Dolphin and Whale Cruise in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria

If you’re thinking about taking a dolphin and whale cruise off Gran Canaria, you’re probably wondering if it’s worth the price and what kind of experience it offers. This tour promises a chance to spot dolphins, whales, turtles, and even flying fish — all in their natural ocean habitat. With a moderate price point of around $46, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a quick yet memorable marine adventure.

From what we’ve seen in reviews and the available info, two things stand out: the opportunity to see multiple marine species in one trip and the complementary swim stop that lets you cool off in the Atlantic. However, like any wildlife tour, there’s an element of unpredictability — sightings aren’t guaranteed, which is worth keeping in mind before booking. If you’re a nature lover eager to experience marine life with a laid-back vibe, this cruise could be just right.

That said, it’s not suited for everyone. Seas can get choppy, and the search for wildlife means the trip is heavily dependent on natural conditions. It’s a good pick for those who are flexible, patient, and interested in the ocean’s creatures rather than a guaranteed wildlife show. This tour feels best suited for curious travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with a chance to encounter some of the Atlantic’s most fascinating residents.

Key Points

• Great value for money with an approximate cost of $46 per person.
• Wildlife sightings are a highlight, with frequent dolphin appearances and occasional whale encounters.
• Choppy sea conditions can occur, so motion sickness precautions are recommended.
• The trip includes a swim stop, giving you a chance to cool off in the Atlantic.
• Flexibility in rebooking if no whales or dolphins are seen, adding peace of mind.
• The tour operates with respect and care for marine life, holding necessary permits and adhering to ethical standards.

An In-Depth Look at the Dolphin and Whale Cruise

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is designed to give you a genuine glimpse of marine life while respecting the animals’ natural environment. Priced at around $46.44 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience the Atlantic’s biodiversity. The tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is a decent amount of time to search for dolphins and whales without feeling dragged out.

The trip departs twice daily, at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, from Puerto Rico, making it accessible regardless of your morning or early afternoon plans. The boat, called Spirit of the Sea, features a large glass bottom—a nice touch for those who prefer to see marine life without even getting wet. Plus, free soft drinks are included on board, which helps keep everyone refreshed during the voyage.

The Route and Sighting Opportunities

The cruise takes you along the southwest coast of Gran Canaria, an area recognized for its marine diversity. This particular region hosts around 30 species of marine fauna, including dolphins, orcas, porpoises, and various whales. While the main goal is to spot dolphins, whales are also frequently seen, sometimes multiple times during a trip. As one reviewer put it, “We saw a whale! It was so beautiful,” highlighting just how special these encounters can be.

The crew, often multilingual, will share insights about the animals you see, adding an educational element. They’ll also assist in recognizing different species, making the experience both fun and informative. Nonetheless, some reviews mention the unpredictability—if no whales or dolphins are seen, the company offers a free rebooking or a full refund, which adds a layer of reassurance.

What You Might Experience During the Trip

Expect to spend a fair amount of time searching the waters, with some trips focused more on sightings than others. “You have to accept that it’s not guaranteed you’ll see them,” as one reviewer mentioned. Still, most guests do see dolphins — sometimes huge pods with multiple species — making it well worth the effort.

The swim stop is a popular feature, giving you a quick chance to jump into the water. It’s a brief experience, often just a few minutes, but it’s a refreshing break from the boat ride. Several reviews mention that seas can be choppy, so motion sickness tablets are advisable, especially for those sensitive to rough waters.

The Experiences Reported by Guests

Guests’ reviews offer a well-rounded picture. Many describe the trip as “lovely” or “fantastic”, praising the friendly crew and the close-up encounters with dolphins. As one person noted, “We saw many dolphins, weather was so nice and staff was very friendly.” Such comments suggest that, despite some unpredictability, you’re likely to have a memorable experience.

However, a few reviews highlight the less exciting days, where seas were rough, or whales weren’t spotted. One reviewer was quite disappointed, stating, “Less than 10 minutes looking for whales/whales. Pointless.” While this isn’t entirely avoidable, the company’s policy of rebooking offers some comfort.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness; many reviews mention choppy waters.
• Bring a jumper or light jacket, as it can get cool once out in the open ocean.
• Snorkel gear is recommended if you want to get a closer look at marine life underwater during the swim stop.
• The group size caps at about 95 travelers, which helps avoid overcrowding, but it’s still a fairly social environment.
• The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

The Ethical and Environmental Approach

It’s worth noting that the operators hold the World Cetacean Alliance certificate, emphasizing a commitment to ethical whale and dolphin watching. They operate with permits from the Canary Islands government and follow guidelines to minimize disturbance to marine animals. This means the focus is on respect and care, which is reassuring for environmentally conscious travelers.

The Overall Experience and Who It’s Best For

This cruise offers a relaxing, scenic way to experience marine life off Gran Canaria. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy wildlife sightings, want a bit of adventure, and appreciate value for money. The inclusion of a swim stop makes it more engaging, especially for travelers who like a chance to cool off in the ocean.

While it’s not a guarantee that you’ll see whales on every trip, the frequency of dolphin sightings and the possibility of whale encounters make it worthwhile. The friendly crew, informative narration, and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat all add to its charm. However, if you’re very sensitive to choppy waters or seeking a highly structured or predictable tour, you might want to consider your options carefully.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that seas can be choppy, which might not be suitable for very young children or those prone to motion sickness.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat ride, the chance to see dolphins and whales, a swim stop, and free soft drinks on board.

Can I rebook if no marine life is seen?
Absolutely. The tour offers a free rebooking if no whales or dolphins are spotted during your trip.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including time for searching, sightseeing, and the swim stop.

Are the sea conditions always calm?
Not always. Many reviews mention rough waters or choppy seas, so prepare accordingly. Motion sickness tablets are recommended if you’re sensitive.

What should I bring?
Bring snorkel gear if you want underwater views, a light jacket for the chill, and motion sickness remedies if needed.

What are the departure times?
There are two daily departures: 10:30 am and 1:30 pm.

How many people can join the tour?
The tour can accommodate up to 95 travelers at a time.

Is the tour environmentally responsible?
Yes, the operators hold permits and follow ethical guidelines, ensuring minimal disturbance to marine animals.

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

Final Thoughts

This dolphin and whale cruise in Gran Canaria offers a relaxed, scenic way to connect with the Atlantic’s marine life. You’ll likely come away with stories of dolphins jumping alongside the boat and possibly even a whale breaching close by. It’s a good choice for travelers who appreciate the unpredictability of nature and are eager for a genuine encounter rather than a guaranteed spectacle.

While seas can be rough and sightings depend on luck, the overall experience is friendly, informative, and accessible. If you’re fine with a bit of weather variability and enjoy being out on the water, this trip could be a highlight of your trip to Gran Canaria. Just remember to pack some motion sickness remedies, bring your snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater, and keep an open mind for what nature might reveal.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, this tour provides a meaningful peek into the ocean world right off the coast of Puerto Rico. It’s a worthwhile adventure that balances fun, education, and a touch of unpredictability — all with a focus on respecting the animals that make the Atlantic their home.