Discover Tenerife’s Marine Wildlife on a 3-Hour Whale Watching Catamaran Tour
Imagine gliding across Costa Adeje’s sparkling waters aboard a spacious catamaran with up to 160 fellow travelers, scanning the horizon for dolphins, pilot whales, and even sea turtles. For around $54, this three-hour adventure offers a chance to see marine creatures in their natural environment while enjoying included drinks and a sandwich.
What we particularly love about this tour is how knowledgeable the crew is—many reviews highlight how their insights make the experience feel authentic and special. Plus, the open bar is a real bonus, saving you from the sting of pricey bar prices on board. However, the large capacity means it’s busier and less intimate than smaller boats, which might matter if you’re after a quieter, more personalized experience.
This trip suits travelers who enjoy wildlife spotting, coastal scenery, and relaxed boat trips. It’s especially good for families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a fun, value-packed day at sea. Just be aware that not all hotels are covered for pickup, and the boat’s size can mean a lively, bustling atmosphere.
Key Points
- Wildlife Watching: Expect to see bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, pilot whales, and possibly sea turtles.
- Inclusive Experience: Sandwiches, snacks, and an open bar are included, making for a stress-free trip.
- Comfort & Capacity: The large catamaran holds up to 160 people, offering wide views but less intimacy.
- Practical Details: Hotel pickup (from designated locations), 3-hour duration, and departure at 10:00 am.
- Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent; bad weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds.
- Authentic Insight: Crew members are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Tenerife
A Deep Dive Into the Tenerife Whale Watching Experience
What to Expect on This Marine Adventure
Starting at Av. de Colón in Playa de la Américas, the tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am. Your day begins with transportation arranged from select hotels—though not all, so be sure to check if yours is included. Once on board, you’ll notice the vast catamaran’s spacious deck, designed to give everyone unobstructed views of the ocean and wildlife.
The journey lasts roughly three hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, snack on included sandwiches, and sip drinks from the open bar. This setup makes the trip feel relaxed and sociable, with plenty of space to stretch out or find a cozy spot. Many reviewers have raved about the stunning coastal views, which include Tenerife’s rugged cliffs and distant mountain silhouettes.
Spotting Marine Life: What You’ll See
This tour’s main highlight is spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. According to reviews, pilot whales are common visitors, with groups sometimes coming quite close to the boat—close enough for great photo opportunities. One reviewer joyfully recounted seeing a family of ten pilot whales, while others noted the Atlantic spotted dolphins swimming beneath the boat.
The crew is typically praised for their expertise in guiding wildlife sightings, often pointing out bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and even turtles. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the experienced crew’s familiarity with whale and dolphin hotspots does increase your chances.
Food & Drinks: Simple Yet Satisfying
Included in your ticket are sandwiches, snacks, and a variety of beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Reviewers frequently mention how this added value enhances the trip, especially since it avoids expensive bar tabs. One reviewer appreciated the plenty of drinks and sandwiches, calling it great value.
However, amenities like sun beds at the front of the boat are available but on a first come, first served basis and come with an extra fee. Ice-cream is also available for purchase, but not included. You might find that the included food and drinks are enough for a comfortable day, but if you’re seeking a more luxurious experience, upgrades are possible.
Hoping to spot marine life? We've covered these other whale watching options in Tenerife
- Whale Watching Eco-Adventure from Costa Adeje
- No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first – we care
- Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise with Transfer, Buffet by MC
- Whale Watching and Listening Eco Catamaran Tour with Food Tasting
- 3h Viking Cruise with Drinks, Whales watching & Swimming Time
- Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South
The Atmosphere and Crew
The large capacity of this vessel means it can sometimes feel bustling, especially during peak times. Several reviews describe the crew as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer praised Oliver and the multilingual crew, noting how they made everyone feel comfortable, especially when someone felt seasick.
Some reviews mention rushing to take photos immediately upon boarding, which is common on busy excursions but can feel a bit hurried. A few travelers also pointed out the livelier atmosphere, making this trip best suited for those who enjoy a social, energetic environment rather than complete tranquility.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
One key consideration is weather dependency. Several reviews recount cancellations due to poor weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of checking the forecast before booking. The tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled, but if weather turns sour on the day, you might be disappointed.
Another point is the size of the vessel. While offering spectacular views and the possibility to see wildlife up close, it also means the boat is more crowded than smaller, more intimate options. If you prefer a quieter, more personalized experience, you might want to explore other options.
Plus, not all hotels are included in the pickup service, so you’ll need to coordinate with the designated meeting points if your accommodation isn’t listed.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This whale-watching adventure is well-suited for families, first-time visitors, and groups seeking good value. If you’re excited to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment and enjoy relaxed social atmospheres, this trip hits the mark. The inclusion of food and drinks makes it a hassle-free option, perfect for those who want to maximize fun without extra costs.
If you prefer a quieter, more intimate boat ride or have concerns about large crowds, you might consider smaller or more exclusive tours. But overall, this experience offers an authentic and entertaining way to explore Tenerife’s marine life.
The Sum Up
This whale-watching catamaran tour in Costa Adeje packs a solid punch for travelers seeking a fun, educational, and scenic day out on the water. The knowledgeable crew and stunning wildlife sightings are the biggest draws, making it a worthwhile experience for those who love nature and adventure. The included snacks and drinks add great value, especially for families or groups wanting a carefree outing.
While the large vessel can feel lively and somewhat crowded, it also ensures you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy the ride and maximize your chances of wildlife encounters. The experience’s flexibility with rescheduling due to weather adds peace of mind, and many reviews highlight how friendly and professional the crew is.
This tour suits people who enjoy social atmospheres, wildlife, and coastal scenery—making it a memorable highlight of any Tenerife trip. Just remember to pack a jacket for the open air, and check the weather forecast to avoid disappointment. If you’re after a lively, value-packed marine adventure with plenty of opportunities to see playful dolphins and majestic whales, this tour could be your perfect match.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
You’ll get sandwiches, snacks, and a variety of drinks including alcohol, soda, and bottled water, all included in the ticket price.
How long is the whale watching trip?
The trip lasts approximately three hours, giving enough time to enjoy wildlife sightings and relax on deck.
Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, pickup is offered from designated locations, but not all hotels are included. Confirm if your hotel is on the list or use the nearest pickup point.
What should I bring?
Bring a jacket for wind and open air, sunscreen, and your camera. Sun beds are available for an extra fee, so consider upgrading if you want a more comfortable spot.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule.
Can I see whales and dolphins?
Many reviews mention successful sightings of pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and Atlantic spotted dolphins. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the crew’s experience improves your chances.
Is the boat crowded?
Yes, since it holds up to 160 people, it can feel lively and bustling, which some travelers enjoy and others might find less ideal.
Are there any extra charges onboard?
Sun beds at the front are extra and first come, first served. Ice-creams are also available for purchase.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly trip, though the lively atmosphere and crowd size might be more suited for older children or those comfortable in busy environments.
Enjoy your voyage into Tenerife’s waters—where the dolphins play and whales sing, and every trip offers a new chance for a memorable encounter.
More Sailing Experiences in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
- Tenerife: Private Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise
- Tenerife: Shared Yacht Cruise with Champagne and Tapas
- Tenerife: Private or Group 3 Hour Sailing Cruise with Drinks
- Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour by Sailboat
- Tenerife: Fun Yacht Trip with Water Activities and Toys
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Tenerife
- Exclusive Tenerife Highlights Shore Tour for Cruise Passengers
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
- Tenerife: Private Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise
- Tenerife: Shared Yacht Cruise with Champagne and Tapas
- Tenerife: Private or Group 3 Hour Sailing Cruise with Drinks
- Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour by Sailboat
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Tour of an Organic Vineyard with Tasting & Snacks
- Private 8 hours Tour to El Teide from Tenerife Hotel with driver/guide
- Puerto Colón: Tenerife Coast Jet Ski Tour with Photos
- 4-Day Private Kitesurfing Lessons for Beginners in Tenerife
- Exclusive Tenerife Highlights Shore Tour for Cruise Passengers
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
More Tenerife experiences we've covered
- Tenerife: Tour of an Organic Vineyard with Tasting & Snacks
- Private 8 hours Tour to El Teide from Tenerife Hotel with driver/guide
- Puerto Colón: Tenerife Coast Jet Ski Tour with Photos
- 4-Day Private Kitesurfing Lessons for Beginners in Tenerife
- Exclusive Tenerife Highlights Shore Tour for Cruise Passengers
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
- Tenerife Airport Transfer from South Airport (Reina Sofia) to North Area Hotels
- Tenerife: Private Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise
- Tenerife: Surf Lesson at Playa de Las Americas
- SSI Wreck Diving Specialty in Tenerife
- Giant TCR Advanced Pro 1
- Forest Quad Trip in South Tenerife