Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour by Sailboat

Thinking about adding a boat trip to your Tenerife itinerary? This 3-hour whale and dolphin watching tour by sailboat offers a chance to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, all while relaxing on the water. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out—and what to consider before booking—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

What really caught our eye are two things: first, the opportunity to get up close with marine life, including whales and dolphins, which is always a thrill, and second, the relaxed vibe onboard, with snacks, drinks, and even a swim in the Atlantic. But, like any tour, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as the limited time and the fact that snorkeling gear isn’t included. If you’re someone who loves nature, enjoys being on the water, and doesn’t mind a flexible schedule, this trip could be a perfect addition to your stay.

That said, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite popular, so availability might fill up, especially during peak seasons. It’s suited for travelers looking for a mix of wildlife spotting, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of Tenerife’s marine world will likely find this tour fulfilling.

Key Points

• Whale and dolphin sightings in their natural environment are the main draw.
• The 3-hour duration offers a relaxed, manageable experience.
• Enjoy snacks, drinks, and a meal onboard, with the option to swim and snorkel.
• The tour departs from Puerto Colón and explores the southern coast of Tenerife.
• This experience is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
• Price point at $67 per person provides good value, considering the wildlife and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re dreaming of seeing whales and dolphins in the wild, this tour could tick that box. What makes it particularly appealing is the chance to see up to 26 species of marine life, including blue whales, orcas, pilot whales, and the ever-popular dolphins. The excitement isn’t just about spotting animals; it’s about the thrill of watching them behave naturally, and the boat’s design helps you get close without disturbing them.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at Puerto Colón, Dock 8, a well-known departure point in Tenerife’s south. Once onboard, the captain takes you along the coast, where you’ll have the chance for whale and dolphin watching. Most reviews highlight how close you can get to the creatures, with several travelers mentioning how “very close to the whales and dolphins” they felt, which is a huge plus for wildlife enthusiasts.

You’ll also make a stop at a private beach if you want to take a dip or snorkel. While snorkel equipment isn’t included, the waters of the Atlantic are known for their clarity and interesting marine life, so bringing your own gear could be worthwhile if you’re into snorkeling.

Wildlife Encounters

Many reviews echo the excitement of actually seeing Pilot Whales and other species, which can turn out to be surprisingly emotional moments. One reviewer described watching a family of whales swimming around the boat for an hour, calling it “brilliant” and “very interesting.” This direct interaction with marine mammals is what makes this tour memorable.

The Onboard Experience

The boat itself is described as fully-equipped and comfortable, with onboard showers and space to relax. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, with guides providing information in both Spanish and English—something that adds value if you’re curious about marine life. The guides’ knowledge and attentiveness come highly recommended, with several reviews praising the helpful, welcoming staff.

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Food and Drinks

A definite highlight for many is the included snacks, drinks, and a meal. While some mention the drinks are plentiful, a reviewer pointed out that drinks weren’t provided for the entire duration, so if you’re thirsty or want to stay refreshed, it’s good to be aware. Still, the choice of snacks and the overall hospitality add a nice touch to the experience.

Snorkeling and Swimming

If swimming is your thing, you’ll appreciate the chance to take a dip in the Atlantic at a scenic spot. The waters are described as crystal clear, perfect for those who want to combine wildlife watching with some fun in the water. Just remember to bring your own snorkel gear if you want to explore beneath the surface.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Departure and Duration

The tour lasts around 3 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability. Departing from Puerto Colón, the boat heads along the southern coast, a region known for its diverse marine life.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour is described as intimate, with only seven people in some groups, which feels just right for a more personal experience. Smaller groups allow for better wildlife encounters and a more relaxed atmosphere onboard.

Pricing and Value

At $67 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the number of whale and dolphin sightings, the possibility of snorkeling, and the included snacks and drinks. It’s a great option for travelers who want a wildlife-focused experience without breaking the bank.

Accessibility and Family Friendliness

It’s reassuring to know the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages. If you’re traveling with children or family members with mobility needs, this tour could be a good choice.

What to Bring

Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat), swimwear, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since it’s an outdoor boat trip, dressing in layers is wise, especially if the weather turns windy or cooler at sea.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are glowing, with a 4.7 out of 5 stars from 200 travelers. Many highlight how informative, friendly, and professional the staff are. For example, one reviewer said, “Raul was brilliant,” noting the guide’s welcoming attitude and bilingual explanations. Several mention how close and personal the wildlife encounters felt, with whales swimming nearby and dolphins playing around the boat.

Some reviews also touch on the snacks and meals onboard, calling the food “great” and “delicious,” and noting the relaxed but professional vibe. One traveler remarked that the overall experience was “the best tour in Tenerife,” emphasizing the value of seeing marine mammals in their natural environment.

A few reviewers mention shorter sightings or less wildlife activity, which is a reminder that nature can never be guaranteed. However, most are satisfied with what they saw and appreciated the intimate, friendly atmosphere.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a relaxed, wildlife-focused adventure in Tenerife, this sailboat tour hits many of the right notes. The chance to see whales and dolphins up close, coupled with the beautiful coastal scenery and onboard amenities, makes it an appealing choice. It’s especially suited for those who value small groups, knowledgeable guides, and a combination of wildlife and water activities.

While not a full-day adventure, the 3-hour format is manageable and packed with memorable moments. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and a meal adds to the overall value, making it a relaxing way to experience Tenerife’s marine environment. Just be prepared for the possibility of not seeing as much wildlife on every trip—nature’s unpredictability is part of the charm.

This tour offers a genuine, friendly, and often awe-inspiring experience for anyone curious about the ocean’s gentle giants and lively marine life. It’s a solid pick for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic adventure in the Canary Islands.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as being suitable for all ages and is family-friendly, making it a good option for travelers with children.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility needs can enjoy the experience too.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and weather-appropriate clothing. Snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so consider bringing your own if you want to snorkel.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including wildlife viewing and optional swimming.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Puerto Colón, Dock 8. Make sure to arrive a little early to get settled.

What’s included in the price?
You get snacks, drinks, and a meal onboard, along with access to freshwater showers.

Are there any extras I should know about?
Snorkel equipment isn’t included, and hotel pickup isn’t offered, so plan to meet at the dock.

What kind of marine life might I see?
Up to 26 species, including whales, dolphins, pilot whales, and even blue whales, depending on the day and season.

Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?
Yes, a stop at a private beach allows for swimming and snorkeling, weather permitting.

What if I don’t see any whales or dolphins?
Wildlife sightings depend on nature’s schedule—many reviews mention seeing plenty, but there’s no guarantee. The guides are knowledgeable and try their best to find animals for guests.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate way to connect with Tenerife’s marine life, this sailboat tour offers a lot of value and memorable moments. Just keep expectations flexible, bring your sense of adventure, and enjoy the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: