A Practical Look at the Royal Delfin 3-Hour Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour
If you’re considering a marine adventure in Tenerife, the Royal Delfin 3-hour tour comes up often as a solid option. It promises the chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with a purpose-built catamaran featuring underwater viewing windows. We’ve gathered enough info to offer a clear picture of what to expect, so you can decide if this tour fits your style of travel.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines wildlife viewing with a relaxing boat ride and a tasty onboard lunch. The underwater glass viewing deck sounds like a real highlight—imagine watching dolphins glide beneath your feet, all while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped boat. Plus, the stop for swimming in Diego Hernandez Bay offers a chance to cool off in warm waters, adding a nice touch of adventure to the trip.
One thing to keep in mind is that the boat can get crowded, especially during peak times, which might make getting a good view or moving around a bit tricky. Also, the tour’s success in spotting whales or dolphins can depend on the day’s conditions and luck, so it’s worth tempering expectations a little. This trip is best suited for those who love wildlife, enjoy a relaxed cruise, and are happy to combine sightseeing with a bit of water fun.
If that sounds like your idea of a good time, then you’ll probably find this tour to be a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a balanced experience of nature, comfort, and local cuisine without the fuss of overly long or complex excursions.
Key Points

- Wildlife sightings are possible year-round thanks to Tenerife’s proximity to whale and dolphin habitats.
- The purpose-built catamaran with underwater panoramic windows offers a unique view of marine life beneath the surface.
- Lunch and drinks are included, providing convenience and a casual dining experience onboard.
- Swimming stop at Diego Hernandez Bay adds a refreshing aspect to the trip, especially in warm waters.
- The tour duration is around 3 hours, making it manageable for most schedules without feeling rushed.
- Crowd levels may be high, which could affect your viewing experience or comfort during peak times.
The Experience in Detail

Starting from Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, the Royal Delfin sets sail along Tenerife’s scenic southwestern coast, a prime spot for spotting whales and dolphins. This area is known for sightings throughout the year, which makes this tour a more reliable option compared to trips that depend heavily on seasonal migrations.
The boat itself is designed for comfort and visibility. Its purpose-built structure includes an underwater panoramic viewing deck, where you can peer down into the water and see marine life swimming close to the boat. The glass-bottom feature is often highlighted by guests—many are amazed by how clear the water is and how close they can get to the action without getting wet.
As you cruise past the Los Gigantes cliffs, the views are spectacular, with towering rock formations rising dramatically from the ocean. These cliffs add a dramatic backdrop, making for impressive photos even if wildlife sightings are elusive. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping to keep the atmosphere lively and informative.
The main event—wildlife watching—can be a mixed bag, but many reviewers report seeing a good number of dolphins and whales. Dawn_H shares, “I never expected to see so many dolphins at one time. The sea was so blue and clear you could see them through the water. Fantastic experience.” Another reviewer, Fiona_R, emphasizes how the guides kept everyone engaged with informative commentary as they observed the animals in their habitat.
The swimming stop at Diego Hernandez Bay is a highlight for many. The waters here are warm and inviting, giving you a chance to take a dip after the boat ride. Do note, however, that the boat might be crowded, which could make maneuvering or finding a good spot a bit tricky. Dawn_H also mentions that photos and videos are available for purchase, which can be a nice keepsake of your marine adventure.
Lunch on board is included in the fare, and it generally receives positive remarks. The provided meal is described as tasty, and there’s a selection of drinks including soft drinks, soda, and alcohol such as beer and sangria. This makes the trip feel more relaxed, as you don’t have to worry about packing snacks or finding a place to eat afterward.
The overall duration of 3 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the sights and experience, but not so long that it becomes tiring. It’s suitable for most travelers, although some reviews suggest the boat can feel quite full during busy times. This crowding might limit movement or obstruct views during wildlife sightings, so if you’re a big fan of personal space and unobstructed viewing, try to go during less busy periods if possible.
Hoping to spot marine life? We've covered these other whale watching options in Tenerife
What’s the Value?
At around $59 per person, this tour offers a decent value, especially considering that it includes lunch, drinks, and the underwater viewing experience. The ability to see marine animals from multiple vantage points—above, below, and underwater—adds a unique dimension. The onboard commentary and friendly staff help make the experience educational and enjoyable, which many travelers value.
It’s worth noting that extras like snacks aren’t included, but they are available for an extra charge if you want more options. Parking fees are also not included, so plan accordingly if you’re driving.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for wildlife lovers and those looking for a memorable, relatively short cruise. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, comfort, and good food. Families with children who are comfortable in a boat environment may also find this appealing, especially given the swimming stop and the potential for close-up dolphin views.
However, if you’re really keen on guaranteed sightings or dislike crowded spaces, it’s worth considering this when booking. The success of spotting marine life can depend on natural factors, and the boat can get busy, which might detract from the experience for some.
Royal Delfin 3H Dolphin & Whale Watching! Swimming & Lunch!
“I never expected to see so many dolphins at one time. The sea was so blue and clear you could see them through the water. Fantastic experience, lun…”
FAQs

Is there a chance of seeing whales and dolphins?
Yes, sightings are possible all year round in Tenerife’s southwest coast, and many guests report seeing dolphins and whales during their trip.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes the use of underwater glass viewing windows, a swimming stop at Diego Hernandez Bay, a courtesy lunch, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages like beer and sangria.
How long is the tour?
The excursion lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
Can I buy snacks or souvenirs onboard?
Snacks are not included in the price but are available for purchase on the boat. Photos and videos of your trip can also be bought afterward.
Is the boat suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Keep in mind that the boat can get crowded, especially during peak times.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
In Summary, the Royal Delfin 3-hour dolphin and whale-watching tour offers a well-rounded experience with wildlife viewing, a scenic cruise, a swimming stop, and tasty onboard food. It’s a good choice for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly adventure that combines nature, comfort, and fun. If you’re patient and open to a bit of crowding, you should come away with some fantastic memories and maybe even some close-up dolphin encounters. Just remember that sightings depend on luck and conditions, so keep your expectations flexible and enjoy the journey.
Want to see dolphins? Here are other marine encounters we've examined in Tenerife
- 3-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching and Listening Tour
- 5 hrs. Watching and listening whales and dolphins visiting Los Gigantes
- Kayaking with Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife
- Tenerife 3-Hour Discover Whales and Dolphins
- Tenerife Whales and Dolphins Watching Experience in Catamaran
- Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South
More Whale Watching Tours in Tenerife
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
- Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat
- Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Submarine Vision Mini Cruise
- Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Catamaran Tour with Drinks
- Los Cristianos: Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise with Swim
- Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling
More Lunch Experiences in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Private Island Tour with Breakfast & Lunch
- Tenerife: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner & Drink
- Puerto Cruz: VIP Teide Sunset & Stars, Guachiche Lunch+Cava
- Discover whales in Tenerife: exclusive yacht tour with swim and lunch
- Adeje: Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise with Lunch and Swim
- Adeje Classic Schooner: Whales, Lunch & Los Gigantes Cliffs
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Trip to Puerto de la Cruz
- Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike through the Taganana Valley – small group max. 10
- Tenerife : Olé Flamenco Show by Fran Chafino Ticket
- Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks
- Tenerife: Jet Ski Safari from Puerto Colón
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
More Tenerife experiences we've covered
- Tenerife: Trip to Puerto de la Cruz
- Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike through the Taganana Valley – small group max. 10
- Tenerife : Olé Flamenco Show by Fran Chafino Ticket
- Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks
- Tenerife: Jet Ski Safari from Puerto Colón
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
- Tenerife: Scandal Dinner Show Entry Ticket and 5-Course Meal
- Tenerife: Scuba Dive & Fun, Discover the Magic of the Ocean
- Tenerife: Snorkeling Tour in a Marine Protected Area
- Tenerife: Puerto Colon Snorkel Safari by Speed Boat
- Tenerife: Photography Sessions – Families, Couples, Friends
- Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat



