Sealife Dolphin & Whale Watching aboard Portuguese schooner

Imagine swapping the usual sightseeing roads of Tenerife for a two-hour maritime adventure aboard a beautifully restored Portuguese wooden schooner. For $56.67 per person, you’ll set sail from Los Cristianos, heading out into the Atlantic to seek out whales and dolphins, with the bonus of included lunch and drinks. This tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 from six reviews, offers a relaxed yet exciting way to see the island from a different perspective—on the water, with the wind in your hair, and the promise of wildlife sightings.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the authentic vessel transports you back in time, giving you a taste of what sailing life might have been like centuries ago—pirate stories included. Second, the combination of whale and dolphin watching with a delicious onboard lunch means you get a full, rewarding day without fussing over extra costs or logistics. A slight drawback is that some travelers felt the trip could feel slow or a little uneventful if no cetaceans are spotted; but with most trips booked 9 days in advance, this is clearly a popular choice for those keen on marine wildlife.

This tour suits travelers who love a relaxed pace, appreciate authentic boats, and are eager to combine wildlife viewing with good food. Families, couples, or groups seeking a memorable day on the water will find plenty to enjoy here, especially with the up-close photo opportunities from the boat’s open deck. If you’re hoping for a lively party vibe, this might be more subdued, but if you want a genuine, scenic, and wildlife-focused experience, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Portuguese schooner adds historic charm and character.
• Whale and dolphin sightings are the main focus, with multiple reviews confirming sightings.
• All food and drinks included makes this a hassle-free experience.
• The upper deck provides perfect sunbathing and photo opportunities.
• The tour starts at 10:00am from Los Cristianos and lasts approximately 2 hours.
• Booking well in advance helps secure a spot, as it’s popular.
• The small group size (max 60 travelers) fosters an intimate experience.
• The cancellation policy is flexible—free up to 24 hours beforehand.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting Sail from Los Cristianos
The adventure begins at the Puerto Colón Marina, a lively hub of boats and travelers alike. From here, you board a classic Portuguese schooner—a vessel that looks like it belongs on a pirate movie set, with its polished wood, sails, and nostalgic charm. The boat’s design isn’t just for show: it offers an upper deck for sunbathers and a large central table for snacks, drinks, and socializing.

The Voyage Itself
As the boat glides into the Atlantic, you’ll quickly realize how different this experience is from mainland Tenerife sightseeing. We loved the way the crew’s stories about pirates and old sailing days transported us back in time, adding a layer of storytelling that enhances the journey. Plus, the open bar means you can sip a cold drink as you scan the horizon for signs of marine life.

Whale and Dolphin Watching
Most travelers come for the chance to see dolphins and whales, and this trip generally delivers. For instance, one reviewer, Odelia, shared, “We were able to see the dolphins and whales as planned; it was so great!” The trip’s main aim is to spot these creatures, and according to reviews, the crew is attentive and knowledgeable, providing explanations during the excursion. This means you’re not just watching blindly; you’re learning about the animals and the ocean environment.

While sightings depend on the day’s conditions and luck, the areas visited are known for cetaceans, increasing hopes for a good view. Some guests have even swum in the open waters, adding an extra thrill, although this isn’t guaranteed.

Lunch and Swimming
After the whale and dolphin hunt, the boat anchors along the coast—a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch. The included delicious meal features reiss, chicken drumsticks, salad, bread, and a drink, praised by reviewers for being generous and tasty. Many mention the quality of the food as a highlight, turning what could be a simple meal into a memorable part of the day. The anchor point also offers a chance to swim in the Atlantic, though not everyone takes this opportunity.

Return and Reflection
Once lunch and swimming are over, the boat begins its journey back to Puerto Colón, giving everyone time to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The entire experience is informal and family-friendly, with plenty of space for photos and sunbathing.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Itinerary Breakdown

• Departure: 10:00am from Puerto Colón Marina
• Duration: Approx. 2 hours
• Main activities: Whale and dolphin sightings, sightseeing, lunch, optional swimming
• Return: To the same marina, usually within the scheduled time

What’s Included

• Authentic Portuguese schooner voyage
• All food and drinks (including an open bar)
• Wildlife sightings with knowledgeable crew
• Photo opportunities from the upper deck

Group Size & Booking

• Maximum of 60 travelers ensures a cozy, less crowded experience
• Recommended booking 9 days in advance due to popularity
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure

Weather & Cancellation Policy

• The trip depends on good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund

Authenticity, Value, and Who Should Consider This Tour

This cruise offers more than just a boat ride; it’s a blend of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. The authentic vessel, with its pirate-like stories and vintage charm, adds a touch of adventure that many modern catamarans lack. The included lunch provides great value, especially since food and drinks are typically extra on similar tours. The small group size makes it ideal for those wanting a more personal experience, and the possibility of seeing whales and dolphins keeps the anticipation high.

For families, the friendly crew and relaxed pace make this a memorable day out. For wildlife enthusiasts, the chance to observe cetaceans in their natural habitat is a key draw. If you’re seeking a more relaxed, scenic, and culturally interesting alternative to busy theme parks or crowded beaches, this tour fits well.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the trip can feel slow or uneventful if no wildlife appears, which is a common risk with wildlife tours. Also, the pace and focus on marine life observation might not appeal to those looking for a more active or party-like experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity without feeling rushed.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins at Puerto Colón Marina in Costa Adeje and returns to the same location.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, lunch and an open bar are included in the ticket price, which adds great value and convenience.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, and one review highlights a “fabulous day out with the little ones,” even mentioning a rescue story.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for photos. Bring swimwear if you want to take advantage of swimming opportunities.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 9 days ahead, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits 60 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this Sealife Dolphin & Whale Watching tour aboard a Portuguese schooner offers a delightful combination of history, wildlife, and scenic calm. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic boats, and the thrill of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The included lunch and photo opportunities make it feel like good value for the money, especially when you consider the memorable stories and the unique vessel you’ll sail on.

While the risk of weather-dependent wildlife sightings exists, the overall experience is gentle and authentic—ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a scenic day with a dash of adventure. It’s a classic Tenerife activity that balances nature, history, and leisure—a great way to appreciate the island from the open sea.