Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and are interested in combining wildlife spotting with a bit of learning, the Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour might just be your next highlight. Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions from travelers, this experience offers more than just a boat ride—it’s an educational adventure that brings you face-to-face with dolphins, whales, and the ocean’s mysteries.

What we love about this tour is the knowledgeable guidance from marine biologists and the small group setting, which ensures a personal, engaging experience. Plus, the chance to use real scientific tools like hydrophones and GPS adds a layer of authenticity that sets this apart from typical boat tours. One potential consideration is that there’s no onboard restroom or snacks included, so bringing water and snacks is recommended if you’re sensitive to long mornings out on the water.

This trip is best suited for those who love to learn, are comfortable with small groups, and want a meaningful connection with marine life. Families with older children will also find it rewarding, especially if your kids are curious about science and animals. If you’re after a relaxing, purely sightseeing cruise, you might want to look elsewhere, but for genuine wildlife enthusiasts, this is a winner.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures personalized attention and better chances to see whales and dolphins close-up.
• Educational focus with marine biologists guiding the trip and providing hands-on experience with scientific tools.
• Beautiful scenery including views of El Teide and volcanic formations, plus the southernmost point of Tenerife.
• Great value for the price of around $87, especially considering the expertise and chance to see marine mammals in their natural habitat.
• Reviews consistently rave about the guides’ knowledge and the ability to see and hear whales with hydrophones.
• Environmentally conscious, with activities like ocean clean-up nets, emphasizing marine conservation.

Detailed Review of the Experience

Booking and Pricing

The tour costs about $87.08 per person, a fair price considering it includes guided marine science activities, a boat trip, bottled water, and all taxes. What stands out is that most travelers book about 20 days in advance, which suggests it’s a popular choice but also one worth planning ahead for. The tour’s cost aligns well with the value of getting close-up encounters with marine life combined with educational insights.

Meeting Point and Duration

Your adventure begins at Biosean’s base in Marina del Sur, a convenient location near public transportation, which is a bonus for travelers relying on local transit. The tour lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes, a manageable timeframe that balances enough time on the water with a reasonable length to stay engaged without fatigue.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All fees and taxes are covered, and bottled water is provided, but there are no snacks or onboard restrooms. If you’re sensitive to long periods on the water, bringing some snacks and possibly a small water bottle is wise. The focus on marine science and wildlife observation means the trip is more about the experience than luxury amenities.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Passing the southernmost point of Tenerife is a scenic highlight. The Rasca lighthouse and volcanic formations of Malpaís de Rasca create a stunning backdrop and serve as a natural introduction to the island’s volcanic landscape. Travelers have appreciated the atmosphere, with one review mentioning the “magnificent view of El Teide” when the sky clears, adding to the visual appeal of the trip.

During the boat ride, your guides will point out marine mammals like whales and dolphins, with some lucky travelers reporting close encounters—sometimes right next to the boat. According to reviews, the guides are full of knowledge and passionate about marine conservation, making the trip not only fun but also educational. One reviewer called the guides “very informative and excellent,” emphasizing how much they learned about the animals’ behaviors and habitats.

Using scientific tools like hydrophones and GPS isn’t just for show. Travelers have loved hearing whales and dolphins underwater through hydrophones, which makes the experience more immersive. The guides also teach you how to document sightings using datasheets, turning the trip into a mini marine biology lesson.

Sightings and Wildlife

Most reviews agree that whales and dolphins are frequently seen, with some reports mentioning pilot whales, Atlantic dolphins, and even a loggerhead turtle. Several travelers describe the experience as “like being on a National Geographic program,” highlighting the thrill of seeing these creatures in their natural environment.

One reviewer noted, “We saw a pod of pilot whales, racing with and leaping right in front of the boat,” which captures the excitement. Others appreciated the respectful approach of the guides, who ensure the animals are not disturbed—important for eco-conscious travelers.

Scenic Stops and Views

Aside from wildlife, the tour offers stunning vistas of El Teide and volcanic landscapes. One traveler mentioned how the “magnificent view” added to the overall experience, making the trip feel like a scenic cruise with the bonus of wildlife sightings.

The Small Group Advantage

With a cap of just 10 travelers, the tour fosters an intimate environment. Guests often comment on how this setup allows for more interaction with the guides and better chances of spotting animals close to the boat. This size also means less disturbance to the animals and more personalized attention.

Environmental and Conservation Aspects

Beyond just sightseeing, the tour emphasizes marine conservation. Activities like ocean clean-up nets demonstrate a commitment to protecting these waters. Several reviews mention feeling good about supporting a tour that cares about the environment rather than just profit.

The Experience’s Overall Value

Considering the price, reviews suggest this tour offers excellent value. You get a combination of wildlife encounters, scientific education, and scenic views, all guided by passionate experts. The enthusiastic feedback—such as “Raoul was full of knowledge” and “the trip lasted just under 3 hours”—backs up the idea that this is a well-organized, rewarding experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for marine life enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone who enjoys a mix of education and adventure. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with small groups and keen to learn about marine mammals in a respectful, eco-friendly setting. Families with older children who are interested in science and animals will find it especially engaging.

If you’re seeking an ordinary boat ride with minimal interaction, this might not be your best choice. But if you’re after a meaningful, informative encounter that leaves you with a greater appreciation for ocean life—and a few incredible photos—the Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour is a solid pick.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour works best for older children and teenagers who are interested in marine life and science. It’s a small, educational experience with no mention of restrictions, so families with kids who meet those criteria should be fine.

What should I bring on the tour?
Since snacks are not included, bringing a small snack or water bottle is advisable, especially if you tend to get hungry or thirsty during trips. Comfortable clothing and sunscreen are also recommended.

Are there restrooms onboard?
No, the tour does not include onboard restrooms, so plan accordingly. Consider visiting facilities before departure.

How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 20 days before the trip, so early planning assures availability, especially during peak seasons.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, providing an intimate experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

What does the tour focus on?
It’s both a sightseeing trip and an educational experience, with guides explaining marine biology and conservation efforts, and allowing hands-on use of scientific tools.

Can I hear the whales underwater?
Yes, guides use hydrophones to allow guests to listen to whale and dolphin sounds, adding an exciting dimension to your trip.

This whale watching adventure in Tenerife offers not just the chance to see incredible marine mammals but also to learn about their behavior and conservation. If you’re curious, eco-conscious, and love the idea of a small-group, science-focused outing, this tour deserves a spot on your list.