2 hour trip to see whales dolphins puerto colon adeje

Whale and Dolphin Watching in Puerto Colón: A 2-Hour Marine Adventure

If you’re visiting Tenerife and looking for a short but rewarding ocean experience, this 2-hour tour from Puerto Colón is an excellent choice. For around $42 per person, you’ll set out into the crystal-clear waters of Costa Adeje, where whales, dolphins, and turtles swim year-round. The trip is designed for small groups—usually up to 20 travelers—which means you’ll enjoy a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for spotting marine life and soaking in the scenery.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this trip are the knowledgeable guides who share insights about the marine creatures and the balanced mix of excitement and tranquility. You’re likely to see whales and perhaps dolphins, with enthusiastic guides explaining their behaviors and habitats along the way. What’s more, the tour offers fantastic views of Costa Adeje’s beaches and volcanic landscape, adding an extra layer of visual delight.

A potential consideration is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed—as one reviewer noted, “it’s luck of the draw,” but even then, many still find the experience enjoyable and informative. If you’re someone who loves nature, small groups, and learning about marine life firsthand, you’ll probably find this tour well worth the price.

This experience suits families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of the ocean without a full-day commitment. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Key Points

• Short & Sweet: A 2-hour trip that offers a quick but immersive marine experience.
• Small Groups: Max 20 travelers, making it more personal and less crowded.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share insights about whales, dolphins, and the local marine ecosystem.
• Flexible & Reassuring: Free cancellation if weather cancels the trip or if you change plans more than 24 hours in advance.
• Affordable Value: At about $42, it offers a good balance of price and memorable wildlife sightings.
• Best for: Families, singles, or couples looking for a manageable, engaging ocean adventure.

A Detailed Look at the 2-Hour Whale and Dolphin Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in Puerto Colón, a lively port area in Playa de las Américas. The meeting point is close to public transportation, making it easy to find. Most travelers find the booking straightforward—it’s popular enough to be booked on average 10 days in advance—and the mobile ticket system adds convenience. The tour is designed to be approximately two hours, a duration that feels just right—long enough to see marine life and enjoy the scenery but short enough to suit those with tight schedules.

What the Itinerary Offers

The trip kicks off at Playa de Puerto Colón, where you’ll board a comfortable vessel. The boat then cruises out into the cetacean ecological zone of Costa Adeje. This area is well-known for hosting whales year-round, especially the tropical calderones (pilot whales), and dolphins, with the possibility of spotting turtles as well.

One of the highlights of the trip is the chance to observe whale behavior up close. Several reviews mention seeing families of whales, with one traveler noting, “We saw a whole family with a baby calling to its mother,” which paints a vivid picture of the gentle giants in their natural environment. The guides are praised for their friendly and knowledgeable approach, offering explanations about the creatures’ habits, size, and the importance of respecting their space.

What to Expect During the Excursion

The boat itself is equipped for comfort and safety, with some reviewers mentioning small sandwiches and drinks served during the trip, adding a touch of hospitality to the adventure. While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, and the reviews reflect this “luck of the draw,” many travelers find the experience fulfilling even without dolphins—seeing whales alone makes it worthwhile.

The views of Costa Adeje’s beaches, volcanoes, and coastline from the water are spectacular, providing a scenic backdrop that complements the marine wildlife. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the boat’s covered areas ensure you stay comfortable while waiting for a sighting.

What the Reviews Say

Authentic feedback paints a picture of consistent satisfaction. One traveler shared, “Very friendly and knowledgeable people running the trip explained it’s luck of the draw with what you may see but ended up seeing a fair few whales.” Others appreciated the personalized attention and good value—a common theme being that the experience exceeded expectations for the price.

A French-speaking reviewer appreciated the explanations and the friendly crew, describing their experience as “magical” when spotting dolphins and whales. Similarly, a family was delighted with the small group atmosphere and the opportunity to relax and enjoy the oceanic scenery.

The Intangible Benefits

Beyond the wildlife, many reviews highlight the quality of the guides’ explanations. They are enthusiastic yet informative, making the experience educational without feeling like a lecture. The small group size meant everyone could get a good view and ask questions, creating a more engaging experience than larger, crowded tours.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour operates with flexibility—free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, which is comforting given the unpredictability of weather at sea. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the trip can be rescheduled or refunded, ensuring you don’t walk away disappointed.

The price point at $41.80 per person is reasonable for a marine wildlife cruise, especially considering the small-group setting and the chance to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for travelers who value authenticity and intimacy over large-scale commercial excursions. Families with children, couples celebrating a special occasion, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful yet exciting encounter will find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about marine life and appreciate a relaxed pace.

If you’re the type of traveler who is happy with a possible “luck of the draw” for sightings but loves the idea of small groups and friendly guides, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s also ideal if you prefer a shorter excursion that still provides a meaningful connection to the ocean and its inhabitants.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price, this 2-hour whale and dolphin tour offers more than just wildlife viewing—it provides a chance to connect with nature in a relaxed setting. The small group size, friendly guides, and scenic backdrop make it a memorable experience. You’ll leave with great stories and photos, and perhaps even a new appreciation for the gentle giants of the sea.

While sightings depend on luck, many travelers walk away with fantastic encounters and a better understanding of cetaceans. It’s a solid choice for those who want a manageable, authentic marine adventure without the hassle of longer trips or crowded boats.

This tour really shines for families, small groups, or solo travelers eager to enjoy the ocean’s wonders in a friendly, respectful environment. If you love nature, are curious about marine life, or simply want a peaceful escape on the water, this is a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable outing that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Puerto Colón, near Playa de las Américas, which is accessible via public transportation and close to other tourist spots.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with less crowding.

What wildlife might I see?
The main goal is to see whales (calderones) and dolphins, with the chance of spotting turtles. Sightings depend on luck and weather.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some layers (for wind and sun protection), and a small amount of snacks or drinks if you like. Food and drinks are sometimes provided.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled more than 24 hours in advance or if weather conditions prevent safe sailing.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group setting can be ideal for families. However, always check with the provider regarding age restrictions or special needs.

In all, this 2-hour marine adventure provides a fantastic way to experience Tenerife’s wildlife and scenery without overwhelming your schedule. It’s a genuine chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, learn from friendly guides, and enjoy the beautiful ocean vistas. For those seeking a personal, affordable, and memorable excursion, this trip hits the mark—just remember, nature’s sightings are never guaranteed, but the journey is always worth it.