La Palma is a fantastic place for boat tours and cruises. Its rugged coastline, clear waters, and abundant marine life make every trip memorable. We especially enjoy spotting dolphins and whales along the coast, which is a highlight of many tours. Plus, the island’s volcanic scenery provides a stunning backdrop for any boat adventure. Whether you’re after a quick half-day cruise or a full-day exploration, La Palma offers options that fit different interests and budgets.
One of our favorite experiences is the boat trip along the northwest coast of La Palma, which combines natural beauty, marine life, and a bit of local culture. It’s perfect for those who want an easy, scenic outing with the chance to see dolphins, turtles, and maybe even whales. For a longer, more comprehensive experience, the special cruise tour of the center and south of La Palma offers a full day packed with views, volcanic landscapes, and island history.
Below, we’ll walk you through each of these top-rated boat tours, highlighting what makes them special so you can choose the best fit for your La Palma adventure.
1. Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma
At number 1 on our list, this 2-hour coastal cruise takes you along the cliffs, ports, and beaches of Tijarafe and Puntagorda. What makes this trip stand out is its focus on volcanic history and the chance to see marine animals up close. The boat stops for a swim if the weather allows, giving you a refreshing break from the sea.
The tour is well-rated (4.5/5 from 34 reviews) and offers a great balance of scenic views and wildlife watching. Many travelers rave about seeing dolphins and calderones (pilot whales), with one reviewer mentioning the thrill of dolphin sightings as a “great experience.” The guide’s local knowledge shines, making the trip both educational and fun. The price ($70.16 per person) reflects good value for this well-paced, small-group adventure.
What’s unique here is the combination of coastal geology and marine life encounters, making it ideal for families or anyone interested in the natural environment. The trip is short enough to fit into a busy schedule but rich enough to be memorable.
Bottom Line: A scenic, wildlife-focused cruise perfect for those wanting a quick, immersive experience on La Palma’s coast.
2. Special cruise tour Center and South La Palma
At number 2, this full-day private cruise is a comprehensive exploration of La Palma’s volcanic and cultural highlights. It’s priced per group (up to 4 people at $318.12), making it ideal for families or small groups seeking a personalized experience.
The tour begins with spectacular views from the Mirador de la Concepción, offering panoramic vistas of Santa Cruz and the port. From there, it heads into La Caldera de Taburiente National Park, with stops at the Cumbrecita viewpoint, famous for its breathtaking interior views. Later, the journey takes you along the volcanic landscapes of San Antonio Volcano, passing through towns like Mazo and Los Llanos.
This tour emphasizes geology, scenery, and local history, making it suitable for travelers interested in the island’s volcanic origins and cultural sites. The fact that it combines land and sea highlights the diversity of La Palma in one trip. With five reviews giving it a perfect 5-star rating, it’s clear that many find this tour both enriching and well-organized.
While it takes a longer time, the value lies in its scope—offering an in-depth look at La Palma’s most iconic sights in one day. Be prepared for a lot of walking and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for explorers wanting a detailed, customizable experience that combines boat time with island sightseeing.
How to Choose Your Best La Palma Boat Tour
When selecting between these options, consider your priorities. If you prefer a quick, wildlife-focused trip with dolphin and whale sightings, the northwest coast tour is perfect. It offers a balanced mix of scenery and marine life in a short, fun outing.
If you’re interested in a full-day adventure that combines geological wonders, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural stops, then the full-day private cruise provides an immersive experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want to explore the deeper volcanic landscapes and see the island from both water and land perspectives.
For travelers on a budget, the shorter coastal trip offers excellent value, while those with more time and a tighter group might prefer the personalized full-day tour. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
La Palma offers a range of boat experiences that highlight the island’s stunning coastlines, volcanic scenery, and marine life. For quick nature escapes, the northwest coast cruise is a fantastic choice. For those who want to dive deep into La Palma’s landscapes and culture, the full-day tour is hard to beat.
No matter your choice, these boat trips add a unique layer to your La Palma visit. We recommend booking early and pinning down your preferred tour before your trip, so you don’t miss out on these unforgettable views and encounters. Happy sailing!
