Puerto Colon: Dolphin and Whale Watching Speedboat Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a quick, fun, and nature-packed adventure on Tenerife’s southern coast, this Dolphin and Whale Watching Speedboat Cruise might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a mix of wildlife spotting, scenic views, and a splash of the sea with swimming and snorkeling—all in just three hours.

From the reviews I’ve seen, people generally walk away with a big smile, especially praising the knowledgeable guides and the amazing animal sightings. I love how this trip feels personal and respectful of the ocean environment, which is crucial when you’re out in the wild.

A small thing to consider? Since it’s a boat trip, the sea can get choppy, especially in rough weather, so if you’re prone to seasickness, pack accordingly. Still, it’s a solid choice for those who want a lively, engaging experience that’s suitable for active travelers and nature lovers alike.

If you’re into wildlife, scenic coastlines, and a bit of adventure in the sun, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially good if you’re eager to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat without spending all day at sea.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: Expect to see dolphins, whales, and possibly turtles, with the chance to spot other marine creatures like flying fish and jellyfish.
• Beautiful scenery: The tour offers stunning views of Tenerife’s south coast, cliffs, and on clear days, even Teide and La Gomera.
• Interactive experience: Guides share stories and info about Atlantic marine life, making it educational as well as fun.
• Swimming and snorkeling: The stop in a bay lets you cool off with a swim or explore underwater with provided gear.
• Flexible and straightforward: No hotel pickup needed, just meet at Puerto Colon, making it easy to fit into your day.
• Good value: At around $74, it includes guiding, snacks, drinks, and gear—lots of fun packed into a compact trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Speedboat Cruise

This tour is all about maximizing your time on the water. You’ll hop aboard a speedboat departing from Puerto Colon, and for the next three hours, you’ll be cruising along the coast, searching for whales and dolphins, enjoying the wind in your hair, and soaking up the sunshine.

The start is simple—just meet at gate 3 in Puerto Colon before departure. There’s no hotel pickup, which makes it a hassle-free plan if you’re already nearby or staying in the area. Once aboard, the captain and guide will explain what to look for and share interesting tidbits about the Atlantic ocean’s marine life.

Wildlife Spotting

The highlight for most travelers is spotting playful dolphins and majestic whales. Multiple reviews mention seeing spotted dolphins, which are not always easy to find, making the encounter even more special. One guest expressed gratitude for witnessing a variety of animals, including turtles, pilot whales, and even a manowar jellyfish. The guides’ deep knowledge and respect for nature shine through, making the experience feel both authentic and responsible.

The chance to see whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures seems to be the main draw, and many reviews confirm this. People report quick, exciting sightings within the first 40 minutes of the trip, which creates a sense of anticipation and thrill.

Scenic Stops and Swimming

Part of what makes this trip stand out is the stop in a bay for a swim and snorkel session. The bay provides a calm spot to cool off—something that travelers, especially on hot days, really appreciate. You’ll be given snorkel gear, and the water is clear enough to see a variety of fish and marine life.

One traveler mentioned how they loved the respect for nature the guides showed, and the belief that responsible wildlife viewing adds to the overall experience. After swimming, you can kick back with a refreshing drink and a tasty sandwich provided on board—an easy way to recharge before heading back.

The Cruise Back

On the return leg, you’ll cruise along the coast, passing by little ports, beaches, and natural swimming pools. The views are quite picturesque, with many travelers noting the beautiful landscapes and cliffs. On clear days, you might catch sight of Teide volcano or the neighboring island of La Gomera, which adds a scenic dimension to the trip.

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The Experience’s Practicalities

This trip lasts exactly three hours, making it perfect for a half-day activity. It’s priced at about $74 per person, which includes guidance, snorkeling gear, a sandwich, and a drink—quite reasonable for the value of the experience.

However, note that there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet directly at Puerto Colon’s gate 3. The tour is available in Spanish and English, with live guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. For those wanting a more personalized experience, private groups can be arranged.

What to Bring

Pack light but thoughtfully: a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Since the tour is weather-dependent, check the forecast before booking, especially if you have a long journey to the meeting point.

Considerations

• Sea conditions can vary, so if you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication or consider if this trip is suitable for you.
• The tour is not recommended for strollers or non-folding wheelchairs, indicating it’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat.
• The experience is designed for those seeking a lively, interactive adventure rather than a relaxed, lazy day at sea.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

The rave reviews confirm this trip hits the mark for many. Alison summed it up perfectly, saying, “This was amazing. Nico the captain was knowledgeable and showed us a different side of Tenerife. Seeing spotted dolphins and a turtle was incredible.”

Dominik appreciated the respect for nature and the personal touch, noting how connected they felt with the marine life and how the guides’ knowledge made the trip special. Anna-Alina highlighted the friendliness of the guide, especially the effort to translate for non-English speakers, making everyone feel welcome.

Jane enjoyed the adventure aspect, especially the chance to see whales, dolphins, sharks, and turtles—plus snorkelling fun—and appreciated the captain’s friendliness. Another traveler called it “an absolutely loved trip,” praising the “friendly and knowledgeable guide,” as well as the included refreshments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and those who enjoy a small-group, interactive experience. If you’re looking to see marine wildlife in their natural environment, this is a solid choice. It appeals particularly to travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, snorkelling, and wildlife encounters, without the need for a full day at sea.

It’s also suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat, with no age restrictions noted, but those with mobility issues might want to check specifics since non-folding strollers aren’t allowed. The tour’s lively pace and focus on wildlife make it less ideal for travelers seeking a slow, relaxing cruise or a purely family-oriented activity—though older kids who enjoy marine life and water activities could find it a hit.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you will need to meet at gate 3 in Puerto Colon before the departure time.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to make the most of the swimming and snorkeling stop.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, including the boat ride, swimming stop, and scenic cruise back.

What animals might I see?
Expect to see dolphins, whales, turtles, and possibly flying fish and jellyfish, depending on the day.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included if you want to explore underwater during the stop.

Are there any age restrictions?
The info doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it notes that non-folding strollers and wheelchairs are not allowed, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat.

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

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour is subject to weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a lively, wildlife-focused adventure with the chance to see dolphins, whales, and other marine animals in their natural habitat, this speedboat cruise from Puerto Colon offers good value and memorable moments. The combination of wildlife sightings, scenic coastal views, and the opportunity to cool off in the sea makes it a well-rounded half-day outing.

The knowledgeable guides and the chance to connect with the ocean environment make this trip stand out. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a taste of Tenerife’s marine life without committing a full day to the water. Just remember to bring your sun protection and be prepared for potential choppiness—then sit back and enjoy the ride.

In the end, this tour seems to hit the sweet spot for those craving an engaging, wildlife-rich experience with friendly guides and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a chance to see Tenerife’s coast from a fresh, exciting perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: