Luxury Opera 60 Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience

When you think about Tenerife, images of volcanic landscapes, lively beaches, and vibrant nightlife may come to mind. But for those eager to see Tenerife’s incredible marine life, the Luxury Opera 60 Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience offers a unique and memorable way to connect with the island’s natural beauty. Priced at $92.89 per person and lasting approximately three hours, this trip promises a blend of thrilling encounters with whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, combined with the chance to swim and snorkel in warm, inviting waters.

What sets this tour apart is the impressive Opera 60 speedboat — the largest and most luxurious in Tenerife. Its spacious design, complete with sunbeds, multiple sitting areas, music, and refreshments, means you can enjoy the ride in style and comfort. The tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from over 110 reviews, with 95% of travelers recommending it.

Two particular aspects we love are the personalized boat experience and the focus on authentic marine encounters rather than just sightseeing. The boat’s design, decorated with taste and elegance, makes it a delight to be on, whether relaxing in the sun or spotting whales and dolphins gliding through the water. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the weather dependency — poor weather can lead to cancellations, which is common for sea-based adventures.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want more than just a boat ride. If you’re keen on seeing marine wildlife up close, enjoying good food and drinks, and having a comfortable, spacious environment, this trip is a fantastic choice. Families, couples, and groups of friends who love a combination of adventure and relaxation will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Spacious & Stylish Boat: The Opera 60 is the largest luxury speedboat in Tenerife, offering plenty of room to lounge comfortably.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: The tour includes opportunities to swim and snorkel in warm waters, with supplied equipment.
• Inclusive Comforts: Drinks, snacks, music, toilets, and showers make the trip relaxed and enjoyable.
• Authentic Experience: Knowledgeable guides and close-up encounters make this more than just a sightseeing cruise.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for those looking to combine wildlife viewing, water activities, and luxury.

Setting Sail from Puerto Colón

The adventure begins at Puerto Colón, a popular marina in Playa de las Américas, an area well-connected by public transportation. Meeting your guide directly at the marina, you’ll start with a quick safety briefing before stepping aboard the Opera 60 — a vessel that immediately impresses with its size, elegance, and comfort.

This 60-foot (almost 20 meters) boat is equipped with 740 HP dual Volvo Penta engines, allowing for a smooth, swift ride that gets you quickly to prime wildlife viewing spots. Its rigid hull with inflatable side defenses provides stability and safety, especially for families or those a bit wary of boat motion.

The Marine Safari: What to Expect on the Water

Once underway, you’ll notice the relaxed yet upbeat atmosphere created by music and the ample seating areas. The boat’s design features big tables and sunbeds, ideal for sunbathing or enjoying snacks while scanning the horizon. The onboard toilet and showers add to the convenience, especially after swimming in the sea or just to freshen up during the trip.

The primary goal? To spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. According to reviews, sightings are frequent and often close enough to feel like a personal encounter. One traveler noted, “We saw dolphins, whales, and turtles,” and others are quick to praise the guides’ ability to identify different species — a sign of knowledgeable crew members like Fabrizio, who made their guests feel welcomed and well-informed.

Wildlife Encounters & Marine Life

The tour’s hallmark is wildlife watching. Travelers consistently describe extraordinary sightings, with dolphins playing in the bow waves and the chance to see whales, including large families of these gentle giants. One review enthusiastically states, “We actually saw whales and a school of dolphins — impressive!”

Given Tenerife’s reputation for whale-watching, this tour offers a high likelihood of witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural environment. The presence of sea turtles adds another layer of wonder, with some guests fortunate enough to observe them gliding gracefully nearby.

Swimming and Snorkeling in Calm Waters

A highlight for many is the opportunity to swim and snorkel. The tour’s itinerary includes stops in calm, warm waters where you can jump in with provided gear to explore underwater life. Reviewers say, “Swimming in the bay was a real treat,” and the snorkeling equipment is of decent quality, making it accessible even for beginners.

Most guests appreciate the generous time allocated for water activities, typically enough for multiple dips and underwater exploration. The refreshing showers and comfortable boat amenities mean you can rinse off and relax afterward, making the whole experience quite seamless.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

What elevates this tour is the inclusion of unlimited drinks and snacks, a rarity on many boat trips. You can sip on prosecco, soft drinks, or water while soaking in the scenery or chatting with fellow travelers. The reviews consistently mention the delicious local-inspired snacks and the pleasurable ambiance created by the music and friendly staff.

This relaxed environment is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of luxury without sacrificing authenticity. The knowledgeable guides not only help with wildlife spotting but also share interesting tidbits about Tenerife’s marine ecosystem and coastal geography.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you value comfort and style, and want a high chance of wildlife sightings, this experience is a standout. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends eager to combine adventure with relaxation. The small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures a personalized, intimate feel, which many reviews highlight as a major plus.

Just keep in mind, weather conditions can affect the trip — if seas are rough or weather is poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Booking in advance, ideally around 26 days ahead, is recommended to secure your spot during peak times.

Cost & Value

At around $93 per person, this trip offers excellent value considering the luxury boat, all-inclusive drinks and snacks, snorkeling gear, and the memorable wildlife encounters. The positive reviews speak to the high-quality experience, with many guests noting the thoughtful amenities and knowledgeable crew as worth the price.

The Sum Up

The Luxury Opera 60 Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience delivers on its promise: a stylish, comfortable journey filled with spectacular marine wildlife sightings and fun water activities. It’s tailored for travelers who want more than just a boat ride — they seek an immersive, authentic encounter with Tenerife’s ocean life in a setting that’s both elegant and welcoming.

With high safety standards, friendly guides, and a focus on authentic marine encounters, this tour is a top pick for anyone eager to connect with Tenerife’s underwater world. The added touches — unlimited drinks, quality snorkeling gear, and spacious decks — make it a memorable outing that balances adventure and comfort beautifully.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families. The boat has safety features and facilities like showers and toilets, and children tend to love seeing dolphins and whales.

How long is the trip?
Approximately three hours, which provides enough time for wildlife viewing, swimming, and relaxing onboard without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided on board, making it easy to enjoy the underwater world without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for sun and water, such as swimsuits, shorts, and a hat. Bring sunblock and a light jacket if you’re sensitive to wind.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour details do not specify accessibility features, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special needs.

How many people are on each tour?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy comfortably.

What languages are the guides fluent in?
While not specified, reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides who provide clear explanations, likely in multiple languages.

Is alcohol included?
Unlimited drinks, including prosecco, soft drinks, and water, are provided as part of the experience.

What is the best time of day to take this tour?
You can choose between morning or afternoon sessions, depending on your schedule. Both tend to offer good wildlife viewing opportunities.

In all, the Luxury Opera 60 Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and unforgettable way to explore Tenerife’s waters. It’s perfect for those who want a touch of luxury along with authentic encounters with the island’s marine life, making for a trip you’ll talk about long after you’ve returned home.