Costa Adeje: Whale and Dolphin-Watching Boat Excursion

If you’re planning a trip to the Canary Islands and looking for an activity that combines adventure, wildlife, and stunning ocean views, a whale and dolphin-watching boat trip in Costa Adeje might just be what you need. Based on many happy travelers’ experiences, this excursion offers a chance to see some of the ocean’s most captivating creatures up close — all from a comfortable and intimate setting.

What draws many travelers to this tour is its small-group size paired with the expertise of the crew. A maximum of 12 passengers means less crowding and more personalized time with the guides, which really enhances the experience. Plus, the glass-bottom viewing adds a touch of underwater magic, allowing you to watch marine life without even getting wet.

One thing to consider is that the tour lasts around two hours, so it’s a relatively quick outing. While most reviews are glowing, some mention slight delays or that the boat can be a bit crowded at times, especially if you don’t book early. This tour is well-suited for anyone who loves marine wildlife, enjoys being out on the water, or wants a fun, family-friendly adventure.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this excursion is great for anyone eager to witness whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Just keep in mind that the trip’s success heavily depends on the sea conditions and the luck of wildlife sightings — but with a knowledgeable crew guiding you, your chances are pretty good.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Expert guides and skilled captain increase your chances of spotting wildlife and making the trip informative.
• Glass-bottom viewing offers a unique perspective on marine life beneath the boat.
• All-inclusive price covers crew, fuel, port taxes, and drinks, making it straightforward and hassle-free.
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, giving peace of mind.
• Duration of around two hours makes it a manageable, family-friendly outing that won’t take up your entire day.

When you step aboard the boat in Costa Adeje, you’ll notice the cozy size of the vessel, designed to keep the atmosphere friendly and intimate. The boat departs from Lina Yacht, with a stop at Puerto Colón before returning to the starting point. This route allows you to enjoy the open sea and get close to marine life without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

The crew, comprised of a specialized cetaceans guide and a skilled captain, is a highlight of this tour. From the reviews, it’s clear they’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about marine conservation and eager to share their expertise. Several travelers mention guides like Micki and Jorge, who go above and beyond to show kids whales from the front of the boat and ensure everyone feels comfortable, even in rough seas.

The itinerary is straightforward: after departing from Lina Yacht, you cruise towards the waters around Puerto Colón, where the chances of spotting whales and dolphins are high. The guides will keep an eye out and tell you about the animals you see, sometimes even playing music to enhance the experience.

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Wildlife Sightings: Whales and Dolphins Galore

Most visitors come hoping to see whales and dolphins, and many leave thrilled — sometimes with multiple sightings. One reviewer even describes the day as “really lucky” and mentions seeing a big family of whales, which seems quite common based on the reviews.

The marine life is the main star here, and the guides do a great job of pointing out the animals and sharing interesting facts. The most memorable moments for travelers tend to be the close encounters with pilot whales, dolphins, and occasionally turtles. Several reviews highlight the privilege of witnessing these creatures in their natural environment, which they describe as “unforgettable.”

Underwater Views and Refreshments

One of the tour’s unique features is the glass-bottom viewing area. This means you won’t miss out on the underwater world even while the boat is moving; you can watch fish and other marine life swim beneath you, adding an extra element of fascination.

On top of that, the complimentary drinks and delicious sandwiches are a big plus. Many reviewers appreciate the thoughtful touch of including water, soft drinks, or beer, along with tasty snacks. This small gesture helps keep everyone refreshed, especially if the weather is warm or if seas are a bit choppy.

The Atmosphere on Board

The overall vibe is described as relaxed, friendly, and often fun. With only a handful of passengers — some reviews mention just nine travelers on board — you’ll find it much less chaotic than larger commercial tours. The guides and crew tend to foster a lively, engaging environment, making it suitable even for first-time wildlife watchers or children.

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Lina Yacht: an easy departure point with good facilities.
• Cruise to Puerto Colón: the designated wildlife spotting area, with open ocean vistas.
• Wildlife spotting: be on the lookout for whales, dolphins, and perhaps even turtles. Guides actively point out these animals and share insights.
• Optional snorkeling stop: a brief detour at a small beach area where some guests report enjoying a quick snorkel, seeing fish and other marine life.
• Return to Lina Yacht: wrapping up a two-hour ocean adventure, giving you plenty of time to relax and reflect on your sightings.

For $40 per person, this experience offers good value, especially considering the all-inclusive aspect — crew, fuel, port taxes, drinks, and snacks. Travelers frequently call it a “great activity” and appreciate the intimate atmosphere, which makes the experience more personal and less commercialized.

While some reviews mention delays or that the boat was a bit crowded at times, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall enjoyment and the chance to see whales and dolphins in the wild. The tour is particularly suited for those who prioritize wildlife encounters over luxury or lengthy excursions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This activity is ideal for nature lovers and curious travelers who want a genuine, straightforward chance to see marine life. Families with children (ages 2-10) will appreciate the friendly guides and small group size, but even solo travelers or couples seeking a quick escape to the sea will find it rewarding. It’s also a great option if you prefer a more relaxed, less crowded boat experience.

If you’re after a small-group, well-guided whale and dolphin-watching trip, this excursion from Costa Adeje checks many boxes. The guides are knowledgeable and personable, the views are spectacular, and the opportunity to see such incredible marine creatures is genuinely special. The added bonus of glass-bottom viewing and included refreshments makes it a practical, comfortable way to spend a couple of hours on the water.

It’s not a perfect tour — occasional delays and the dependence on wildlife activity mean you might not see animals every single trip. However, based on the many positive reviews, most travelers get a good show, and the experience is definitely worth the price.

If you’re someone who values a genuine, intimate marine adventure and loves seeing wildlife in action, this tour could be a highlight of your Canary Islands trip. Just remember to dress appropriately for the weather, bring your camera, and keep your fingers crossed for a good wildlife sighting.

Is the tour suitable for children? Many reviews highlight how much kids enjoyed seeing whales and dolphins, and the small group size makes it comfortable for families. The guides are friendly with children and aim to make the experience engaging for all ages.

What should I bring on the tour? Since it’s a boat trip, bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly a light jacket. Although refreshments are included, bringing your own water bottle might be a good idea, especially on warm days.

How long is the tour? The excursion lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable outing that won’t take up your whole day.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour provider states that it is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What languages are available for the guide? The guides speak multiple languages, including French, Spanish, English, Dutch, and Italian, ensuring clear communication for a diverse group.

Does the tour include snorkeling? Some reviews mention a snorkeling stop at a small beach, but it’s not listed as a core part of the itinerary. It may depend on weather and time constraints.

Are the wildlife sightings guaranteed? Not exactly — marine animals are wild, and sightings depend on sea conditions and animal activity. However, guides are experienced at spotting and pointing out wildlife when it appears.

What’s the price and is it worth it? At $40 per person, the tour is quite affordable given the included amenities and personalized experience. Many travelers find it excellent value for the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

If you’re headed to Costa Adeje and love the idea of seeing whales and dolphins in their element, this boat excursion offers a friendly, well-organized, and memorable way to spend a couple of hours at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: