Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma

Exploring La Palma’s Northwest Coast by Boat: A Practical Review

If you’re looking for a way to see La Palma’s rugged northwest coast from a different perspective, this boat trip might just fit the bill. It’s been reviewed positively by many travelers, boasting a 4.5-star rating from 34 reviews, with 91% recommending it. The experience promises more than just a boat ride — it’s a chance to witness dramatic cliffs, visit caves, relax at natural beaches, and maybe even spot whales and dolphins.

What really catches our eye are its combination of coastal exploration and marine wildlife encounters, along with the chance to explore caves like La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada. Plus, the tour offers an inclusive atmosphere — with an easy mobile ticket, a small group of up to 12 people, and the flexibility to enjoy either a sunset viewing or a routine sea trip.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that weather conditions can influence how much you see or do. Tours depend on the sea state and sightings might vary day to day. Still, if you love being on the water and enjoy a bit of adventure, this could be a great way to spend a couple of hours enjoying La Palma’s natural beauty. This experience is especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable guides, good value, and a chance to see marine life.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Short but packed: Around 2 hours, ideal for a quick but fulfilling coastal experience.
• Wildlife sightings: Expect to see dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds if luck is on your side.
• Visit caves and beaches: Stops include La Cueva Bonita, La Cueva Colorada, Playa de la Veta, and Porís de Candelaria.
• Expert-guided: Guides are well-prepared, enhancing the experience with insights about the coast and marine life.
• Flexible experiences: Some days include sunset views, others focus on exploration and relaxation.
• Cost-effective: At around $70 per person, it offers good value considering all included activities and sights.

What the Tour Offers and Why It’s Worth Considering

When we picture La Palma, we often think of dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and starry nights. But the northwest coast? It’s a rugged, scenic stretch that’s perfect for exploring from the water. This boat trip puts you right at the heart of it, giving a perspective you won’t get from land alone.

The tour begins at Restaurante El Muelle in Tarajal, a convenient starting point. From there, the fantasy hydrofoil takes you out along the coast, with underwater vision windows that reveal what’s beneath the surface. This is an especially cool feature because it transforms the boat ride from simple sightseeing to an interactive experience — you get to see marine creatures and underwater formations without needing snorkel gear.

The Coastal Walk and Cave Visits

Once you’re out on the water, the itinerary usually includes stops at notable caves, specifically La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada. Our sources tell us the caves are visually impressive, with La Cueva Bonita often described as a highlight, and some reviews mention attempts to enter and explore their interiors. It’s not just a quick photo stop; the caves add an element of discovery to the trip.

Aside from caves, you’ll visit Porís de Candelaria, Porís de Puntagorda, and Playa de la Veta — a natural beach perfect for a swim and some relaxation. Travelers report that Playa de la Veta is always part of the trip, giving everyone a chance to unwind and soak up the sun. The stops are designed to balance sightseeing with downtime, so you can enjoy a swim, take photos, or just relax with a drink or tapas that are included in the tour.

Marine Wildlife and the Open Sea

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to see marine wildlife. According to reviews, dolphins are frequently spotted, and there’s a good chance of seeing whales, especially if the season aligns. One reviewer describes their experience: “The moment cumbre was seeing dolphins and a whale.” The boat’s small group size and knowledgeable guides enhance the chances of sightings, making it more than just a scenic cruise — it’s a real wildlife viewing adventure.

The boat often ventures further into the open sea, reaching the lava delta created by recent volcanic activity. This adds a dramatic landscape to the journey, and the guides’ insights help you understand the geological significance of the area.

The Experience in Action: What You’ll See and Do

The trip is flexible depending on weather and marine activity, but generally, it includes:

• Start at 11:00 am from Tarajal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Coastal walk along cliffs, ports, and beaches of Tijarafe and Puntagorda.
• Stops at caves like La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada, which are often described as visually striking.
• A dip at Playa de la Veta, where you can relax or enjoy some local tapas and drinks on the boat.
• Visit the lava delta, a recent volcanic feature that adds a fascinating geological aspect to the tour.
• Wildlife spotting, including dolphins and, with luck, whales or turtles, especially during the return journey.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, making the experience straightforward and hassle-free.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At about $70.16 per person, the tour is quite reasonable given the number of stops, the inclusion of marine wildlife sightings, and the guided nature of the experience. It’s worth noting that most travelers book around 18 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular and worth planning ahead.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate. Children are generally welcome, but the small group size and the nature of the boat trip mean you should consider whether your kids are comfortable on open water.

The free cancellation policy is another plus, offering peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy small group experiences and want to see La Palma from a different vantage point. If marine life, caves, and scenic coastal landscapes excite you, this is a good pick. It also works well for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides — reviews highlight the guides’ preparation and friendliness.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer a longer or more active adventure, as it’s a short, two-hour cruise. Also, if weather conditions are poor, the experience could be less spectacular, so be flexible with your expectations.

If you’re traveling with children, consider their comfort with open water and boat rides, but overall, it can be a family-friendly activity, especially with an emphasis on relaxation and wildlife viewing.

FAQs

Is the boat trip suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your kids’ comfort with boat rides and open water. It’s generally family-friendly, especially if they enjoy wildlife and nature.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket. Swimsuits and towels are advisable for swimming at Playa de la Veta.

Will I see marine animals?
There’s a good chance, especially for dolphins and sometimes whales, depending on the season and luck. Guides are experienced at spotting wildlife.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but comprehensive sea adventure.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, stops at caves and beaches, and drinks or tapas when relaxing at Playa de la Veta.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility.

Overall, this boat trip along La Palma’s northwest coast offers a lively mix of scenery, wildlife, and geological wonders. It’s perfect for those wanting a snapshot of the island’s coastal charm, guided by knowledgeable staff, and with enough flexibility to make each trip unique. If you’re after a memorable, reasonably priced sea adventure — and don’t mind the weather-dependent nature of marine wildlife sightings — this is definitely worth considering.