Private 2 hour Whale Watching Tour

If you’re heading to Tenerife and love the idea of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, a private 2-hour whale watching tour might just be the highlight of your trip. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info available, it’s a solid option for anyone wanting an intimate, educational, and respectful wildlife experience.

What catches our eye? First, the small-group setting ensures you get an unobstructed view and personalized attention. Second, the knowledgeable biologist guides mean you’re not just watching animals but understanding them—plus, listening to whales and dolphins through a hydrophone is a real treat.

A slight consideration is that the tour’s duration is just about two hours. If you’re craving a longer adventure or exploring different marine spots, you might find it a bit brief. But for a quick, focused encounter with marine life, this setup is hard to beat.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value eco-friendly wildlife watching, want a customized experience, and enjoy learning from passionate guides. Families, couples, or small groups alike will find it a rewarding way to spend part of their Tenerife stay.

This experience made our article of Tenerife’s 11 Top 2-Hour Tours.

Key Points

• Small-group experience guarantees better views and interaction.
• Expert biologist guides enhance your understanding of marine life.
• Responsibly observing whales and dolphins minimizes habitat disturbance.
• Listening to marine mammals on a hydrophone adds a memorable touch.
• Photos emailed after the trip help preserve your memories.
• Convenient meeting point at Puerto Colón Marina simplifies logistics.

The Experience You Can Expect

Hassle-Free Meeting and Location

Starting at the convenient Puerto Colón Marina, the tour is easy to find with ample parking. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early to settle in, use the nearby bathrooms, and get ready for departure. The meeting point is straightforward—no confusing directions or long waits.

The Boat and Safety Briefing

Once aboard the custom-designed 8-meter whale-watching boat, you’ll be greeted by the captain and given a brief safety overview. The boat’s size suits a small group (up to 11 people), which means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the crew can attend to your needs more personally. The vessel is comfortable, clean, and well-equipped for wildlife watching.

Marine Ecosystem and Wildlife Education

Before heading out, the biologist staff will introduce you to the local marine ecosystem, explaining the species you’re likely to see. Expect to learn about whales, dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles, among others. The didactic materials provided are helpful for kids and adults alike, making the experience educational but accessible.

Reaching the Hotspot

The captain typically drives no more than about three miles offshore to find the best spots for whale and dolphin sightings. This short trip keeps the experience intimate and exciting. The crew is committed to respecting marine regulations, ensuring that the animals are not disturbed during your encounter.

Wildlife Watching and Live Commentary

Once in the area, the boat slows down, and the crew carefully approaches the cetaceans. Throughout this time, your guide shares insights into behaviors and biology, making each sighting more meaningful. Many travelers have noted how quickly the whales and dolphins appear—some reviews mention spotting marine life within just ten minutes of departure.

Listening to Whales and Dolphins

A standout feature is the use of a hydrophone, which allows everyone on board to listen live to the whales’ calls and dolphins’ clicks. This immersive element adds a layer of connection to the animals, making the experience more vivid and memorable.

Photos and Memories

After the tour, your wildlife encounters are captured on camera. These photos are emailed to you, allowing you to relive the moment and share your experience with friends. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated receiving these images, especially with the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• All local taxes—no hidden fees.
• Live commentary from knowledgeable biologist staff.
• Hydrophone access to listen to whales and dolphins.
• Post-tour photos emailed to you for free.

Not Included:

• Food and drinks—but you’re welcome to bring your own, which is perfect for a quick snack or refreshing beverage during the trip.

Pricing and Value

At $521.37 per group (up to 11 people), the tour might seem pricey at first glance, but it’s important to look at what that includes. Private, small-group wildlife experiences often command higher prices, and with this tour, you’re paying for exclusivity, expert guides, and a responsible approach. Given the consistent 5-star reviews and the personalized attention, most travelers find the cost justified—especially when compared to larger, less intimate tours.

The value also extends to peace of mind: the crew’s dedication to respecting marine habitats and ensuring natural, non-intrusive encounters. Plus, the photos and live sound recordings add an extra layer of memories to cherish.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

From the reviews, it’s clear that this tour consistently delivers a high-quality experience. Many mention how quickly they saw whales and dolphins, with some even describing the guides as passionate, professional, and caring. One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guide Ion, highlighting his ability to keep teenagers engaged with interesting facts. Others noted that the boat respected the animals’ space, which is crucial in wildlife watching.

Several reviews emphasize the small-group format, which makes the trip more personal and less rushed. The ability to listen to the whales on a hydrophone, combined with the educational commentary, makes this a truly immersive experience. Families with kids, in particular, have appreciated the friendly, professional guides who made the trip accessible and fun.

A recurring theme is how respectful wildlife viewing enhances the experience. Many mention that the crew’s approach allows for close sightings without disturbing the animals, aligning with responsible tourism values.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early at the marina—parking is available, but it’s good to have some extra time.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos; the email delivery makes it easy to keep memories alive.
• Pack some snacks and drinks if you’re hungry—food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed onboard.
• Dress comfortably and consider layers; the sea breeze can be cool, even on sunny days.
• If you have back or neck issues, or are pregnant, check the restrictions, as the boat is small and stability might be a concern for some.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values ethical wildlife encounters, this private tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience with expert guides and aren’t in a rush. Families with kids who can handle a boat ride will appreciate the educational aspect, but those with mobility or health concerns should consider the restrictions.

People interested in listening to whale calls, learning about marine animals, and capturing memorable photos will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also suitable for those seeking a peaceful, respectful way to connect with nature, away from noisy crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but impactful experience suitable for those with limited time or looking to combine other activities.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Puerto Colón Marina, with clear directions and a convenient meeting point. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those with neck/back problems, mobility issues, recent surgeries, or over 120 kg with back problems should check restrictions, as the boat is small.

What is included in the price?
All local taxes, live commentary by biologist staff, hydrophone listening, and photos emailed after the trip are included. Food and drinks are not, but you may bring your own.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 11, which keeps the experience intimate and comfortable.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include whales, dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles. Sightings are typically quick and close, as reported by past guests.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private whale watching tour offers a thoughtful, engaging, and responsible way to experience Tenerife’s marine life. The combination of expert guides, respectful wildlife practices, and memorable features like hydrophone listening makes it stand out. It’s ideal for those looking for an intimate connection with the ocean, a bit of education, and a chance to see whales and dolphins up close.

While the price might seem high for just two hours, the personalized approach, quality of guides, and the opportunity to capture photos and listen to whales justify the cost for many travelers. If you’re seeking a smooth, meaningful, and well-organized marine adventure, this tour is worth considering.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family wanting a fun and educational outing, or a couple craving a peaceful escape on the water, this experience has something to offer. Just remember to book in advance—on average, it’s booked 47 days ahead—and prepare for a memorable journey into Tenerife’s vibrant marine world.