Gran Canaria is famous for its abundant marine life and year-round warm waters, making it a fantastic destination for dolphin watching tours. Unlike many other spots, Gran Canaria offers a mix of large boat trips with high chances of spotting multiple species and smaller, more personal excursions that often include swimming stops. We particularly like the Maspalomas: Palmitos Park Ticket with Dolphin and Bird Shows for its combination of animal shows and natural encounters—a great option if you want a mix of education and entertainment.
For a more active, ocean-centric experience, the From Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Dolphin Watching Cruise stands out because of its focus on spotting up to 30 cetacean species in clear waters, guided by experts. Meanwhile, if you’re after a luxurious, small-group outing with opportunities to snorkel and enjoy scenic stops, the Dolphin Searching Tour in Puerto de Mogan (“KEEPER UNO” Boat) offers a more intimate experience.
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each top-rated dolphin watching tour, highlighting what makes each one unique and helping you decide which fits your style and expectations.
1. Maspalomas: Palmitos Park Ticket with Dolphin and Bird Shows
At number one, Palmitos Park combines wildlife shows and natural habitats within a botanical park just 10 kilometers from the Maspalomas Lighthouse. This experience is especially appealing if you want to see dolphins perform alongside birds of prey, exotic birds, and parrots. The park’s lush environment showcases animals from all five continents, making it an immersive visit. The highlight is the dolphin show, which reviewers describe as “incredible” and emotionally moving. The park is praised for its size—”bigger than expected”—and the shows being relaxed and unhurried, ensuring you get quality time with the animals.
The ticket costs about $42 per person and includes multiple shows, making it a good value for families or wildlife lovers. This is a full-day experience (check availability for start times), perfect if you want a mix of marine and terrestrial animals.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a combination of animal shows and botanical beauty—a relaxed, educational, and entertaining outing that’s well-loved and highly rated.
2. From Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Dolphin Watching Cruise
Number two on our list is a classic dolphin cruise that focuses on the thrill of spotting up to 30 species of cetaceans in the crystal-clear waters off Gran Canaria’s southern coast. This 2.5-hour boat trip is praised for its friendly crew, organized logistics, and the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat. The boat departs from Puerto Rico, and many reviewers mention how smoothly everything runs—from pickup to return.
The highlight is the expert-guided experience that helps identify dolphins, whales, and even turtles. A reviewer described it as a “fantastic trip” with a “perfect atmosphere,” emphasizing how well the crew’s professionalism enhances the experience. This tour is a solid choice for those seeking an engaging, sea-based adventure with good value at about $46 per person.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a guided, informative dolphin and whale watching trip that maximizes their chances of sightings in a friendly setting.
3. Gran Canaria: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise
Number three offers a relaxed 2.5-hour boat cruise that promises close encounters with dolphins and whales, along with refreshments available on board. A popular choice for those who enjoy a leisurely marine experience, this tour allows you to snorkel, take photos, and relax in the comfort of Gran Canaria’s blue waters.
The tour emphasizes its natural habitat focus, with many reviews noting how the crew’s knowledge and the opportunity to see marine mammals in the wild add to its appeal. For around $41, it balances cost and experience well, making it suitable for those on a budget who still want a satisfying dolphin watching outing.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, enjoyable trip perfect for families or anyone wanting a casual, nature-focused day at sea.
4. Mogan: Dolphin Watching Boat Trip with Swim Stop
Number four features a 4-hour boat trip from Puerto de Mogan, where you’ll search for dolphins and enjoy a swim stop in the ocean. This tour stands out thanks to its small group size, with only about a dozen travelers at most, ensuring a more personalized experience. The boat is a luxurious, small vessel praised for its comfort and efficiency in spotting marine life without the crowded feeling of larger tours.
Reviewers emphasize dolphins swimming close to the boat, with “dozens of beautiful creatures” seen during trips. Lunch and drinks are included, adding to the value, while the stunning ocean scenery makes this an idyllic option. It’s especially good for those who want more time at sea and the chance to combine marine discovery with swimming.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a luxurious, intimate experience that combines dolphin sightings and ocean swimming.
5. Dolphin and Whales watching cruise from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria
Number five is a 2.5-hour marine cruise specifically designed for dolphin and whale spotting from Puerto Rico. This tour offers the chance to see whales like pilot and minke, as well as dolphins, through deck viewing and underwater glass panels. The boat departs from Puerto Rico, and the crew provides informative commentary on marine life.
While some reviews mention no whales or dolphins were seen on a few trips, many others report frequent sightings of pods of dolphins and even flying fish. The tour’s unlimited sodas and the option to upgrade for a longer cruise make it a flexible choice. The $46.44 price point reflects its value, especially for those wanting a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a short, flexible cruise with good chances to see marine life, especially if you’re okay with some unpredictability.
6. Dolphin and Whale Cruise in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria
Number six offers a 2.5-hour trip with the added perk of a swim stop, plus the chance to see dolphins, blue whales, turtles, and flying fish. This excursion is known for informative crew and snorkel gear that lets you explore underwater. The $46.44 price includes a swim session, making it ideal for travelers who want both marine life sightings and a chance to cool off.
Review comments highlight dolphins seen in large pods and the friendly crew. The availability of rebooking if marine mammals aren’t spotted offers peace of mind. It’s a flexible, interactive tour suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing and swimming.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy marine encounters and aqua fun.
7. Dolphin Searching Tour in Puerto de Mogán (“KEEPER UNO” Boat)
Number seven is a luxury 4-hour dolphin search on a stylish yacht with a maximum of eight travelers. This small-group tour includes lunch, soft drinks, and scenic stops at beaches and cliffs. The keeper uno is praised for its personalized service and the chance to see dolphins and even mother-and-baby pods.
Reviewers mention the comfortable boat, friendly staff, and abundant dolphin sightings—”highly recommended” for a luxurious, intimate experience. The well-planned itinerary combines marine life with scenic coastal views, making it ideal for those seeking comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a premium, private experience with high chances of marine encounters and scenic stops.
8. 2-Hour Dolphin and Whale Watching in Gran Canaria
Number eight offers a short but efficient 2.5-hour cruise designed for quick dolphin and whale sightings. This trip is perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want a chance to see marine mammals. The vessel is large and stable, providing good views from the deck.
Reviewers note that dolphins are often seen, and the guide’s knowledgeable commentary enhances the experience. While some mention the boat can pitch in choppy waters, the overall value for such a quick trip is high. At just over $40, it suits budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a quick marine experience.
Bottom Line: A practical option for short visits or those wanting a cost-effective dolphin watching experience.
9. Half-Day Cruise Tour – Dolphin and Whale Watching
Number nine features a 3- to 5-hour semi-private cruise departing from Puerto de Mogán. It offers less rolling navigation on catamarans, with a stop at Cala del Perchel to swim or snorkel. Many reviews mention seeing multiple dolphin species and even a surprise Hammerhead Shark.
This tour is well-suited for those who want a longer, more relaxed experience with the chance to combine marine viewing with swimming. The friendly staff and well-organized schedule make it popular among families and adventure seekers alike. It costs around $45.86, providing good value for the extended experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for trip travelers who want a longer, multi-activity day at sea with marine encounters and water fun.
10. Gran Canaria Sunset Dolphin Watching Activity
Number ten is a special evening tour aboard the eco-friendly Senda del Azul, designed for sunset viewing of dolphins and pilot whales. With only eight participants, this personalized trip is guided by a biologist who shares insights about the marine life. Watching the sunset while searching for bottlenose, common, and spotted dolphins makes it especially memorable.
The $89.80 price reflects its premium nature, but the personalized attention and stunning scenery make it worthwhile. Reviewers highlight the intimate setting and the experience of seeing marine mammals in the golden hour. Best suited for romantic couples or wildlife enthusiasts seeking a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a peaceful, scenic evening with a good chance to see dolphins against a sunset backdrop.
11. Puerto Rico : 2 hour Dolphin Catamaran Excursion
Number eleven offers a short, lively 2-hour catamaran trip from Puerto Rico, focusing on dolphin sightings and the possibility of spotting turtles and flying fish. The comfortable vessel is praised for its friendly crew and easy navigation. The $40 price makes it accessible for families or travelers on a budget who want a quick marine experience.
While reviews are brief, comments like “Super!!!” and “Lots of dolphins” suggest a consistent chance of sightings. Its short duration makes it perfect for those who want a quick taste of marine life.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a brief, fun-filled dolphin spotting trip with minimal fuss.
12. Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Premium Dolphin Catamaran Tour
Number twelve is a 4-hour premium cruise designed for dolphin and whale enthusiasts who want a comfortable, high-quality experience. With the largest comfort focus, this tour includes multiple marine sightings opportunities along with scenic coastal views. The cost is higher at $73, but the experience includes snorkeling, scenic stops, and excellent onboard amenities.
Reviewers appreciate the variety of marine animals seen, from dolphins to flying fish, and the luxury atmosphere, making it well-suited for travelers who value comfort and a more exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for luxury travelers or those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable, marine adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dolphin Watching Tour in Gran Canaria
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time, and how interactive or relaxed you want your experience to be. If you prefer a family-friendly, educational visit, the Maspalomas Palmitos Park offers a full-day of animal shows. For small-group luxury and scenic coastal stops, the Keeper Uno is a top choice.
If your main goal is seeing marine mammals in their natural environment, the Dolphin Watching Cruise from Puerto Rico or Half-Day Cruise will give you good chances, especially if you don’t mind some unpredictability. For those wanting a quick, budget-friendly trip, the 2-Hour Dolphin and Whale Watching is a solid pick.
Remember, booking early helps ensure availability, especially for tours with limited spaces like the Sunset Dolphin Watching. Also, consider the season—marine life sightings can vary slightly with the time of year, but generally, these tours operate year-round.
In summary, Gran Canaria offers a wide range of dolphin watching experiences—from full-day wildlife parks to intimate yacht trips. For a family outing, Palmitos Park is excellent; for a luxury, personalized trip, Keeper Uno delivers. And if you’re eager for the thrill of spotting dolphins in the wild, the cruises from Puerto Rico and Mogan are your best bets. Whatever your style, early booking and the right choice will ensure you create memorable marine moments on your Canary Islands holiday.
