Bonadea II Ecological Whale Watching, 2 hours

If you’re heading to Tenerife and dreaming of seeing dolphins, whales, and perhaps a turtle or two in their natural habitat, a whale watching tour like Bonadea II’s ecological experience is often high on the list. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it looks like a wonderfully balanced mix of adventure, education, and respect for nature.

What really stands out about this trip is its small group size—max six travelers—which promises a more personal and less intrusive experience. Plus, the expert guides and the boat’s focus on ecological principles ensure that you’re observing wildlife responsibly.

That said, it’s important to note that the duration is just about two hours—a good chunk of time, but not a full day—and weather conditions can influence the trip, so flexibility is key. This tour really suits travelers who value sustainable wildlife encounters and prefer a more intimate setting over larger, commercialized boat trips.

Key Points:

• Small group size enhances interaction and reduces disturbance to animals.
• Expert guides like Sergio are passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience richer.
• The eco-friendly focus ensures respectful wildlife observation in protected zones.
• Sea conditions and weather can affect sightings and trip timing.
• The cost offers good value considering the personalized experience and wildlife sightings.
• The duration of 2 hours makes it a manageable addition to your holiday plans without feeling rushed.

What to Expect from the Bonadea II Ecological Whale Watching Tour

This 2-hour adventure departs from Puerto Colón’s dock 4 and takes you into the waters of the Teno-Rasca conservation area—a significant marine zone within the Natura 2000 network. From the start, you’ll notice that the boat is well-equipped for ecological observation and designed for comfort, with a maximum of 6 travelers, making it feel like a private charter rather than a crowded tour.

The journey begins close to the coast, and almost immediately, you can expect to see dolphins, turtles, and seabirds—a lively start to your marine wildlife encounter. As you venture further, up to three miles off the coast and into waters reaching 1,000 meters deep, your chances of spotting calderón tropical—a key resident whale species—increase.

What makes this trip stand out is the crew’s commitment to responsible wildlife viewing. They approach animals at a respectful distance, ensuring minimal disturbance. The guides, especially someone like Sergio as praised by multiple reviewers, are eager to share their extensive knowledge about the marine fauna, enriching your experience beyond just the sightings.

The Marine Environment and Its Significance

Traveling into the special conservation zone signifies that you’re supporting efforts to preserve Tenerife’s marine biodiversity. The area’s protected status means the animals there are generally undisturbed by large crowds, which is good news for wildlife lovers.

While dolphins and pilot whales are often seen, there’s also a chance—thanks to the crew’s expertise—to spot migrating cetaceans, which are passing through this part of the Atlantic. The boat’s ability to navigate gently and turn around for sightings (sometimes after receiving tips from other spots) contributes to a dynamic, engaging experience.

The Experience: What It Feels Like on the Water

Expect to board a relatively small, serene vessel that prioritizes quiet operation—a key factor in approaching wildlife without chasing them or causing stress. Several reviewers highlight the comfortable and peaceful setting of the boat, which makes the trip more enjoyable, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a calmer environment.

The duration of about 2 hours means you’ll cover a good amount of water without it feeling too long. The boat’s size allows for close-up views of dolphins and whales—a feature many travelers find particularly memorable. The guides’ expertise shines through as they explain behaviors, give you background on the species, and even help with photography, so you can capture those special moments.

The Sighting Highlights

Multiple reviews mention seeing dolphins, pilot whales, and a leatherback turtle—which is quite special. The guides often get good tips about sightings thanks to their experience and knowledge, sometimes turning the boat around just in time for an incredible whale encounter, even if it’s near the trip’s end.

One reviewer shared, “We saw pilot whales, dolphins, and turtles—an incredible mix,” illustrating how varied the sightings can be. Another noted how the guide, Sergio, “knew everything about the ocean and animals,” which adds a layer of confidence and educational value to the trip.

The Value of the Tour: Price, Duration, and Experience

At roughly $69.51 per person, this tour offers a solid value proposition for such a tailored, eco-conscious experience. Considering the small group size, expert guides, and the chance to observe marine mammals in their natural habitat, many reviews suggest it’s worth every penny.

Compared to larger, busier tours, this trip’s emphasis on responsible viewing and personalized attention makes it stand out. You won’t find yourself packed onto a crowded boat with hundreds of other travelers—here, it’s about quality over quantity.

The 2-hour duration is long enough to feel like a proper adventure but short enough to fit comfortably into a day of sightseeing. Many reviewers emphasize how this makes for a relaxing yet exciting outing, especially when combined with other activities on Tenerife.

Meeting Points and Practical Considerations

The tour departs from Av. de Colón, 4, Costa Adeje, close to public transportation options, making it convenient to reach. The boat is equipped to accommodate most travelers, and service animals are allowed if needed.

Note that, due to the boat’s characteristics, passengers over 130 kilos cannot be carried, which is good to keep in mind for some travelers. Also, since the tour relies on good weather, cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What We Loved from the Reviews

Several travelers highlighted the knowledge and passion of the guides, with Sergio receiving particular praise. One review summed it up: “Sergio is an experienced captain and gave my group a great tour. We saw pilot whales coming up for air and resting, and he was very respectful of the animals.”

The small group size was another favorite aspect, with many describing it as “like a private charter.” This not only improves the viewing chances but also fosters a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.

The respectful approach to wildlife resonates strongly with visitors. Multiple reviews mention how the crew avoids chasing animals or disturbing their natural behaviors, giving visitors a chance to observe the animals peacefully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values eco-friendly tourism and wants to see wildlife in their natural environment without the crowds or noise of larger vessels, this trip is ideal. The small group size makes it especially suitable for travelers who prefer a more intimate, relaxed experience.

Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone curious about marine mammals will appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to witness dolphins and whales up close. It’s also great for those who want a stress-free, respectful wildlife encounter that emphasizes conservation.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the moderate duration and peaceful atmosphere make it suitable for travelers with children who enjoy nature and boat trips, provided they are comfortable at sea.

FAQs About the Bonadea II Ecological Whale Watching Tour

Is there a limit on the number of travelers?
Yes, the tour caps at 6 travelers, creating a very personal experience with ample space and close-up views.

What do I need to bring with me?
While not explicitly listed, typical boat trips suggest bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Dress for the weather, and consider seasickness remedies if you’re prone.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel on time, and the trip may be canceled due to poor weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

How long is the tour exactly?
The experience runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your Tenerife holiday.

Is the boat accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the calm, respectful environment and short duration suggest it could be suitable for children, especially those interested in wildlife and nature.

What species might I see?
Dolphins, pilot whales, and sometimes turtles are common sightings. There’s also a chance to see migratory cetaceans if luck is on your side.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Av. de Colón, 4, Costa Adeje, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What makes this tour eco-friendly?
The boat is authorized for whale watching activities, and the crew adheres to guidelines that avoid disturbing the animals, especially in the protected conservation zone.

Wrapping Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone seeking a responsible, personal, and genuinely interesting way to see Tenerife’s marine wildlife, the Bonadea II Ecological Whale Watching tour looks like a top pick. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and focus on conservation ensure you’ll get a meaningful experience without feeling like just another tourist.

You’ll love the scenic views, the chance to observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, and the peace of mind that comes with supporting environmentally conscious tourism. Plus, with consistent five-star reviews praising the professionalism and passion of the crew, this tour is clearly a crowd-pleaser.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and wildlife-centered adventure—especially if you enjoy small-group experiences—this tour could be one of your Tenerife highlights.

In summary, this trip is perfect for travelers who want a respectful, intimate experience with marine life, value expert guidance, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Atlantic. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to combine wildlife watching with responsible tourism, all wrapped into a compact, two-hour adventure that you’ll remember long after the trip ends.