Why Tenerife stands out as one of the top destinations for dolphin watching tours is no secret. Its clear, warm waters and abundant marine life create an ideal environment for spotting playful dolphins and majestic whales. From budget-friendly speedboat rides to luxurious yacht excursions, Tenerife offers something for every kind of wildlife enthusiast. Take a look at the Costa Adeje eco-cruise, which combines sustainability with a guaranteed wildlife sighting, or the Los Gigantes speedboat tour, perfect for those craving a quick adrenaline rush and close encounters with marine creatures. Whether you’re after a peaceful sail or an energetic speedboat adventure, Tenerife’s waters are teeming with life.
In this guide, we highlight 15 of the best dolphin watching tours in Tenerife. You’ll find options that cater to different budgets, durations, and preferences — from small-group experiences with expert guides to family-friendly trips with swimming stops. Each offers its own unique way to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, often with added features like snorkeling, underwater sound systems, or gourmet dining. Now, let’s dive into the details of each one.
1. Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Eco-Cruise with Snacks & Drinks
At number one, this eco-friendly catamaran cruise in Costa Adeje offers a sustainable approach to dolphin and whale watching. With ratings of 4.6/5 from over 4,400 reviews, it’s a popular choice. The tour comes in 3-hour and 5-hour options, both including snacks, drinks, and swimming. What sets this trip apart is the guaranteed sighting policy—if you don’t see whales or dolphins, you can reschedule for free. The crew enhances the experience with underwater sound equipment, allowing you to hear the mysterious calls of the ocean. Passengers rave about the friendly staff and engaging commentary, often mentioning how respectful the tour is of marine life and how relaxing the trip feels. It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a comfortable, eco-conscious day at sea.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for nature lovers seeking a responsible, well-reviewed trip that guarantees wildlife sightings and includes snorkeling and food.
2. Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise with Swim Stop
Sailing from Los Gigantes, this 2-hour dolphin and whale-watching cruise scores an impressive 4.7/5 from nearly 2,800 reviews. For around $32, you get to sail close to the spectacular cliffs while observing playful dolphins and majestic whales in their natural environment. The highlight is the opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters at Juan López or Masca, with a complimentary drink in hand. The boat glides through the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, one of Europe’s top whale-watching spots. Guests mention the friendly crew and beautiful scenery, making this a quick but memorable adventure suitable for families and those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing.
Bottom Line: An affordable, scenic trip with the bonus of swimming — ideal for travelers wanting a quick, active marine experience.
3. 3-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching and Listening Tour
For around $48, this 3-hour whale and dolphin watching tour combines marine life viewing with the chance to hear their sounds in real-time. Led by an experienced crew, the boat is equipped with an underwater sound system that enriches the experience. Guests love the educational aspect and the opportunity to snorkel with rental gear. The tour offers stunning photo ops of Tenerife’s south coast, making it a favorite among photographers and wildlife lovers alike. Reviewers praise the informative guidance, with many noting they saw pilot whales, turtles, and dolphins during the trip.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour blending wildlife sightings with sound, snorkeling, and photography, perfect for curious travelers.
4. Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks and Snacks
At number four, this luxury yacht cruise offers a more refined experience for $74 per person. Over 3 hours, you’ll sail through the waters near the south coast searching for whales and dolphins. The tour is limited to max 11 passengers, providing a personal atmosphere. It includes snorkeling with turtles and a complimentary selection of snacks and drinks, making it perfect for those who appreciate a more upscale outing. Customers mention the professional crew and how well the trip balances relaxation and wildlife viewing. The only downside is the higher price point, but many find the intimacy and quality of service worth it.
Bottom Line: A premium experience suited for travelers who prefer a smaller, more luxurious boat with gourmet snacks.
5. Los Gigantes: Whale or dolphin watching and swimming tour in Masca
Ranking fifth, this 2-hour whale/dolphin watching and swimming tour takes you to one of Europe’s best locations. After spotting whales or dolphins, you’ll stop for a swim in Masca Bay, under the towering cliffs. The tour is praised for its close encounters with marine life and the scenic cliffs of Los Gigantes. Reviewers love the friendly guides and the chance to swim in clear, protected waters. It’s a short trip, making it suitable for those on a tight schedule but still eager for a wildlife and swimming experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, scenic trip with wildlife observation and the chance to swim in stunning surroundings.
6. Tenerife Whales and Dolphins Watching Experience in Catamaran
This 3-hour catamaran tour is perfect for those seeking comfort and a focused wildlife experience. Rated 5/5 from 474 reviews, it offers small groups with a dedicated crew. The tour guarantees sightings of whales and dolphins, with snacks and drinks provided. It also includes a stop at a beautiful cove for swimming or snorkeling. Guests highlight the professional crew and the relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite for families and couples. The inclusivity of food and drinks onboard adds to its appeal.
Bottom Line: A high-quality, intimate experience with plenty of options to relax, take photos, and enjoy marine wildlife.
7. Whales & Dolphins watching in exclusive sailboat
Number seven features a luxurious 3-hour sailboat trip, rated 5/5. It’s tailored for those wanting a private, peaceful outing. The tour includes snorkeling gear, on-board catering, and round-trip transport. Many reviews mention how company owner and crew make the experience special, with some noting the beautiful scenery and the chance to relax while watching whales and dolphins. You can choose to simply relax on deck or dive in for a swim in the calm waters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a more exclusive, quiet experience with marine wildlife.
8. Tenerife 3-Hour Discover Whales and Dolphins
This 3-hour luxury sailing trip offers a small, intimate group experience and is rated 5/5. The Roulette sailboat departs from Puerto Colon, with hotel transfers included within a 20 km radius. Highlights include snorkeling, snacks, and drinks, along with up to 29 species of cetaceans observed in the waters near La Caleta de Adeje. Many reviewers point out the professional crew and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want a mix of wildlife viewing, swimming, and luxury.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a luxury, all-inclusive experience with knowledgeable guides.
9. Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South
Number nine offers a small-group, 3-hour sailing trip rated 5/5, ideal for travelers desiring personalized service. The crew has over 20 years of experience, and the tour includes snacks and snorkeling gear. The emphasis on eliminating guesswork—they take you to prime whale and dolphin spots—makes this a great option for wildlife enthusiasts. Reviewers mention seeing pilot whales and dolphins up close, along with the friendly, attentive crew.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, guided experience with plenty of wildlife sightings.
10. Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Submarine Vision Mini Cruise
This 2-hour submarine-style cruise offers a unique peek into marine life via 16 underwater windows. Rated 4.4/5, it’s a sustainable choice that allows you to see whales and dolphins without getting wet. The boat features a multilingual guide and explores the coast of Tenerife. Reviewers love the panoramic underwater views and the fact it’s less physical and more relaxed. It’s especially suitable for families with young children or travelers with mobility concerns.
Bottom Line: A distinctive way to view marine animals in a comfortable, dry setting.
11. Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat
For adrenaline junkies, this speedboat tour from Los Gigantes delivers fast-paced fun. With a 4.7/5 rating and just 2 hours, it takes you right into the action. The rigid inflatable boat gets you close to whales and dolphins, with the spectacular Los Gigantes cliffs as a backdrop. Many reviews highlight seeing whales within five meters and the thrill of the ride. It includes a swimming stop and is perfect for those who want a more energetic experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a thrilling, close-up wildlife experience.
12. Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour on a Pirate Boat
This 2-3 hour pirate-themed boat tour scores 4.5/5. It’s a lively, family-friendly adventure with paella lunch, snorkeling, and wildlife sightings. The pirate theme adds a fun twist, especially for children. Reviewers mention seeing many whales and dolphins and enjoying the informative guide. The lunch and drinks make this a more relaxed, social outing, with a focus on fun.
Bottom Line: Fun for families and kids who enjoy a lively, themed adventure with wildlife and good food.
13. Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching Los Gigantes
This exclusive small-group sailing offers a personalized experience with expert captain Antonio. With 5/5 reviews, it emphasizes quiet, respectful wildlife watching in the Teno Nature Reserve. Guests love the knowledgeable commentary and snorkeling in pristine waters. It’s suitable for travelers who want a more relaxed, intimate environment, and the trip’s quiet pace allows for better wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those valuing personal attention and tranquil scenery.
14. Adeje: Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise with Lunch and Swim
This 3-4.5 hour cruise offers multiple options for sightseeing, swimming, and eating. Rated 4.4/5, it explores Tenerife’s west coast with submarine windows and scenic stops. Guests appreciate the flexible itinerary, good food, and the chance to see whales and dolphins up close. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a combination of marine life, scenery, and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Great for those looking for a fuller experience with options to swim, eat, and explore.
15. Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour – Los Gigantes (3H)
Finally, this 3-hour sailing tour offers spectacular views of the Los Gigantes cliffs, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in clear waters. Rated 4.6/5, it combines wildlife sightings with relaxing onboard dining. The tour often includes appetizers, fruit, and drinks as you watch whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. This trip suits travelers wanting a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and comfort.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-around choice for a relaxed yet wildlife-rich day at sea.
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Tenerife
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend at sea, and your preferences for activities like swimming or snorkeling. For example, if you value small-group intimacy, options like the Tenerife Whales and Dolphins Watching Experience in Catamaran or the Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching Los Gigantes might suit you best. Interested in a luxury experience? The Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks and Snacks in a yacht provides a more upscale outing with fewer people. If adventure and speed are your priorities, the Los Gigantes Speedboat Tour delivers a rush of adrenaline and close wildlife encounters.
Think about how much time you have — some tours are just 2 hours, perfect for a quick trip, while others span half a day. Also, check reviews for insights on crew professionalism, wildlife sighting success, and overall experience.
Final Thoughts
Tenerife offers a wide range of dolphin watching tours, from eco-conscious cruises to luxurious yacht trips, to small-group sailing adventures. For families, the submarine cruise or the pirate-themed boat offers fun and safety. For wildlife enthusiasts seeking the best chances to see dolphins and whales, guided small-group tours or trips in protected sanctuaries stand out. Adventure lovers will appreciate the speedboat excursions that bring you close to the action.
No matter your choice, booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on these popular trips. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. With so many options, you’re sure to find a dolphin watching tour that makes your Tenerife visit memorable — a true highlight of your island adventure.
