Costa Adeje: Whale and Dolphin Cruise with Food and Pickup

Discover the Marine Wonders of Costa Adeje with a Whale and Dolphin Cruise

Imagine being out on the Canary Islands’ coast, aboard a comfortable catamaran, with the teal waters shimmering beneath you and the imposing Teide Volcano watching from a distance. For around $43 per person, this 3-hour whale and dolphin-watching cruise offers a lively and relaxed way to connect with Tenerife’s marine life, indulge in local flavors, and enjoy fantastic coastal views. The trip departs from Puerto Colon, with the option of hotel pickup in Costa Adeje, making it a practical choice for those staying nearby.

What we especially love about this experience is how it combines wildlife spotting with culinary treats—a hearty paella and unlimited drinks on board make for a satisfying cruise. Plus, the friendly staff and knowledgeable guides help turn a simple boat ride into a genuine adventure. The only caveat? The snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore beneath the waves, you’ll need to bring your own equipment.

This tour is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed day on the water. If you enjoy seeing dolphins and whales in their natural habitat while savoring good food and impressive scenery, this cruise ticks many boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are a major highlight, with frequent encounters with dolphins and whales.
• Comfortable catamaran with space to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy the view.
• All-inclusive food and drinks, especially the delicious paella.
• Optional hotel pickup makes logistics hassle-free.
• The trip lasts around 3 hours, offering a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.
• Requires bringing snorkeling equipment if you want to explore underwater.

The Experience in Detail

The Start: Easy and Convenient Meeting

The tour kicks off at Pantalan 9 in Puerto Colon, where you’ll find the bright red catamaran with “maxicat” emblazoned on its side. The team offers hotel pickup in Costa Adeje if you’ve selected that option, which simplifies logistics—no need to hunt for the boat yourself. If you prefer, you can meet directly at the harbor about 20 minutes before departure, giving yourself time to settle in and get a safety briefing.

Embarking on the Voyage

Once aboard, you’ll quickly notice the spacious layout of the catamaran, with plenty of room for lounging and sightseeing. The crew provides a safety briefing, reassuring everyone that you’re in good hands. As the boat begins to glide along the coast, the real fun begins—spotting marine mammals. Guides are attentive and eager to point out dolphins, pilot whales, and, if you’re lucky, larger whales, during their migration or feeding patterns.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wildlife Watching: A Real Highlight

Many reviews emphasize the quality of wildlife sightings. Dee mentions, “Excellent activity, lots of fun, saw lots of pilot whales,” which highlights how frequently and easily these friendly creatures can be seen. Guides are well-informed, sharing facts about the animals and their habits, making the experience both fun and educational. Because the boat isn’t overcrowded, everyone gets a decent chance to see the animals close up.

The Bay: Relaxation and Refreshments

After wildlife spotting, the boat heads toward Diego Hernandez Bay, a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just enjoying the ocean breeze. The bay’s calm, clear waters encourage a refreshing dip—most reviews mention the lovely swimming/snorkeling spots. Bring your own snorkel gear to get the most out of this part, as it’s not supplied. The guides help identify fish and might even point out a turtle or two if you’re lucky.

Food and Drinks: A Local Flavor

No cruise on Tenerife is complete without tasting some authentic Canarian cuisine. The included paella is a highlight—large, flavorful, and served with unlimited drinks, including refreshing sangria. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the meal, calling it “lovely” and “brilliant”. The crew keeps the drinks flowing, making the trip relaxed and sociable.

Returning with Stunning Views

As the boat heads back to Puerto Colon, you’ll enjoy spectacular vistas of the coast, with the Teide Volcano prominent on the skyline. It’s a memorable way to end a day out at sea, with plenty of time to relax, chat, or just soak in the scenery.

Authentic Reviews and What They Tell Us

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Julia who says, “Very nice trip and staff. It was lovely weather and tasty food.” The importance of good crew can’t be overstated—they’re the key to making the experience special. Anthony notes, “Amazing value for money and got to see whales. Would definitely recommend,” highlighting how accessible and rewarding this trip can be.

A couple of minor drawbacks emerge from reviews. Some mention delays in pickup times—one reviewer notes their transfer was quite late, though it was free. Another factor to consider is the lack of snorkeling gear included, so if underwater exploration excites you, plan to bring your own.

Who is this trip best suited for?

This cruise appeals most to families, wildlife lovers, and travelers seeking a relaxed, sociable experience. It’s perfect if your goal is to see whales and dolphins in their natural setting while enjoying good food and scenic views. It’s also an excellent choice if you want an easy, all-in-one activity—no fuss, just fun.

Practical Details and Tips

How to Get There

Meeting at Pantalan 9 in Puerto Colon is straightforward, and the boat is easy to spot. If you opt for the pickup, make sure to indicate your hotel or location in Costa Adeje. Remember, pickup is available in Playa Paraiso only on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.

What to Bring

Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected. High-heeled shoes are not allowed, and bringing snorkel gear is recommended for the underwater stop.

Duration and Schedule

The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, with check availability for specific departure times. It’s a compact window—long enough to enjoy wildlife and scenery without fatigue.

Cost and Value

At $43, the trip offers a solid value, especially considering the included lunch and unlimited drinks. The reviews highlight the generous portions and quality of the meal, meaning you’re getting more than just a boat ride—you’re getting a full experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

If the idea of seeing whales and dolphins in their natural habitat excites you, and you appreciate friendly guides and good food, this cruise is a strong pick. The small boat atmosphere means fewer crowds, and the scenic route along Costa Adeje makes it more than just animal watching—it’s a scenic adventure.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly activity that combines wildlife, scenery, and local cuisine in a manageable 3-hour window. And if you’re someone who values authentic experiences over tourist traps, you’ll appreciate the genuine care and knowledge of the crew, as reflected in many reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included?
Yes, the trip includes a delicious paella lunch served on board, along with unlimited drinks, making it a great value.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
Absolutely. Reviews consistently mention sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and sometimes other species, with guides helping identify and share facts about them.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup in Costa Adeje is offered if you select that option. Pickup from Playa Paraiso is only available on specific days.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Remember, snorkel gear isn’t included, so bring your own if you plan to snorkel.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts around 3 hours, including wildlife spotting, swimming, and lunch.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly experience, and many reviews mention enjoyable outings with children. Vegetarian, vegan, and children’s menus are available upon request.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price includes transportation (if selected), food, drinks, and the cruise. However, snorkeling gear needs to be brought along if desired.

Final Thoughts

This whale and dolphin cruise in Costa Adeje offers a combination of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and tasty local cuisine at an accessible price. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew elevate the experience, making it suitable for families, wildlife fans, and anyone wanting a relaxed day at sea. The small boat setting ensures a more intimate and personal experience, far from the crowded tour boats.

While the snorkeling gear isn’t included, many find the bay swim and potential animal sightings more than enough to justify the trip. The included paella lunch and drinks add significant value, especially for those wanting to unwind and indulge. If you’re looking for a memorable, wildlife-focused outing with easy logistics, this cruise is a solid choice.

Whether you’re eager to spot whales, enjoy scenic coastal views, or simply relax with good food in hand, this cruise delivers a well-rounded, authentic experience. Just remember to bring your snorkel gear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you never know what marine marvels you’ll encounter.

You can check availability for your dates here: