Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks and Snacks

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales and dolphins while relaxing on a luxury yacht, this Tenerife tour might just be what you’re after. Set in the beautiful Canary Islands, this three-hour cruise offers a chance to see marine wildlife in their natural environment, enjoy some quality time at sea, and indulge in drinks and snacks while soaking up the scenery. We’ve looked into the reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what you can expect – the good, the not-so-good, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What really makes this experience stand out is the intimate group size and knowledgeable guides, making it feel more like a private adventure rather than a crowded tour. Plus, the chance to snorkel with turtles in a secluded bay adds an extra touch of magic. On the flip side, if seasickness is a concern, it’s worth noting that this trip involves open water sailing, which can be choppy for some. This tour appeals most to travelers who want a relaxed, wildlife-focused outing with a touch of luxury and comfort.

Who would this tour suit? If you’re a sea lover, keen to see whales and dolphins up close, or simply after a scenic trip with good food and drinks onboard, this could be a great choice. It’s also ideal if you prefer smaller groups for a more personal experience. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or looking for a more action-packed or longer wildlife tour, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Wildlife sightings are frequent, with many reviewers lucky enough to see whales, dolphins, and turtles.
• Snorkelling in a secluded bay offers a memorable underwater encounter.
• Knowledgeable guides provide informative commentary, enriching the trip.
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks add to the comfort and enjoyment.
• Duration of 3 hours makes it a manageable outing without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tenerife Whale & Dolphin Cruise

This cruise is designed to give you a quality, immersive experience on the water with an emphasis on wildlife viewing and comfort. It begins with a pickup, if you’ve selected that option, and a short transfer to the yacht. Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the smaller group size—maximum 11 passengers—which creates an intimate, less crowded atmosphere. Guests often comment on how this feels more like a private boat trip, a huge plus if you prefer a relaxed, personal vibe.

Wildlife Watching – The Main Event

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. As one review states, “Guy was a very nice and polite guide. He made sure we enjoyed the experience fully. We saw many animals including whales.” The Canary waters are known for their populated dolphin and whale spots, so sightings are common, but as with all wildlife excursions, nature is unpredictable.

Guides are well-informed, offering interesting commentary about the animals and the local environment. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Dani and Guy, who go above and beyond to make the experience memorable. Watching playful dolphins leap around the boat or whales surfacing nearby is an experience that sticks with people long after the trip ends.

Snorkelling and Swimming with Turtles

After sailing for some time, the boat anchors in a secluded bay where snorkelling is on offer. This is a real treat for those who enjoy underwater sights, and the calm, clear waters make it perfect for swimming and exploring. The included snorkelling gear helps you get close to marine life, like turtles, which many travelers find to be a standout part of the trip.

One reviewer shares, “Was lovely for my family to see a turtle and some whales in their natural environment and to be provided with lunch, grapes, and refreshments.” This suggests that the experience is not just about observing from afar but actively engaging with the ocean in a respectful, eco-conscious way.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

Along With wildlife, the onboard experience is comfortable and enjoyable. Unlimited drinks—including champagne, beer, soft drinks, and water—are served throughout, encouraging a laid-back mood. Food options include ham, cheese, and salad baguettes, complemented by snacks like fruits, chips, and nuts.

Guests mention how much they appreciated the refreshing drinks and tasty snacks—one reviewer notes, “drinks very much appreciated!” The food and drink offerings are simple but well-received, making it easy to relax and enjoy the view without needing to fuss over meals.

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Itinerary Breakdown

• Start Point: The tour begins at Puerto Colon or other designated pickup points, with clear instructions to arrive 15 minutes early.
• Transfer: A brief 20-minute van ride takes you to the marina, setting the stage for your sea adventure.
• Main Cruise: The boat departs into the Atlantic waters for approximately three hours. During this time, you’ll sail through prime whale and dolphin spotting zones, with guides actively searching for wildlife.
• Secluded Bay Stop: The boat anchors here for swimming, snorkelling, and turtle encounters.
• Return: After the water activities, the boat heads back to the starting point, with a smooth 20-minute ride back.

Who is this Tour Perfect For?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy and are genuinely interested in marine wildlife. If you want a trip that balances wildlife viewing, relaxation, and light adventure, you’ll likely find this trip satisfying. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy a luxurious feel, with drinks and snacks included and the option for private or shared tours.

However, if you tend to get seasick easily, note that open water sailing can be choppy, and some reviews mention the cold water in early months. It’s advisable to bring motion sickness prevention and a jacket. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those looking for a long or more energetic marine adventure.

Value for Money

At $74 per person, the trip offers quite a bit—wildlife sightings, snorkelling, food, drinks, and a knowledgeable guide—all packaged into three hours. Many reviews highlight the excellent value, especially when compared to larger, overcrowded boat tours. The small group size and personalized attention also make it feel like a more premium experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable outing that fits easily into a day’s plans.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is optional. If you require pickup within a 10km radius, you must contact the tour provider at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, you can meet directly at Puerto Colón gate number 4, 15 minutes before departure.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, and a jacket. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing medication, as open water can be unpredictable.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, there’s free time to snorkel with gear included. The boat anchors in a secluded bay perfect for swimming and exploring marine life, including turtles.

Will I see whales and dolphins?
While sightings depend on the day’s conditions, reviews show many guests see whales, dolphins, and even turtles. Guides do a great job of locating wildlife and sharing interesting facts.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the relaxed nature and inclusion of swimming and wildlife viewing make it suitable for most ages, provided children are comfortable on a boat.

What about seasickness?
The trip involves open sea sailing, so if you’re sensitive to motion, take precautions. Some reviews mention that the water can be cold early in the year, so dress accordingly.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, unlimited drinks (champagne, beer, soft drinks, and water) are provided along with ham, cheese, and salad baguettes, plus snacks like fruits and chips.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife whale and dolphin cruise offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife viewing, relaxation, and light adventure. With small groups and friendly guides, you’re likely to feel more like a guest than a passenger, creating a more personal experience. The chance to see whales, dolphins, and turtles in their natural surroundings, combined with the comfort of drinks and snacks onboard, makes this tour stand out for those who love marine life and scenic boat trips.

While it’s not a long expedition, the quality of sightings, attentive guides, and overall comfort make it a worthwhile choice. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, seeking a peaceful escape on the water, or simply want a memorable day out in Tenerife, this tour is definitely worth considering.

To sum it up, this experience is best for travelers who value smaller groups, expert guides, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you want to combine wildlife, scenery, and comfort into a short but memorable adventure. Just remember to come prepared for the open sea and bring your camera along—you’ll want to capture those moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Note: Always check availability and start times when booking, as these can vary. And if you’re looking for a more extensive or specialized whale or dolphin tour, there are other options available that might suit longer or more adventure-heavy preferences.