La Palma: Wildlife Viewing and Cumbre Vieja Boat Tour

Taking a boat tour around La Palma offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s marine life and rugged coastline from a different perspective. While I haven’t done this particular tour myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gathered details to help you decide if it’s worth your time. It’s designed for those who love encountering dolphins, whales, and turtles while enjoying a scenic boat ride along the coast.

What really draws people in are the opportunity to spot marine animals in their natural habitat and the unique underwater viewing experience. Plus, you get to approach notable coastal points, like La Cueva Bonita and the lava delta created by recent volcanic activity. On the flip side, some might find the 2.5-hour duration a bit short if you’re hoping for a full day out. This tour suits travelers who are curious about marine life and enjoy a relaxed, scenic cruise with comfortable amenities.

Key Points

• Marine wildlife spotting is the main focus, with frequent dolphin and whale sightings
• The underwater viewing platform offers a close-up look at cetaceans in action
• The scenic route includes iconic coastal points like La Cueva Bonita and lava flows
• The boat has multiple viewing areas, including an upper deck, sunbathing bow, and underwater windows
• Soft drinks are included, and food/drinks can be brought onboard for a personalized experience
• The tour is suitable for those comfortable in a boat but not pregnant women

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the La Palma Marine Tour

Planning to spend about 2.5 hours to 3 hours on the water, this tour is primarily focused on wildlife watching. The route is dedicated to searching for dolphins, whales, turtles, and other marine creatures. The crew, who are experienced, will help you spot and learn about these animals, making it an engaging experience, especially if you’re into marine life.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour departs from Puerto de Tazacorte, which is a charming coastal town. Once underway, the boat, a motor catamaran called Fancy II, takes you towards the northern waters of La Palma, where marine activity is lively. The route is often referred to as the Safari Route to the North, and it’s especially noted for its cetacean sightings.

The first part of the journey involves searching for dolphins and pilot whales. Several travelers mention that dolphins are quite commonly seen, with some experiencing close encounters. One review states, “We saw dolphins and pilot whales before heading toward the caves,” which hints at a pretty consistent chance of sightings.

Approach to Coastal Points

Besides the marine life, you’ll also get to pass by some iconic spots along the coast. These include:
– La Cueva Bonita, a notable sea cave
– Poris de Candelaria
– Playa de la Veta
– The lava delta, created by recent volcanic activity

These stops allow you to appreciate the impressive geology and volcanic history of La Palma from the water, adding a scenic element to the trip.

The Boat and Its Features

The Fancy II motor catamaran is designed for comfort and multiple viewing angles:
– The upper deck offers panoramic views but can sway a bit in the wind
– The bow is perfect for sunbathing and getting close to dolphins
– The stern has tables and seats, ideal if you bring your own food and want a relaxed spot
– The underwater views are accessible at key moments—these are a real highlight, letting you watch cetaceans jump and scratch from beneath the water

Soft drinks and water are included, making it easy to stay hydrated. You can also buy alcoholic drinks and snacks at the bar if you want something extra.

More Great Tours Nearby

Size and Group Dynamics

While the exact group size isn’t specified, these tours tend to be intimate enough to allow for a more personal experience but large enough for a lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed, social vibe but don’t want to feel lost in a crowd.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The reviews reflect that the crew is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. One reviewer said, “Our guide was attentive, informative and genuinely interested in sharing her knowledge,” which highlights the quality of the guidance you’ll receive. Many travelers appreciated the informative commentary, which added context about La Palma’s marine environment and geology.

The chance to see dolphins and pilot whales up close is what most people talk about, with one reviewer confidently saying, “We saw a lot of dolphins.” The underwater viewing platform makes this even more special, as you can see these animals jumping and scratching right beneath you.

What You Might Not Love

A potential downside is the duration—some may feel 2.5 hours is a bit brief, especially if you’re eager for a full-day adventure. Plus, the boat moves on open water, which can be a little choppy, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. It’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable aboard a moving vessel.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $69 per person, this tour offers good value considering the multiple viewing points, the possibility of marine sightings, and the scenic coastline. The inclusion of soft drinks and water adds to the overall value, and the possibility to bring your own food makes it flexible for a more personalized experience.

While some may wish for longer or more specific stops, the overall package delivers a solid chance to see La Palma’s marine wildlife and coastline without a hefty price tag.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for marine life enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed cruise with scenic coastal views. If you’re traveling with kids, they might enjoy the underwater windows and animal sightings, but keep in mind the boat’s movement and the tour duration. It’s also a great choice if you’re interested in learning about La Palma’s volcanic landscape from the water.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxing, wildlife-focused boat trip that combines the thrill of spotting dolphins and whales with scenic coastal points, this tour hits the mark. The friendly, knowledgeable crew makes a difference, and the boat’s multiple viewing options make the experience more engaging than a simple cruise.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, the 2.5-hour journey is enough to leave you with memorable wildlife encounters and stunning vistas. The included drinks and the possibility to bring your own snacks make it feel personalized and relaxed.

This tour is best for travelers who value marine wildlife watching, scenic coastlines, and a comfortable boat experience. If your goal is to see La Palma from the water, learn about its marine life, and enjoy some peaceful ocean time, you’ll probably find this tour well worth it.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour can be enjoyable for families, especially since children tend to love spotting dolphins and whales, but keep in mind that the boat moves on open water, which might be a concern for very young kids or those sensitive to motion sickness.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is offered with live guides speaking Spanish, English, and German, so chances are you’ll find a guide who can help you understand what you’re seeing.

Are food and drinks included?
Soft drinks and water are included in the price. You can also purchase alcoholic drinks and snacks at the bar, or bring your own food onboard.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts around 2.5 hours, with some tours possibly extending up to 3 hours depending on conditions and sightings.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Puerto de Tazacorte, a lovely coastal area with easy access.

Is this tour good for whale watching?
Yes, the tour is dedicated to searching for whales, dolphins, and turtles, with many reviews confirming frequent sightings.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for being on the water—layers are a good idea in case it gets breezy.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women aren’t advised to join this activity, and large luggage or bags aren’t allowed onboard for safety reasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your itinerary shifts.

In all, this La Palma boat tour offers a friendly, accessible way to connect with the island’s marine environment. It’s a solid choice if you’re after wildlife encounters, scenic coastal views, and a comfortable boat ride that won’t break the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: