Royal Delfin – 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise

If you’re heading to Tenerife and eager to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, the Royal Delfin offers a pretty solid option. This 2-hour cruise promises the chance to spot some of the ocean’s most playful and majestic creatures, all from a specially designed catamaran with underwater viewing windows. It’s a tour that’s been booked over 5 times last week alone and garners generally good reviews, making it worth considering if marine wildlife is on your must-see list.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on sustainability and up-close viewing—it’s designed to be respectful of the marine environment. Plus, the underwater “Submarine Vision” is a real highlight, offering a perspective that few other tours can match. On the flip side, some reviews note that sightings can vary, and you might not see dolphins or whales every single trip. Still, if you love wildlife and are after a relaxed, scenic excursion, this tour could be a good fit.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a well-organized, family-friendly trip that balances fun with environmental responsibility. Just keep in mind that the boat can get crowded, and snacks aren’t included, so bringing some water or a snack might enhance your experience. This cruise is a decent pick if you’re looking for a reliable, reasonably priced way to enjoy Tenerife’s marine life without over-hyping the chances of a sighting.

Key Points

• Wildlife in their natural surroundings: The cruise offers a genuine chance to see dolphins and whales without disturbing their environment.
• Underwater viewing windows: Unique to this tour, these provide an immersive experience, letting you see marine animals beneath the surface.
• Good value for the price: At around $35.55 per person, most reviews agree it’s a fair deal considering the sights and experience.
• Knowledgeable guides: Many travelers mention how friendly and multilingual guides enhance the trip with interesting insights.
• Variable sightings: While many see dolphins and whales, some reviews note limited encounters, so patience is key.
• Comfort and accessibility: The boat has good seating options and is accessible for most travelers, including those with mobility needs.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting Off from Playa de la Américas

Your adventure begins at Av. de Colón in Playa de la Américas, a lively hub bustling with activity. The meeting point is easy to find, near public transportation, making your departure straightforward. The tour starts promptly at 10:30 am, so arriving a little earlier is wise to settle in and get your bearings.

The Catamaran: Royal Delfin

The vessel itself is a thoughtfully designed catamaran, with a focus on sustainability and visitor comfort. The boat’s size allows for a maximum of about 200 travelers, so while it can get busy, it’s not overly crowded. The boat features a middle deck with comfortable seating and panoramic windows for optimal viewing—perfect for those who want to keep an eye out for marine life, or just enjoy the scenic coastlines of Tenerife.

Onboard Features & Experience

One of the most impressive features is the 16 panoramic underwater windows. These are strategically placed to give you a clear, close-up view of the underwater world, adding a layer of excitement and wonder that many other tours lack. As one reviewer Nina_A put it, “The submarine was cool,” and many appreciated seeing dolphins swimming below as the boat cruised along.

The crew is generally praised for friendly service and knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages, making the experience accessible for most visitors. They often share interesting facts about the dolphins, whales, and the local marine ecosystem, enriching your understanding of what you’re seeing.

Wildlife Encounters: What You Might See

Depending on the season, you can encounter bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, or even migrating humpbacks. Some reviews highlight sightings of mother and baby whales, which adds a special touch. However, as with any wildlife tour, sightings are not guaranteed—some travelers report not seeing dolphins or whales on certain trips. The guides tend to be honest about this, emphasizing respect for the animals’ natural behavior.

The Scenic Coastline

While wildlife is the star, you’ll also enjoy sweeping views of Tenerife’s coastline. The boat glides past rugged cliffs and scenic coves, making the journey itself enjoyable even if wildlife sightings are scarce.

Duration & Pacing

The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy a relaxing cruise without feeling rushed. Many reviews describe the trip as “comfortable” with a good balance of sightseeing and wildlife spotting. One reviewer, Andrew_S, mentioned how “after about 45 minutes, we saw our first pod of dolphins,” emphasizing that patience often pays off.

Food, Drinks, and Extra Costs

Snacks and drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, but you’ll find options available onboard for an extra charge—generally affordable, according to reviews. Many travelers bring their own water or snacks, especially if they’re sensitive to crowds or have specific dietary needs.

Family and Accessibility Considerations

The tour is described as suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility needs, thanks to helpful crew members. However, it’s worth noting that the boat can get crowded, and some seats upstairs may be taken. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll likely enjoy the boat’s spacious layout and the underwater views, but be prepared for a potentially busy environment.

Pricing & Value

At approximately $36 per person, this cruise offers fair value, especially considering the underwater viewing experience and the chance to see marine animals in their natural habitat. Several reviews praise the trip for being “well organized” and “worth the price,” especially when sightings occur.

Cancellations & Flexibility

The tour promises free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind. If the weather isn’t suitable, the trip can be rescheduled or refunded, so it’s a low-risk option.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for wildlife lovers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with the chance to see dolphins and whales without a long commitment. It’s a good pick if you value underwater views and educational guides. Families with older children, or adults traveling solo or in groups, will find this a straightforward, enjoyable outing.

If you’re someone who appreciates good value in a scenic setting, and is okay with variable wildlife sightings, you’ll find this tour rewarding. Those seeking a luxury or exclusive experience might prefer smaller, more intimate options, but for most, this offers a solid, memorable adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the coast and wildlife without feeling tired.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise, underwater Submarine Vision, and onboard restroom facilities. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase but aren’t included.

Can I see dolphins and whales on every trip?
While many reviews mention successful sightings—dolphins, pilot whales, and even humpbacks—sightings depend on the season, weather, and animal movement. Patience is key.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many travelers praise the guides for being friendly and multilingual, sharing interesting facts about the marine life and the area.

Is the tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate comfortably, and the crew is helpful with mobility needs. However, the boat can get crowded, so plan accordingly if visiting with children.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Delfin’s 2-hour dolphin and whale cruise on Tenerife offers a genuine opportunity to observe marine life in its natural setting, complemented by underwater views and friendly guides. It’s an activity that balances relaxation, education, and a touch of adventure, making it a smart choice for travelers who value eco-friendly experiences without breaking the bank.

While sightings can vary, the overall experience tends to be positive—many visitors come away with memorable moments and stunning photos. If you’re in Tenerife and eager to see dolphins or pilot whales, this tour fits the bill nicely, especially if you’re after good value and a respectful approach to wildlife.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this cruise can add a special touch to your Tenerife trip. Just remember to keep expectations flexible, bring some snacks, and enjoy the scenic coast and fascinating marine world unfolding around you.