La Gomera: Whale Watching Tour on an Vintage Boat

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful yet exciting day out on the water, this whale-watching tour off La Gomera could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat while relaxing on a beautifully maintained vintage boat. We’ve looked into it, and it seems like a perfect blend of nature, comfort, and a taste of local hospitality—all for a reasonable price.

What really draws us to this experience are the spectacular views of the island from the sea and the chance to spot a variety of marine life. Being on a vintage boat adds a certain charm, making the journey feel special without sacrificing comfort. Plus, the combination of wildlife viewing, delicious snacks, and a swim in crystal-clear waters makes this outing pretty well-rounded.

That said, it’s worth noting that, like any outdoor activity, it’s dependent on sea conditions—whale sightings are not guaranteed if the weather turns rough. This makes it a bit of a wait-and-see experience, which isn’t unusual for marine tours. If you’re someone who loves being out on the water and appreciates a relaxed, scenic trip, this tour is likely to hit the mark.

This whale-watching adventure is best suited for those who enjoy wildlife, gentle cruising, and good company. If you’re after a laid-back, immersive experience with a good chance of seeing marine life and taking in stunning coastal views, this tour could be a highlight of your La Gomera visit.

Key Points

• Wildlife spotting: Chances to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment.
• Vintage boat charm: A spacious, comfortable vessel with multiple viewing areas.
• Relaxing experience: Enjoy the tranquil sea, a swim in crystalline waters, and tasty snacks.
• Flexible options: Multiple departure points and routes to suit your plans.
• Weather-dependent: Whale sightings depend on sea conditions.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, but check for specific needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Heart of the Tour: What to Expect

This whale-watching tour takes you off the south coast of La Gomera aboard Tina, a vintage boat that’s as charming as it is comfortable. We loved the way the boat is designed with different areas for lounging—whether you prefer the upper deck or the bow, there’s a spot for everyone to enjoy the views. The boat’s spaciousness and onboard toilets make it a practical choice for a few hours at sea, especially if you’re not used to long boat trips.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour typically starts from Puerto de Playa Santiago, with a couple of choices for departure points, making it convenient whether you’re staying in the area or nearby. After setting off, the main part of the cruise involves searching for whales and dolphins, which are quite common in these waters. You might find yourself marveling at the sight of pilot whales and dolphins playing near the boat, as some reviews mention seeing loads of dolphins and pilot whales up close.

One of the highlights is a stop in a hidden bay where you can enjoy a swim in the Atlantic’s crystalline waters. The water is described as perfect for a refreshing dip, and the crew often arranges the stop with safety in mind. The stop is also a nice break, giving you a chance to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

The tour includes delicious tapas and drinks onboard, adding a culinary touch to the experience. Many reviews mention the helpful, friendly crew who serve the snacks and drinks, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The catering is simple but well appreciated, especially after a bit of wildlife spotting and swimming.

What You’re Likely to See

The main draw, of course, is the marine wildlife. While sightings are not guaranteed, the reviews are promising, with travelers reporting seeing at least three groups of whales and dolphins during their trip. The crew’s expertise and attentiveness are often praised, and their respect for the animals is clear—something that many wildlife enthusiasts appreciate.

If you’re lucky, you might witness pilot whales, which are especially noted in reviews. The experience of seeing these majestic creatures swim close to the boat is genuinely memorable. The natural setting and the calm sea conditions (when available) enhance the whole adventure, making it a peaceful yet exhilarating outing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $55 per person, the tour offers good value, considering that it includes the boat ride, snacks, drinks, and fuel. The crew’s professionalism is highlighted in reviews, and the included amenities make for a relaxed trip.

However, some extras like snorkel equipment and towels aren’t included, so if you want to snorkel or swim longer, you’ll need to bring your own gear and towels. The tour doesn’t specify whether the stop is long enough for extensive snorkeling, but it’s worth considering if that’s a priority.

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The Practical Side: Booking and Logistics

The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, which is a comfortable enough window to enjoy the voyage without feeling rushed. You can check availability for specific start times, which vary depending on the day and departure point. The meeting points are flexible, with options at Puerto de Playa Santiago, and the trip ends at the same place, making it convenient.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which makes planning hassle-free. The language options are English and Spanish, so communication shouldn’t be an issue.

What to Bring

Just bring comfortable clothes suitable for the weather and some sunscreen. Since large luggage or high-heeled shoes aren’t allowed, plan accordingly. If you want to swim, don’t forget towels and perhaps a change of clothes, as these aren’t provided.

What the Reviews Say

The positive reviews paint a pretty clear picture of a well-organized, enjoyable tour. Charlotte describes it as a “brilliant trip” with great views and loads of dolphins and whales. She highlights the comfortable seating and the helpful, friendly crew—something many travelers seem to agree on.

Thomas calls it “really exciting,” noting he saw “at least three groups of whales and dolphins,” indicating consistent wildlife sightings. Duncan sums it up as “just fantastic,” emphasizing the respect the crew shows for the whales and the professionalism of the operation. The inclusion of drinks, tapas, and time for swimming really rounds out the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing day at sea. If you’re interested in wildlife, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere, you’ll likely enjoy this experience. It’s also a good choice if you want a comfortable boat with options to sit in different spots and easy accessibility.

While families can probably enjoy it, it’s mainly suited to travelers comfortable on boats and who are okay with some variability in wildlife sightings. The sea condition-dependent nature isn’t a problem for most, but those who prefer guaranteed activities might want to consider that aspect.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes. The boat is spacious and has toilets, and the duration is manageable. However, always check specific age restrictions or consider your child’s comfort with boat trips.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkel equipment isn’t included, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for the weather. Layer if needed, and don’t forget sunscreen.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not really. The tour price includes the boat, snacks, drinks, fuel, and crew. Extras like towels and snorkel gear are not included.

Is the whale watching guaranteed?
No, whale sightings depend on sea conditions, but the reviews suggest good chances of seeing whales and dolphins.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, enough to enjoy the sea without feeling overly long.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meeting points vary depending on your booking, but common options include Puerto de Playa Santiago.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Most likely, whales and dolphins, including pilot whales and various other wildlife.

Is there any food onboard?
Yes, tapas and drinks are served during the trip, adding a nice touch to the outing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed yet wildlife-rich adventure on the water, this La Gomera whale-watching tour on a vintage boat ticks many boxes. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly crew, and the chance to see whales and dolphins makes it a memorable experience. The included snacks and the option to swim in crystal waters add extra layers of enjoyment.

It’s a tour that balances nature exploration with comfort and a touch of indulgence. Perfect for those who enjoy observing marine life with minimal fuss in a laid-back setting. Just keep in mind that sightings depend on the sea conditions, but even if you don’t see whales, the scenic cruise itself is worth the price.

In the end, this trip is best for travelers who love sea adventures, wildlife watching, and relaxing in good company. If you’re in La Gomera and looking for a memorable day on the water, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: