Puerto Colon: Whale-Watching Sailing Tour with Meal & a Swim

Puerto Colon: Whale-Watching Sailing Tour with Meal & a Swim

Imagine gliding across the Atlantic, the wind in your hair, searching for the playful spouts of whales or dolphins. This 3-hour sailing experience in Puerto Colón offers a lively mix of wildlife spotting, delicious local food, and a refreshing swim, all with a friendly local captain at the helm for just $68 per person. It’s a casual, small-group outing that balances adventure with relaxation, perfect for those eager to enjoy Tenerife’s marine magic without the fuss.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, the personal touch of a small group capped at 11 participants, ensuring everyone gets personal attention and a chance to ask questions. Second, the local captain’s knowledge, which means you’re more likely to find those elusive whales and dolphins — the real star of the show. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that this trip is weather-dependent — calm seas make for the best wildlife sightings and swimming conditions, so be prepared for potential rescheduling if the Atlantic is rough.

If you’re someone who enjoys a balanced mix of wildlife, good food, and time on the water, this trip could be just your style. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want an authentic experience with a local guide and don’t mind a small group setting. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and natural beauty will find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: The main draw is the chance to see whales and dolphins, thanks to a knowledgeable captain who knows where the best sightings happen.
• Culinary Touch: Savor Tenerife flavors with a tasty paella and a glass of bubbly cava, making the trip feel like a true local feast.
• Beach & Swim: The stop at a sandy bay for a swim offers a perfect break and a chance to cool off in the Atlantic.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Small groups ensure a more personal, less crowded experience.
• Weather Sensitivity: Calm seas are essential for smooth sailing, wildlife viewing, and swimming.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Off from Puerto Colón

Your adventure begins at Pantalan 1, where you’ll find the boat “Mola Mola 2” waiting. From there, the boat is ready to glide into the Atlantic, a journey that’s as much about the scenery as it is about the wildlife. We loved the way the captain’s friendly attitude set a welcoming tone, as he navigated through the bay, sharing insights about the local marine life and the area’s history.

Wildlife Spotting: Whales and Dolphins

The primary goal of this tour is to spot whales and dolphins. Thanks to the captain’s expertise, you’re more likely to see them swimming close to the boat — a true highlight. One reviewer recounted, “We got to see a family of pilot whales very close, and it was truly amazing.” Seeing these gentle giants breach or spout is a bucket-list moment, especially when shared with a small, engaged group.

While sightings are never guaranteed, the captain’s local knowledge increases your chances. Dolphins are usually spotted earlier in the trip, and if you’re lucky, a whale might surface. The experience is about patience and appreciating the ocean’s unpredictability, rather than a guaranteed sighting.

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Lunch and Refreshments

Midway, the boat anchors in a scenic bay for a delicious lunch — typically a hearty paella that captures Tenerife’s culinary spirit. It’s paired with a glass of bubbly cava, making for a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Several reviews praised the snacks and the friendly service, describing the meal as “lovely” and the captain as “very friendly.” It’s a great way to refuel, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the sea views.

Drinks are included, which adds to the carefree vibe, letting you unwind and enjoy the sun-drenched surroundings. Bring your own towels and swimwear if you plan to take a dip.

Swimming & Beach Time

The highlight for many is the stop at a sandy beach where you can jump into the cool Atlantic waters. The bay offers a safe and inviting spot to cool off, and many guests appreciated this break from sailing. One reviewer called it “a nice swimming spot” — a simple but vital feature for those wanting a quick escape from the boat.

Sailing Back and Relaxation

As you head back to Puerto Colón, you’ll enjoy the gentle motion of the boat and the warmth of the sun. The small group setting keeps things intimate, and you can expect to relax, chat, or simply enjoy the views as the captain shares local anecdotes and insights.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

• Pricing & Duration: At $68 per person for 3 hours, this tour offers a good value considering the wildlife, food, and swimming included.
• What’s Included: Your ticket covers the boat trip, a meal (paella with drinks), and a swimming stop, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and beachwear are essentials. Since it sails into the open ocean, dressing comfortably for sun and water is wise.
• Availability & Cancellation: Check the schedule for specific start times. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility to your plans.
• Group Size & Guide: Limited to 11 participants with a live Spanish-speaking guide, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

Accessibility & Considerations

This trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as boat access and movement might be challenging. Also, the experience depends on weather conditions — rough seas could impact both wildlife sightings and swimming.

Authenticity and Value

This tour feels genuine, mainly because of the small-group size and the local captain’s familiarity with the area. The reviews reflect this; travelers appreciated the friendly explanations and close-up whale sightings, describing the experience as “truly amazing.” The combination of wildlife, local cuisine, and beach time offers a well-rounded half-day escape, especially if you’re seeking a memorable, authentic Tenerife experience.

While it’s not a luxury cruise, the focus on nature and local flavors provides excellent value. The price includes a hearty meal and drinks, which are often add-ons in similar tours. The chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, combined with a swim and good food, makes this a compelling choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager for a relaxed, small-group marine adventure with opportunities for wildlife viewing, this tour suits you well. It’s ideal for those who want to experience Tenerife’s rich marine life without a long or overly fancy cruise. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a friendly, casual atmosphere will find plenty to enjoy. Just remember, the tour is weather-dependent and not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming should find this experience enjoyable. However, very young children might find the boat ride a bit long.

Do I need to bring a towel?
Yes, bringing a towel is recommended for comfort after swimming and for sitting on the boat deck.

What should I wear?
Wear swimwear and beachwear, and bring sunscreen and sunglasses to stay protected in the sun.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, beach-appropriate attire is best. No formal clothing is needed.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks including a glass of cava are included in the price.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the trip could be rescheduled or canceled, with full refunds available if you cancel in time.

How many people are on the boat?
The small group size limits participation to 11 people, providing a more intimate experience.

Is the tour conducted in English?
The tour is led by a Spanish-speaking guide, but the reviews suggest the captain is friendly and provides explanations that can be appreciated by all.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The chance to see whales and dolphins in the wild, combined with a delicious local meal and a refreshing swim.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Colón whale-watching sailing tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment. Its intimate setting and knowledgeable captain help turn a simple boat trip into a memorable encounter with nature. The inclusion of a tasty meal and a swim makes it appealing for travelers who value variety and comfort in a half-day outing.

For those willing to embrace the ocean’s unpredictability, this experience provides genuine wildlife sightings, scenic views, and a chance to unwind in a beautiful setting. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, relaxed atmospheres, and small-group adventures.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone looking to enjoy a different side of Tenerife, this tour offers a balanced and enjoyable way to spend a few hours on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: