Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day out on the water with plenty of chances to see dolphins and whales, this Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise might just fit the bill. It’s a popular choice for travelers in Gran Canaria looking for a mix of wildlife spotting, water fun, and beautiful scenery—all in about three and a half hours. While it’s not an all-day adventure, the experience packs enough highlights to make it memorable, especially if you love being out on the ocean.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat — a magic moment for many. Second, the snorkeling stop offers a chance to cool off and explore underwater life, which is always a hit. However, it’s worth noting that the boat’s open ocean setting means choppier waters at times, so if seasickness is a concern, you might want to come prepared.

All in all, this cruise is well-suited for those wanting a fun, relaxed ocean experience, especially if you’re into marine life or trying to tick off dolphin sightings from your bucket list. It’s also a good choice if you prefer an affordable, straightforward trip that combines wildlife viewing with some water-based activities.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings: Consistent dolphin and whale watching, with many reviews mentioning multiple sightings.
• Value for money: At around $42 per person, it offers a good balance of experience and cost.
• Flexible activities: Snorkeling, swimming, and a fun toboggan slide add variety.
• Comfortable setup: The catamaran is described as cozy but not overcrowded.
• Professional guides: Knowledgeable crew enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Weather considerations: Choppy seas can cause seasickness; bring medication if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Cruise

Starting Out from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria
The adventure begins with a pickup option that can be quite handy, especially if you’re staying in or near popular resorts like Playa del Inglés or Maspalomas. The bus ride to Puerto Base harbor takes around an hour, giving you a chance to take in the scenery and get excited for the day ahead. The vessels depart from Puerto Rico, a lively tourist hub known for its marina and beaches.

Boarding the Catamaran
Once at the harbor, you’ll step aboard a comfortable catamaran, which is often described as spacious enough for everyone to move freely. The crew tends to be friendly and professional, making sure everyone feels at ease. Many reviews highlight the helpful and energetic staff who are eager to answer questions and ensure safety, especially during the snorkeling segment.

Wildlife Watching
As the cruise kicks off into the Atlantic, the main highlight is dolphin and whale spotting. The waters around Gran Canaria are known for their marine life, and the trip’s guides are quite experienced at locating these creatures. According to reviews, sightings of schools of dolphins are common, with some travelers witnessing large pods that leap and jump close to the boat — truly a breathtaking sight. Several reviews mention seeing dolphins multiple times, sometimes for long stretches, making for incredible photo opportunities.

Quote from Review: “Most of our group of 15 people are deaf and use sign language, Ginna learned some BSL online and came to introduce herself in sign. Seeing the dolphins was so special…” — illustrating how touching and memorable the encounters can be.

Underwater Viewing
Below deck, large glass panels provide a chance to see marine animals without getting wet. This feature is particularly appreciated by those who prefer not to swim but still want a close-up look at the sea life below. It’s a quiet, fascinating way to observe dolphins and other creatures in their environment while staying dry.

Snorkeling and Swimming Stop
After about 45 minutes of wildlife watching, the boat anchors at a small bay along the coast—like Taurito—giving everyone a chance to swim and snorkel. You’ll have access to snorkel masks and noodles, which many reviews find helpful and fun. The water is often calm enough for a relaxing swim, but as some reviews mention, the ocean can be a little choppier on certain days, so seasickness can be an issue for sensitive travelers.

Quote from Review: “We saw a huge pod of Common Dolphins which was magical and the opportunity to have a little swim too. Despite the choppy waters, the staff kept us all safe…” — capturing the balance of adventure and safety.

Additional Fun: For those who aren’t into swimming, there’s even a toboggan slide onboard, adding a splash of entertainment to the trip. It’s a simple but popular feature, especially for families or those young at heart.

Return to Harbor & Drop-offs
After the ocean segment, the boat heads back, and the crew is usually friendly about sharing tips on where to explore afterward. The return trip offers more chances to relax, enjoy panoramic views, and reflect on the sightings. The bus then takes you back to your hotel or chosen drop-off point, making it a hassle-free day.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at Puerto Base harbor — the main departure point, easy to reach from many resorts.
• Bus transfer (about 1 hour) — scenic ride to set the tone for the day.
• 2 hours of wildlife watching — searching for dolphins, pilot whales, and minke whales, often with multiple sightings.
• 1-hour snorkeling stop — in a calm bay, with all equipment provided.
• 30-minute cruise back — en route, enjoy views of Gran Canaria’s coast from the water.
• Disembark and return transport — back to your hotel or drop-off points, with options in more than 35 locations.

This itinerary balances wildlife time, water fun, and comfort. The entire experience is paced well, allowing enough time for each activity without feeling rushed.

Real Experiences from Travelers

Authentic moments shine through reviews. Many mention how friendly and professional the crew is, making everyone feel comfortable even when seas are rough. The sightings are highlighted as truly spectacular — “We saw dolphins twice” and “They left us an hour to swim in a nice location,” are common sentiments. Several travelers emphasize how the experience is great value for money; at $42, it’s a budget-friendly way to spend a day immersed in nature.

Some reviews point out minor issues, like the possibility of seasickness or the snorkeling duration feeling a tad long for some. But overall, the feedback is glowing, with many praising the guides’ knowledge, the quality of the boat, and the chance to see dolphins up close.

Quote: “Most of our group of 15 people are deaf and use sign language, Ginna learned some BSL online and came to introduce herself in sign. Seeing the dolphins was so special and we enjoyed a swim in the sea and access to snorkels/noodles. Everyone had a wonderful time, highly recommend.” — showing how inclusive and engaging this trip can be.

Practical Details and Tips

Price & Value
At $42 per person, the trip is quite reasonable, considering the chance to see dolphins and whales, plus snorkeling. Several reviews confirm it’s excellent value, especially since soft drinks and water are included during the water stop.

Duration & Timing
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with exact start times depending on the day. It’s best to check availability in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Transportation & Meeting Points
You can choose to be picked up from various locations, which simplifies logistics. The meeting point at Puerto Base harbor is straightforward to find, and the bus transportation is generally smooth and on time.

What to Bring
A towel and sunscreen are recommended. Seasickness medication might be wise if you’re prone to motion sickness, as some days can be choppy.

Not Allowed
The tour has clear restrictions: sharp objects, pets, fishing, alcohol, and touching marine life are all prohibited to protect both visitors and animals.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals most to nature lovers, families with children over 5, and anyone looking for an affordable, relaxed day on the water. It’s perfect if you love marine life, want to experience dolphins in the wild, or enjoy snorkeling without needing specialized equipment. However, it might not suit those prone to seasickness or pregnant women, given the open ocean setting.

FAQs

Can I see dolphins on this cruise?
Yes, many travelers report multiple sightings of dolphins during the trip, sometimes leaping close to the boat.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkel masks and noodles are provided, and you’ll have about an hour to swim and explore underwater life at a calm bay.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts around 3.5 hours, including wildlife watching, snorkeling, and the return journey.

Are food and alcohol included?
No, only soft drinks and water are provided during the water stop; food and alcohol are not included.

Is the boat crowded?
Guests describe the boat as comfortable and not overcrowded, with plenty of space to move around and enjoy the views.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 5 are not suited for this trip, and pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness should consider their comfort before booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, reasonably priced way to enjoy the waters off Gran Canaria and see dolphins in their natural environment, this catamaran cruise is a solid pick. It offers a good mix of wildlife viewing, water activities, and scenic views—all with friendly guides and an inclusive atmosphere. The snorkeling stop adds a nice touch for those wanting to cool off and explore beneath the surface.

While the ocean can be a bit wavier on some days — which might turn Seasickness into a concern — many reviews suggest coming prepared. The overall experience, based on traveler feedback, feels genuinely worthwhile, especially if marine life and outdoor adventures are your thing.

Ideal for casual travelers, families with kids over 5, or anyone looking for a laid-back, engaging day at sea. Just keep in mind the weather conditions, and you’re all set for a memorable trip along Gran Canaria’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: