Puerto Colon: Dolphin and Whale Watching Speedboat Tour

Imagine zipping across the Atlantic on a sleek speedboat, with the wind in your hair and the promise of close encounters with dolphins, whales, and turtles. For just around $43 per person, this 2-3 hour adventure from Puerto Colon offers a lively mix of wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and coastal scenery. Whether you want a private outing or a shared trip, this tour delivers a real taste of the ocean’s vibrant wildlife.

What we particularly love is the small-group size—no overcrowded boat here—allowing for a more personal experience. And, of course, the chance to see marine mammals up close, guided by seasoned crew members who really know their stuff. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the speedboat’s pace isn’t ultra-fast, likely to protect the animals and ensure a respectful encounter. This tour is perfect for travelers eager to combine adventure, education, and a healthy dose of nature.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, whales, and turtles with licensed guides.
• Small Group: Enjoy a more intimate experience with a maximum of 11 people.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Stop at scenic spots to cool off, snorkel, or swim in clear waters.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of marine life.
• Value for Money: For just over $40, you get a genuine marine adventure.
• Flexible Options: Choose between private or shared tours, with cancellation flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Tenerife’s Marine Marvels from Puerto Colon

Starting from the lively harbor of Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje, we set out on a lively speedboat that zips across the Atlantic. The boat is well-equipped and licensed by the government (the “Barco Azul” license), meaning you’re in good hands when it comes to respecting marine life. The quick ride is perfect for those who want a high-energy, interactive experience without a lengthy commitment.

The main draw here is the chance to see dolphins, whales, and sometimes turtles—all in their natural environment. The guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, do their best to make sure everyone has a chance to witness these majestic creatures. From reviews, many guests mention seeing about 20 whales, several turtles, and dolphins, which speaks to the success rate of the tour.

Marine Wildlife Encounters

The boat’s license to operate in a responsible manner means encounters are managed with respect for the animals. The tour guides are described as very knowledgeable and caring, often sharing insightful facts about the marine mammals and their behaviors. The reviews repeatedly mention seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even some loggerhead turtles—moments that leave lasting impressions.

A guest noted, “Nico, the captain, was very friendly and knowledgeable,” and many mention how the guides do their best to find the animals, often adjusting the route based on weather and sightings. Watching dolphins leap out of the water or whales spouting is a highlight that makes this experience stand out.

Snorkeling and Swimming Stops

After wildlife spotting, the boat heads toward scenic spots like Palm-Mar or La Caletta, depending on weather conditions. Here, you’ll get the chance to swim or snorkel in calmer waters. The included snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore the colorful underwater world—an unexpected bonus at this price point.

Guests rave about the opportunity to cool off and observe underwater life up close. One reviewer shared that they had a lovely swim in a cove, which adds a relaxing and adventurous touch to the trip. The stops are typically brief but well-timed for those looking to balance wildlife viewing with a quick dip.

Duration, Group Size, and Comfort

The tour runs for roughly 2 to 3 hours, which is a perfect length for a morning or afternoon activity—long enough to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. You can opt for a private tour if you prefer more exclusivity, or join a shared group with a maximum of 11 persons. This small size is highly praised, as it avoids the overcrowded feeling often associated with larger boat excursions.

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Snacks, Drinks, and Overall Value

Included in your ticket are drinks and snacks, adding a nice touch to refresh yourself after a busy wildlife chase. Guests often mention the friendly crew and how they go above and beyond to create a welcoming atmosphere. For just over $40, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of wildlife sightings and the professional guidance.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Meet at Puerto Colon: The start point is straightforward, though the exact meeting spot may vary depending on your booking. Be sure to check your confirmation.

Set sail across the Atlantic: Once aboard, the thrill begins. The boat swiftly cuts through the water, and you’re immediately immersed in the oceanic environment. The crew keeps an eye out for signs of marine life, and you might find yourself scanning the horizon eagerly—many reviews mention the excitement of spotting dolphins or whales early.

Wildlife spotting: This is the core of the tour. The licensed guides use their experience and local knowledge to locate pods of dolphins, groups of whales, and even rare turtles. Guests universally agree that the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise make the experience memorable. As one guest put it, “We saw about 20 whales and several turtles, which was incredible.”

Stop for swimming/snorkeling: Depending on weather and sightings, the boat will head toward calm waters like Palm-Mar or La Caletta. Here, you can climb into the water with snorkeling gear or simply relax on the boat. Many reviews highlight how the water is clear and inviting, making this a relaxing contrast to the high-energy wildlife spotting.

Return to port: After about 2 to 3 hours, the boat heads back, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Guests often comment on how the crew makes the trip feel personal and respectful of the environment.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

From heartfelt reviews, it’s clear this tour hits the right notes. Travelers mention seeing a variety of marine life, and the knowledgeability of the guides often comes up as a major plus. For example, one guest said, “The guide did his very best to make sure we had the best experience,” and many appreciated the small group size for a more personal connection.

The snacks and drinks are also appreciated, especially since it can get quite warm out on the water. Several reviews mention how the crew was friendly and attentive, making the trip smooth from start to finish.

Some guests note that the speedboat isn’t particularly fast, likely to ensure safety and animal conservation. This makes the tour more about quality sightings and respectful encounters rather than high-octane speed. If you’re expecting a thrilling, adrenaline-fueled ride, this might not be the tour for you, but if you value responsible wildlife watching with a touch of adventure, it’s ideal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters and want to learn about marine mammals from friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers who enjoy a small, intimate environment. Those interested in snorkeling and swimming in scenic spots will find it particularly rewarding.

While it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to boat access limitations, most others will find this tour accessible and enjoyable. It’s a fantastic way to combine adventure, education, and relaxation in just a few hours.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Tenerife and eager to see dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural habitat, this speedboat tour from Puerto Colon offers exceptional value. The combination of small-group intimacy, expert guides, and the chance for up-close sightings makes it stand out. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks adds to the overall experience, making it a well-rounded, fun outing.

If you’re someone who loves adventure with a purpose—respecting and observing marine life—this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize authentic encounters over adrenaline, and who appreciate a personal touch with knowledgeable guides.

This is a balanced, engaging, and value-packed way to enjoy Tenerife’s oceanic treasures. It’s an experience that will likely leave you with unforgettable memories—and maybe even a new appreciation for marine conservation.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy boat trips and snorkeling generally find this experience fun. However, check the specific age restrictions if any.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is included, although you might prefer to bring your own mask or fins for comfort.

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on weather and sightings.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Wear something comfortable for sun and water activities.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks and drinks are part of the package, making the trip more comfortable on a warm day.

Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour private or shared?
You can choose between a private or shared tour, with a maximum of 11 persons in the group.

Is the boat licensed for wildlife encounters?
Yes, the boat has an official “Barco Azul” license, ensuring responsible and respectful wildlife viewing.

Will I see whales and dolphins?
Most guests do, with many reports of multiple whale and dolphin sightings, including turtles on occasion.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to boat access limitations.

This tour represents a solid choice for travelers eager to combine wildlife watching, snorkeling, and a touch of adventure—without overpaying or sacrificing authenticity. Whether you’re a nature lover, a family, or a couple seeking a memorable ocean experience, this trip from Puerto Colon will likely provide both joy and meaningful encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: