport to the port.

Those who enjoy snorkeling or swimming in secluded bays will find this a highlight. It’s a good choice if you're after a short, yet memorable adventure that mixes nature, scenery, and some leisure.

Keep in mind, it’s not a tour with hotel pickup, so plan ahead to get to Puerto Colón comfortably. If you're traveling with children, the calm waters and small group size can make it a safe and enjoyable outing, but always check if your kids are comfortable on boats.

Does this trip include hotel pickup? No, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Puerto Colón.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a sun hat. It's also wise to have some water and a camera to capture those incredible wildlife moments.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, basic snorkeling gear is included, giving you the chance to explore the waters around the bay.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is about 3 hours, from boarding to returning to the dock.

What is the best time to take this tour? Check the availability, as start times vary, but mornings or early afternoons are common options.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children comfortable on boats and interested in wildlife are likely to enjoy it. Always consider your child's comfort with motion sickness and water activities.

Can I see turtles on this trip? Some reviews mention sightings of turtles, though wildlife in nature can never be guaranteed.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users? The activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm with the provider beforehand.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, many reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise about marine life, which adds value to the experience.

Do I need to worry about crowds? No, with only a few guests onboard, the trip offers an intimate, relaxed environment, ideal for those who dislike large groups.

This Tenerife sailing excursion offers a well-rounded blend of wildlife watching, scenic views, and relaxation. It’s great for those who want to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat without the chaos of larger tours. The inclusion of snorkeling, snacks, and a friendly crew makes it a comfortable and memorable outing.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who value small-group adventures and appreciate a genuine connection with nature. While you’ll need to organize your own transportation and accept that wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, most guests walk away feeling like they’ve experienced something special.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, wildlife-focused trip that won’t break the bank, this sail offers great value and a chance to enjoy Tenerife’s stunning marine environment at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: