Las Galletas: Whale & Dolphin Tour with Local Skipper

If you’re heading to Tenerife and craving a close-up encounter with whales, dolphins, and maybe even turtles, this Whale & Dolphin Tour from Las Galletas might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into it thoroughly, and from the glowing reviews and detailed info, it’s clear this trip offers a memorable way to connect with the ocean’s most playful and majestic creatures.

What really catches our eye? First, the expert local crew—they’re praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm. Second, the small group setting means you’re not stuck in a crowded boat, which makes the experience more intimate and relaxing. One small caveat? The trip can be affected by weather—so choppy waters might limit some activities like snorkeling. Still, overall, this tour seems well-suited for those who love wildlife, appreciate good food, and want a smooth, personal experience.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to combine wildlife spotting with a bit of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with a small group of friends, if you love the idea of seeing whales and dolphins in their natural environment, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Small group sizes (limited to 10 participants) create a more personal experience.
• Expert local crew delivers friendly service and plenty of interesting facts.
• Wildlife sightings include whales, dolphins, and possibly turtles—depending on luck and weather.
• Snorkeling and swimming are available, with equipment provided, in crystal-clear waters.
• Delicious homemade food is included, making the trip feel like a culinary treat along with wildlife watching.
• Flexible bookings with options for pickup or self-arrival, plus full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting and Departure

Your adventure begins either with an optional pickup from your hotel or by making your way to the port at Paseo Espigon las Galletas. The meeting point is straightforward—dock number 2—and the crew from Tonina Cruises will welcome you aboard the Cruz del Sur, a spacious 14-meter yacht.

The skippers are friendly and eager to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Expect a quick safety briefing and an outline of the planned route. The small group size (max 10) means you’ll get plenty of personal attention, plus room to ask questions or just relax and take in the views.

Out on the Water

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the coast, heading towards the whale and dolphin sighting area. This part of the trip is where the real magic begins. Many reviewers mention how attentive and informative the crew is—they’re quick to share facts about the wildlife and the local environment.

The chances of seeing whales and dolphins are high, especially since the crew are experienced at locating them. People have raved about sightings of pilot whales, dolphins playing around the boat, and even turtles. As one happy traveler put it, “We saw Pilot whales, amazing animals. The local guide explained the habitats.”

And if you’re lucky, the waters may also reveal flying fish or other marine wonders, making each trip unique.

Snorkeling and Swimming

After wildlife viewing, the boat anchors close to the coast for some downtime. Here, you can swim or snorkel in the clear waters—equipment is provided, though some reviews mention that goggles and masks might be scratched. The scenery is beautiful, and many say it’s a highlight to be able to jump into the sea directly from the boat, especially with the peaceful surroundings.

Be aware that weather conditions can impact this part of the trip. Some travelers experienced choppy waters that made snorkeling less comfortable, or even canceled it altogether. The crew is understanding if you feel seasick—one review highlighted how they took extra care of a passenger who got seasick and even offered a free ride back to the hotel if needed.

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Lunch and Coastal Views

While you’re enjoying the water, the crew prepares a homemade, local-style lunch. The reviews consistently mention the quality and tasty nature of the food, which often includes typical Canary Island dishes or tapas-style bites. This isn’t just a quick snack—it’s a well-prepared spread with drinks included, adding a nice social element to the trip.

Once the meal is finished, the boat heads back toward the coast, sailing along Punta de Rasca and other scenic spots. The coastline views are stunning, and many guests find it relaxing to just sit back and take in the natural beauty of Tenerife’s southern shores.

Return and Optional Transfer

Back at the port, you’ll say farewell to the crew. The tour ends there unless you’ve booked the optional hotel transfer, which makes it easy to head straight back to your accommodation without fuss.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included:
– Food and drinks (homemade lunch and beverages)
– Snorkeling equipment
– Safety briefing and guidance from a knowledgeable crew

Not Included:
– Transport from your hotel (unless you’ve chosen the pickup option)

What to bring:
– Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for protection
– Swimwear and towel for swimming or snorkeling
– Comfortable clothes and a jacket in case it’s breezy
– Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended

Weather considerations:
Bad weather can lead to cancellations or choppier seas, which might affect snorkeling and swimming availability. Always check the forecast before your trip.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

The reviews are nearly unanimous in praising the knowledgeable guides and the small group atmosphere. Guests love the opportunity to see whales and dolphins up close, with one reviewer saying, “We saw Pilot whales, amazing animals,” and another noting how friendly and attentive the crew was to their needs, including helping with seasickness.

The delicious homemade lunch also gets high marks—it’s not just a snack but a substantial, tasty meal that makes the trip feel like a full experience. Plus, the coastal scenery and the chance to relax and socialise make this outing feel well-rounded.

What Could Be Better?

A few reviews mention that the trip can be affected by weather, with choppier waters making snorkeling uncomfortable or less enjoyable. Some also noted that snorkel gear could be better quality, but that’s a minor point considering the overall value and experience. Notably, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so keep mobility considerations in mind.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re passionate about marine life, love small-group settings, and appreciate tasty local food, this trip hits many sweet spots. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed yet adventure-filled day with a high chance of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

It’s also a good choice if you’re comfortable on boats and don’t mind the possibility of choppy seas. If you’re traveling with young children, be aware that they might need extra support for the boat ride or be sensitive to seasickness. The guides are friendly and accommodating, but the experience is primarily geared toward adults or older children.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, giving plenty of time for wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Is food included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a homemade, local-style lunch with a selection of drinks, making the trip feel like a culinary as well as wildlife adventure.

Can I book a pickup?
Yes, there’s an optional hotel pickup from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Otherwise, you can make your own way to the port at Paseo Espigon las Galletas.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, comfortable clothes, and a jacket for the boat ride.

Is snorkeling worth it?
Many guests find snorkeling to be a highlight, though weather and water conditions can affect visibility. Equipment is provided, but some reviews note the gear might be scratched.

Can I see whales and dolphins every trip?
While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed, as wildlife behavior is unpredictable. The crew is experienced at finding them, though.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s more suited for adults and older children comfortable on boats. Not recommended for wheelchair users.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour could be canceled or affected by bad weather, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans. Full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Las Galletas Whale & Dolphin Tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife adventure, relaxing scenery, and good food. The small group size and friendly crew make it stand out as a more personal way to experience Tenerife’s marine life. While weather can influence the day’s activities, the overall reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat without feeling crowded.

If you’re after an authentic, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, great coastal views, and a tasty homemade lunch, this trip could be exactly what you’re looking for. Just keep in mind the weather and prepare accordingly, and you’ll likely leave with some wonderful memories—and maybe even a few new animal friends.

Happy wildlife watching and snorkel-ing!

You can check availability for your dates here: