La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights - Practical Tips for Choosing the Tour

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights

If you’re visiting La Palma, a trip that combines marine wildlife with scenic coastlines is a must. For about $68 per person, you get a 3-hour cruise around the island’s rugged coast, where dolphins and whales often swim alongside the boat. The tour is led by marine biologists and expert guides, who share their passion and knowledge, making this not just a boat ride but an educational adventure.

Two things we really like about this tour: First, the opportunity to see marine mammals in their natural environment—dolphins jumping, whales surfacing—something truly unforgettable. Second, the visit to the volcanic delta formed by the 2021 eruption offers a rare glimpse into La Palma’s geological activity.

One thing to keep in mind is that, while the tour boasts a 96% success rate of spotting cetaceans, nature is unpredictable. Sometimes whales prefer to stay hidden. This doesn’t take away from the overall experience but is worth considering if your trip depends on wildlife sightings.

This experience suits nature lovers, families, and anyone curious about marine life or scenic coastlines. Whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first-timer, the blend of wildlife, geology, and breathtaking views makes it a compelling choice.


Key Points

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights - Key Points

  • Marine Wildlife: Likely sightings of dolphins and whales, with detailed descriptions from marine biologists.
  • Scenic Coastal Stops: Includes visits to Porís de Candelaria, Cueva Bonita, and the new volcanic delta.
  • Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable marine biologists enhance understanding and enjoyment.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Well-equipped boat with upper and lower decks, photos included, and soft drinks.
  • Flexible Booking: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Cost & Value: At $68, the tour offers excellent value, combining wildlife, scenery, and education.
You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the La Palma Whale Watching Tour

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights - In-Depth Review of the La Palma Whale Watching Tour

Setting Out from the Coastline of La Palma

Starting at the Muelle deportivo SN in Tazacorte, the meeting point is straightforward, though note that transport to and from the port is not included. Once aboard the boat, the Flipper — a comfortable vessel with both upper and lower decks — immediately sets a relaxed, inviting tone. The forward area provides prime viewing spots, perfect for wildlife watching, while the stern’s smoking area and refreshments make the trip comfortable, especially on breezy or sunny days.

The Voyage and Coastal Highlights

As the boat departs, the crew—comprising supportive guides and marine biologists—share their enthusiasm and knowledge. The first part of the trip features beautiful views of La Palma’s western coast, with its cliffs and caves visible from the water. Several reviews highlighted the spectacular scenery: “Superb morning cruise through cliffs and caves” and “Lovely views of La Palma’s western coast.” The caves and rocky formations, like Cueva Bonita, add a sense of mystery and natural charm to the landscape.

Marine Life Encounters: Dolphins and Whales

The core of this tour is wildlife spotting. While not guaranteed, there’s a high chance—96% success rate—of seeing dolphins, pilot whales, and possibly other cetaceans. Reviewers consistently mention dolphins jumping around the boat and whales surfacing. One traveler described it as “an incredible experience” to see a pod of dolphins up close. Another noted, “we were very lucky to see a large group of striped dolphins that were jumping around the boat,” which is a highlight many hope for.

The guides excel at educating guests about the animals’ behaviors, which adds depth. Expect to hear about the dolphins’ energetic leaps and whale movements, making the experience more engaging than just watching animals.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Porís de Candelaria, Cueva Bonita, and the Volcanic Delta

Apart from wildlife, the tour includes stops at impressive coastal sites. The Porís de Candelaria is a striking natural bay with caves and clear waters—an ideal spot for photos and exploration. The Cueva Bonita, a volcanic cave, is described as “magical,” and many reviews mention the dramatic scenery of the coast.

A particularly unique feature is the volcanic delta formed after the 2021 eruption. This new landscape offers a rare glimpse into La Palma’s ongoing geological activity, giving visitors an understanding of how the island’s landscape continues to evolve.

Comfort, Photos, and Refreshments

During the trip, guests enjoy photos taken by the crew, giving a chance to capture those special moments. The inclusion of soft drinks keeps everyone refreshed, and the well-maintained boat provides ample space for lounging or standing in the upper deck for panoramic views.

Authenticity and Overall Value

What makes this tour stand out is the blend of education, scenery, and wildlife. The guides’ deep knowledge and passion shine through, making it more than just a boat ride. It’s a chance to learn about marine ecosystems, see incredible coastal formations, and share the thrill of wildlife sightings.

The price point of $68 is quite reasonable when you consider the length, the quality of guides, the included photos, and the chance to see wildlife in their natural setting. For many travelers, this offers excellent value for money—a memorable experience at a fair price.

A Few Considerations

While the high success rate of cetacean sightings is promising, nature can be unpredictable. Some reviewers mention days when no whales or dolphins were seen, but they still enjoyed the scenery and the boat trip. Weather can also affect the experience: a cloudy or windy day might lessen visibility or comfort. It’s advisable to bring a sun hat and sunscreen and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour recommends.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals to nature lovers, families, and anyone with an interest in marine ecosystems. It’s particularly suited for those who want a balanced mix of wildlife, geology, and scenic coastlines. People who enjoy educational tours but also want a bit of adventure will find this a perfect fit.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Tour

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights - Practical Tips for Choosing the Tour

  • Book in advance since the tour is popular and has a flexible pay later option.
  • Arrive at the meeting point early to avoid rushing, as the tour begins promptly.
  • Dress for the weather—bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket if it’s windy.
  • Bring your camera or smartphone for photos, especially if you want pictures of dolphins or caves.
  • No lunch included, so plan accordingly if you plan to be out for longer or want a meal afterward.
  • Remember: the tour does not include transportation to the port, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights - Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews suggest this is a family-friendly experience. Kids generally enjoy the boat ride and the chance to see dolphins and whales.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket. Since no lunch is provided, consider bringing snacks if you want.

Will I definitely see dolphins or whales?
While the tour has a 96% success rate in spotting cetaceans, sightings are not guaranteed due to animal behavior and weather conditions.

Are there restroom facilities onboard?
Yes, the boat has a toilet available for guests.

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time for wildlife viewing and coastal exploration.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is there a guide speaking in my language?
Guides speak English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What if I don’t see any wildlife?
Even if no animals are spotted, many guests enjoy the coastal scenery and caves, so the experience remains worthwhile.

Are refreshments included?
Yes, soft drinks are provided on board to keep you hydrated.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, especially during peak travel seasons, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Final Thoughts

La Palma: Whale Watching Experience and Coastal Highlights - Final Thoughts

The La Palma whale watching tour offers a compelling combination of marine wildlife viewing, spectacular coastal scenery, and educational insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s a well-priced, enjoyable outing that suits travelers who want more than just a scenic boat ride—those eager to learn about the animals and geology that shape La Palma.

The chance to see dolphins leap and whales breach in their natural environment is genuinely memorable. Plus, the visit to volcanic landscapes and caves adds a layer of adventure and discovery that makes it more enriching. The professional guides and comfortable boat ensure a smooth experience, even for those who may be prone to seasickness or are new to boat trips.

While wildlife sightings depend on nature, most guests leave with beautiful photos, new knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for La Palma’s diverse environment. If you love the ocean, wildlife, or scenic coastlines, this tour is certainly worth considering. It’s a great way to connect with the island’s natural beauty in a fun, informative setting—making your visit to La Palma even more special.

You can check availability for your dates here: