Puerto Rico : 2 hour Dolphin Catamaran Excursion

Thinking about adding a dolphin watching trip to your Gran Canaria itinerary? This 2-hour catamaran tour is a popular option for those eager to see marine life from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. While it’s not the longest cruise out there, it offers a taste of the sea and the chance to spot dolphins, turtles, and even whales if luck is on your side.

What we genuinely like about this experience is its affordable price point—around $40 per person—and its convenient location in the south of the island. Plus, the onboard bar with a free soft drink adds a nice touch of relaxing refreshment. However, it’s not without some hiccups, especially with organization and the return trip logistics, which are worth considering.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a short, straightforward marine adventure without the fuss of longer cruises. It’s ideal if your main goal is dolphin sightings and enjoying the sun in a casual setting. Just keep in mind that a few reviews mention some logistical annoyances, so it’s best for those who don’t mind a little unpredictability.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible at around $40 per person, making it a reasonable option for a quick sea adventure.
• Strong chance of dolphin sightings, with some reports of seeing dolphins for extended periods.
• Includes a complimentary soft drink onboard, adding a bit of comfort during the short trip.
• Meeting locations are limited to the south of Gran Canaria, so plan your pickup accordingly.
• Some reviews highlight logistical issues, particularly with the return trip and organization.
• Suitable for travelers wanting a quick, fun marine experience without a lengthy commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Dolphin Catamaran Tour

On this trip, you’ll join a comfortable and spacious catamaran in Puerto Rico or be picked up from a nearby hotel in the south of Gran Canaria. Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat’s relaxed vibe and the friendly crew eager to give you a memorable outing. The boat’s design emphasizes comfort, so you can sit back and enjoy the views as you glide across the waters of the southern coast.

Embarking on the Journey

The tour lasts roughly 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. It’s a group experience, so if you’re traveling in peak season, expect some company. The pickup service is straightforward—just inform the operator of your hotel or closest pickup point during the reservation process, and they’ll handle the rest. Keep in mind, the pickup area is limited to the south of Gran Canaria, from Bahia Feliz down to Mogan.

The Marine Wildlife Sightings

The main draw? Dolphins. These playful creatures often appear, sometimes for quite long stretches, as one reviewer noted: “Lots of dolphins. We were able to see them for a long time.” The crew’s confidence in dolphin sightings is high enough that if you don’t see dolphins or whales, they’ll offer you a return ticket for another trip. That’s a reassuring policy, especially since marine wildlife can never be guaranteed.

Apart from dolphins, you might spot turtles, flying fish, and even whales. The waters around Gran Canaria are rich with marine life, and the crew does their best to keep you in sight of animals when possible. It’s worth noting that the trip is primarily about watching for marine life rather than snorkel stops or other activities, so if you’re after water sports or swimming, this might not be the best fit.

The Onboard Experience

During the cruise, you can relax in the spacious seating and enjoy the warm sunshine. The onboard bar serves a complimentary soft drink—a simple but pleasant touch to keep everyone refreshed. You’re encouraged to bring sunscreen, especially since there’s limited shade on deck, and to take seasickness medication if you are prone to feeling queasy.

A highlight for many is just being out on the water, with beautiful coastal views and the chance to see animals that are often elusive from the shore. The crew is generally friendly and helpful, adding to the laid-back atmosphere.

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The Logistics and Organization

One of the more contentious points, based on reviews, is organization. While the pick-up process generally goes smoothly (with everything arriving on time), the return trip has caused some frustration.

For example, one reviewer shared that they were taken back to a different port (Puerto de Mogán) instead of Puerto Rico, which was not communicated upfront. This led to a long walk in the sun with minimal information, especially challenging for those with mobility issues.

On top of that, the disorganized return process and driver discussions about who should drive which passengers add to the perception of a lack of structure. The overall cruise, however, itself is enjoyable and well-paced, but travelers should be prepared for potential logistical surprises.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if your main goal is dolphin spotting and enjoying a short, relaxing boat ride. The price is reasonable, and the probability of seeing dolphins is high enough to make the trip worthwhile. The experience is straightforward and doesn’t demand much physical effort, which is perfect for a casual day on the water.

However, if you’re sensitive to poor organization or worried about the return logistics, you might find this aspect frustrating. It’s also worth noting that food isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks if desired, especially for longer waits.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is well-suited for marine life enthusiasts looking for a quick glimpse of dolphins and whales, families with children who enjoy boat rides, and sun-seekers wanting a relaxing outing in the south of Gran Canaria. It’s also good for travelers on a budget or those who prefer a shorter, more casual trip over longer or more elaborate excursions.

If you’re not too concerned about exact logistics or don’t mind minor organizational hiccups, this trip offers a decent chance to see some fantastic marine creatures in a friendly, relaxed setting. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it’s honest and straightforward.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour dolphin catamaran tour provides a solid, affordable option to enjoy the waters of Gran Canaria, especially if dolphins are high on your list. You’ll love the chance to see playful dolphins chasing the boat and the peaceful ocean views that make the trip special.

The inclusion of a free drink, the comfortable boat, and the confident dolphin-sighting guarantee are definite pluses. Still, be prepared for potential logistical surprises and understand that this is a short, mainly wildlife-focused cruise rather than a full-day adventure.

For travelers who want a low-key, fun marine experience and are okay with a few organizational quirks, this tour can offer a memorable moment out on the Atlantic. Just keep your expectations realistic, pack sunscreen, and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the water and see marine life without it feeling rushed.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Puerto Rico or nearby pickup locations in the south of Gran Canaria, with options to be picked up from local hotels.

What animals are typically seen?
You have a good chance of spotting dolphins, often for long periods. Turtles, flying fish, and whales are also possible sightings.

Does the tour include food?
No, food is not included. There is an onboard bar with a complimentary soft drink, so you can stay refreshed, but consider bringing snacks if desired.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, and if you’re prone to seasickness, take appropriate medication beforehand. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothing and possibly a hat.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially those interested in wildlife and ocean views. Keep in mind the sea can be choppy, so children might need some reassurance.

Are there any issues with the organization?
Some reviews mention problems with the return trip and overall logistics, which can result in longer waits and walking in the sun. Be prepared for minor inconveniences.

Would I do this again?
If you’re after a quick, affordable dolphin-watching trip and don’t mind some organizational quirks, it’s a good choice. For a more structured or longer cruise, consider other options.

In the end, this tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy the Atlantic’s marine life in a relaxed setting. It’s best for those wanting a quick peek at dolphins and whales without fuss. Just remember to set your expectations accordingly and enjoy the natural beauty of Gran Canaria’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: