Gran Canaria Dolphin Safari and a swim

Discovering the Wonders of Gran Canaria Dolphin Safari and a Swim: An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of a memorable day on the water in Gran Canaria, the Dolphin Safari and Swim tour could be just what you’re looking for. This 3-hour outing offers the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, followed by a relaxing stop in a secluded bay for swimming and snorkeling. We’ve come across honest reviews and detailed descriptions to help you decide if this experience fits your travel style.

What really stands out about this tour are the opportunities for wildlife viewing and the peaceful, scenic setting of the southwest coast. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, which makes the trip more engaging. On the flip side, the tour does have some restrictions—it’s not suitable for those with motion sickness or wheelchair users, and it requires a bit of sun protection and preparation.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who love nature, are comfortable on boats, and want a laid-back day with a chance to connect with marine life. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: Spot dolphins, whales, flying fish, and even a sea turtle.
• Respectful viewing: Focus on gentle, responsible wildlife observation.
• Scenic cruising: Sail along Gran Canaria’s stunning southwest coastline.
• Relaxing swim: Enjoy a stop at a sheltered bay to swim and snorkel.
• Comfort and safety: Friendly crew and guides ensure a smooth experience.
• Practical tips: Bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, swimsuit, and possibly a mask.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Gran Canaria Dolphin Safari and a Swim

When considering a tour like this, the first thing to understand is what it really entails. In essence, it’s a blend of adventure, relaxation, and education. We loved the way the guides combine their marine expertise with a friendly attitude, making everyone feel comfortable while sharing fascinating facts about the wildlife.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The trip begins with a pickup from a conveniently located point near your hotel—right in front of the Grill Costa Mar restaurant. From there, a bus whisks you down to Puerto Rico’s port, where the boat awaits. The journey lasts around three hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the wildlife-watching.

Cruising along the southwest coast from the Maspalomas Lighthouse towards Veneguera, you’ll have your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales. The normal search range is within 5 to 7 miles off the coast, so you’ll be out in the open ocean with expansive views. The crew will be on hand to offer insights, answer questions, and share their marine knowledge—something we found particularly valuable since spotting marine mammals can sometimes require patience and a bit of luck.

Wildlife Watching: The Highlight

The main draw of this trip is spotting dolphins and whales in their natural environment. According to one reviewer, Jack from the UK, they saw a large pod of dolphins for about 20 minutes. That’s a good long encounter, especially considering wild animal sightings are never guaranteed. You might also see flying fish darting across the water or even catch sight of a distant sea turtle, adding to the sense of discovery.

The emphasis on respect and protection of the wildlife is clear—guides are careful to ensure encounters are gentle and non-intrusive. This approach enhances the experience, making it more meaningful and ethical.

The Bay Stop: Sunbathing and Snorkeling

After wildlife spotting, the boat anchors in a protected bay along the coast. This is where you can jump into the calm, crystal-clear waters to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. The sheltered environment makes it ideal for those who want to relax without battling strong currents or crowds. The water here is described as “crystal-clear,” perfect for seeing marine life with your own eyes if you bring a mask.

Many reviews highlight this stop as a relaxing break, with the scenery providing a picturesque backdrop. If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of underwater exploration, bringing your own mask might enhance the experience. Supplies are available for purchase at the bar if you forget yours.

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Comfort and Convenience

The crew’s friendliness and extensive marine knowledge make a noticeable difference. They’re there to ensure safety and comfort, offering free soft drinks and water throughout the trip. Snacks are also available for purchase, which is handy if you get peckish during the cruise.

If your ticket includes transportation, a bus will be waiting at the port to take you back to your hotel or original pickup point. This added convenience allows you to relax without worrying about how to get back after a fun-filled, sometimes tiring day.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is generally enjoyable, a few things are worth noting. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to motion sickness, given the boat ride. Also, the experience involves being outdoors in the sun, so sun protection is a must. Bringing sunscreen, a hat, and a towel is recommended. If you’re keen on seabed exploration, a mask can be useful, although it’s not provided.

The tour runs in different languages, including English, German, and Spanish, ensuring you can follow along comfortably. The duration is just right—not too long to be tiring but enough to provide a genuine chance at wildlife encounters.

Real Experiences and Highlights from Passengers

One review from Jack, a traveler from the UK, sums it up well: “Great trip! Friendly staff, got to see a big pod of dolphins for around 20 mins, loads of flying fish on the way out and a sea turtle in the distance, definitely recommend this trip.” Such firsthand accounts give a sense of the trip’s authenticity and the kind of wildlife sightings you might expect.

Another aspect that impressed many was the passionate guides who share their marine knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational. This isn’t just a boat ride—it’s an opportunity to learn about marine conservation and observe animals in their natural behavior.

Price and Value

While the tour’s cost isn’t specified in our information, the focus on wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and expert guides suggests good value for a half-day adventure. The inclusion of drinks and the convenience of hotel transfers (if booked) make it a hassle-free option. Considering how memorable and unique wildlife encounters can be, many find it a worthwhile expenditure.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience appeals most to nature lovers and those eager to see marine mammals in their natural environment. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy boat trips, scenic coastlines, and a relaxed pace. However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or require accessibility adaptations (like wheelchair access), this might not be the best fit.

It’s also a good choice for families or groups who want a low-key, educational outing with plenty of opportunities for photos and freshwater swims.

Final Thoughts

The Gran Canaria Dolphin Safari and Swim offers a genuine chance to explore the island’s marine life while enjoying the stunning scenery of the southwest coast. The combination of wildlife sightings, peaceful bay stops, and knowledgeable guides makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

If you’re after a trip that respects the environment and delivers authentic wildlife encounters, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds and soak up the natural beauty of Gran Canaria’s waters.

While it might not be perfect for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or seasickness—the overall experience is highly praised. It’s a leisurely, engaging way to spend a few hours and perhaps even make some new furry or finned friends along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed nature and gentle wildlife focus make it generally suitable for older children. Always check with the provider if you have younger kids or specific needs.

How long does the wildlife viewing last?
You can expect to see dolphins for around 20 minutes if you’re lucky, with chances to spot flying fish or a sea turtle during the trip.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat or cap, a towel, your swimsuit, and possibly a mask for snorkeling. The crew recommends these for maximum comfort and enjoyment.

Is transportation included?
If your ticket option includes it, transportation from a designated pick-up point near your hotel will be provided to and from the port.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
No, pets are not permitted on this trip.

All in all, this tour offers a laid-back, wildlife-focused day that’s both educational and relaxing. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it’s a solid way to enjoy Gran Canaria’s beautiful waters and natural inhabitants.

You can check availability for your dates here: