Puerto Colon : Whale & Dolphins Sailing Excursion

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Tenerife’s oceanic wildlife up close, this whale and dolphin sailing tour from Puerto Colon might just be what you’re looking for. Designed to bring you face-to-face with some of the most fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat, this trip combines wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and local flavors into one well-rounded adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the chance to see whales and dolphins swimming freely — a spectacle that’s as memorable as it is breathtaking. Second, the small-group format ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, letting you ask questions and truly enjoy the environment.

Of course, no trip is perfect. The sea can be unpredictable, and if you’re prone to seasickness, you’ll want to prepare accordingly. Also, while the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for those comfortable on the water and with a bit of patience for the marine wildlife sightings.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, enjoy a good boat ride, and appreciate local cuisine. If you’re after a memorable day exploring Tenerife’s coast with the chance of spotting majestic whales and playful dolphins, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: See the largest Pilot whale population in Europe plus dolphins and turtles in their natural setting.
Comfort & Intimacy: Small group experience with limited to 10 participants, making it easier to connect with the crew and ask questions.
Scenic Route: Journey along the coast of Tenerife, especially through the Teno-Rasca Conservation Zone, with stunning views.
Snorkeling & Relaxation: Visit a secluded beach, snorkel or swim in clear blue waters, and enjoy a peaceful setting away from crowded beaches.
Tasty Local Food: Indulge in Canarian cuisine for lunch, with drinks and fruit provided, adding a delicious local touch to your day.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains share insights about marine wildlife, hydrophone recordings, and local sea life, enriching your understanding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Puerto Colon, you’ll board a comfortable sailboat, ready to head out into the waters surrounding Tenerife. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, will set your expectations for the day, emphasizing sightings of whales, dolphins, and turtles.

The first part of the trip takes you along the coast within the Teno-Rasca Special Conservation Zone, an area known for its rich marine biodiversity. Here, you’ll have the chance to see Pilot whales, which are notably the largest population of their kind in Europe. As you cruise, the crew will make use of hydrophone equipment — basically underwater microphones — so you can listen to the calls of whales and dolphins, which is a real treat for animal lovers.

Close-up encounters with dolphins splashing and swimming freely are often the highlight of the day, with multiple reviews mentioning how many can be seen at once. One guest even noted seeing “three different species of dolphins and a bunch of pilot whales,” which speaks to the diversity you might encounter.

The boat journey also includes a visit to Diego Hernández Beach, a secluded spot accessible only by boat or foot. Here, the crew anchors the boat, allowing guests to swim or snorkel in the calm, clear waters. This part of the trip, roughly halfway through, offers a peaceful break and the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of this hidden gem.

While the sea can be choppy at times, the boat is described as beautiful and comfortable, with plenty of space. One reviewer praised the “wonderful host and skipper” for their attentive service, making the trip not only scenic but also comfortable.

Lunch is served on board — a delicious local Canarian meal that adds a flavorful touch to your day. Drinks and fresh fruit are included, ensuring you stay refreshed. The crew often takes the time to chat about the marine wildlife, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable.

As the tour winds down, you’ll sail back to Puerto Colon, hopefully with plenty of photos, new facts, and maybe even a few stories of playful dolphins or a curious whale surfacing nearby.

The Duration and Options

The tour options range from 3 to 6 hours. The longer, 6-hour version is particularly suitable if you want to include a visit to Los Gigantes or spend more time swimming and watching for dolphins. It’s worth checking availability and starting times since they vary, but both options generally provide ample time to enjoy the sea and wildlife.

Price & Value

At around $79 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and the hydrophone experience. Smaller group sizes mean more personalized attention, and the chance to listen to whale songs adds a unique dimension many tours don’t offer.

Review Highlights from Travelers

Guests consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides. One shared, “Our captain was very friendly and on time,” and another mentioned, “We saw whales and dolphins and the captain introduced us to them.” These reviews underscore that the crew genuinely cares about making the trip memorable.

Dolphin sightings are especially notable — “Never seen so many dolphins at the same time,” one guest exclaimed, highlighting the tour’s success for wildlife enthusiasts. The food, often described as delicious and authentic, also earns praise, making the experience both fun and tasty.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love marine life and want a chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy small-group experiences and prefer a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.

While families with children can enjoy this trip, travelers should be comfortable on the water and prepared for the possibility of seasickness. Those looking for a combination of wildlife, scenery, and local cuisine will find this tour hits all the right notes.

It’s not the best option if you’re extremely seasick or if you prefer land-based activities, but for nature lovers and curious travelers, it’s a memorable way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the option you choose.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Puerto Colon, specifically at Pantalan number 2, and ends back there at the conclusion of the trip.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, hydrophone listening, a local Canarian lunch, drinks, and fruit.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour is limited to a small group of 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I go snorkeling?
Yes, at the secluded Diego Hernández Beach, you can swim or snorkel in the clear waters.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to enjoy the day comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, children should be comfortable on boats and aware of seasickness risks.

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

Is there a private option?
Yes, you can opt for a private boat for up to 10 people if you prefer a more exclusive experience.

How good are the reviews?
With a 4.9-star rating from 33 reviews, travelers are quite pleased with what they’ve experienced.

Final Thoughts

This whale and dolphin sailing excursion from Puerto Colon offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife viewing, scenic sailing, and local flavor. The opportunity to listen to whale calls using hydrophone equipment and the chance to see majestic creatures swim nearby makes it more than just a boat ride.

The small-group format and friendly guides create a relaxed environment that encourages curiosity and conversation. Plus, the included lunch and drinks make it feel like a full-day adventure rather than just a quick tour.

While the unpredictability of wildlife sightings means you might not see dolphins or whales every time, the consistently high reviews suggest most travelers leave with plenty of memorable moments. The trip is best suited for those who are fascinated by marine life and enjoy a leisurely, personal experience on the water.

If you’re after a genuine connection with Tenerife’s marine environment, combined with a comfortable boat ride and tasty local food, this tour might be just the thing to add some magic to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: