Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour by Sailboat

Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour by Sailboat — An Authentic Marine Adventure

Imagine gliding silently along Tenerife’s southern coast on a sleek sailboat, with the Atlantic breeze in your hair and the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment. For just $67 per person, you’ll spend around 3 hours exploring the waters off Puerto Colón and Costa Adeje, with expert guides and a small, personal group. This tour, offered by White Tenerife, is designed to be both fun and educational — a true escape into nature that appeals to families, animal lovers, and anyone craving a taste of the ocean.

What I love about this experience is how close you can get to the marine mammals, often getting within arm’s reach of playful dolphins or even spotting majestic whales. The onboard snacks, drinks, and a meal make it a relaxing outing, and the opportunity to snorkel in the clear Atlantic waters adds an adventurous touch. On the flip side, if you’re not keen on boats or prone to seasickness, be aware that being out at sea for three hours might be a bit challenging. Still, it’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group excursions and authentic wildlife encounters — especially if you’re traveling with kids, nature buffs, or anyone who appreciates a more personal, eco-friendly boat experience.

Key Points:
– Up-close marine life: Spot dolphins, pilot whales, and even blue whales in their natural habitat
– Relaxed on deck: Enjoy snacks, drinks, and a meal while soaking up the sun
– Snorkeling opportunity: Swim in the Atlantic’s clear waters and see local flora and fauna
– Experienced guides: Guides are knowledgeable, bilingual, and eager to share insights about marine mammals
– Small-group intimacy: Just 7 people per boat, fostering a personalized experience
– Family friendly: Suitable for all ages, and wheelchair accessible

An in-depth look at the Tenerife Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailboat Tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at Puerto Colón, Dock 8, a convenient location in the southern part of Tenerife. From here, you’ll board a fully-equipped sailboat or yacht, ready for a three-hour journey. The tour duration is flexible depending on availability, so checking the schedule in advance is wise. The meeting point is straightforward — just arrive a few minutes early to avoid missing the boat.

What makes this departure convenient is that it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, but the central location makes it easy to reach by local transport or taxi. The tour ends back at the same dock, making logistics simple.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour primarily focuses on whale and dolphin watching, with an emphasis on natural encounters rather than large, crowded boats. The first stop is at Puerto Colón, where you’ll meet your guides and settle into the boat. Once underway, the crew navigates along the Costa Adeje coastline, searching for signs of marine mammals.

The real highlight comes when dolphins and whales are spotted. The reviews are glowing — many travelers are surprised at how close and active the animals are during the tour. Several reviewers have described seeing Pilot Whales swimming around the boat for an hour, with one delighted traveler noting, “My wife was quite emotional having a family swimming around us for about an hour.” It’s this natural, unhurried feel that makes the trip special.

If you prefer, you’ll have the chance to visit a private beach for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are described as crystal clear, with an abundance of marine life, including turtles and tuna according to some reviews. Although snorkel equipment isn’t included, many guests find the swim in the Atlantic waters to be a memorable part of the experience.

Food, Drinks, and Comfort

Onboard, the meals and snacks are a significant perk. You’ll enjoy free drinks, including soft drinks and water, plus a meal that keeps you energized during the trip. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the onboard refreshments and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere created by the crew.

The sailboats come with shower facilities, and the small group size (about 7 people) makes it easy to relax and chat with the guides. Some travelers appreciated that the customer service was accommodating — especially when accommodating different languages, with guides providing explanations in both Spanish and English.

Marine Life Encounters and Why They Matter

Seeing marine mammals in their natural habitat is truly a highlight of this tour. Up to 26 species are known to inhabit these waters, including baleen whales, killer whales, pilot whales, and blue whales. Many reviews mention seeing multiple species in one trip, with some travelers witnessing families of dolphins swimming alongside the boat for extended periods.

One traveler shared, “Cynical me didn’t have high hopes of seeing anything, but we were delighted to see Pilot Whales, very similar to Dolphins.” The guides are well-trained and eager to share insights about animal behavior, which enhances the experience for those interested in marine biology or simply wanting to learn more about the creatures they’re watching.

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The Snorkeling and Other Activities

The tour offers the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the Atlantic, although snorkel equipment isn’t included. Guests who enjoy being in the water often describe their swims as refreshing and full of marine life. The waters are described as crystal clear, making for excellent visibility — perfect for observing local flora and fauna.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience informative and fun. For example, a traveler named Sandra calls it “one of the best attractions I’ve ever seen,” emphasizing the great atmosphere, experienced captain, and safe cruise. Others appreciated the personalized service — with guides translating information into multiple languages — and the authentic interactions with marine mammals.

Some reviewers mention shorter sightings of dolphins and limited whale views, but overall, the consensus is that the experience exceeds expectations. The boat is described as quiet and eco-friendly, so marine animals aren’t startled by noisy engines — a big plus for nature lovers.

Practical Considerations

While most find the 3-hour duration ideal for a relaxed yet exciting outing, some mention the weather can be variable. It’s wise to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suited for families, making it a versatile choice.

Seasickness might be a concern for some, but the boats are generally stable, and guides are attentive to guests’ needs. Since alcohol isn’t listed as part of the onboard offerings, you won’t have to worry about that affecting your sea legs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking up-close wildlife encounters in a small-group setting. If you love animals, enjoy being on the water, or want a more intimate alternative to larger boat excursions, you’ll appreciate the personalized attention and genuine connections with marine life. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who value knowledgeable guides and relaxed atmospheres.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At $67, this tour offers excellent value considering the chance to see dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures in the wild, plus the added bonus of snacks and the option to snorkel. The small group size and friendly crew make it a memorable, personalized experience that’s worth prioritizing in your Tenerife itinerary.

While no wildlife tour can guarantee sightings, the reviews suggest that most visitors leave with stories of spectacular animal encounters and new appreciation for the ocean’s beauty. If you’re after an authentic, eco-conscious adventure that combines education, relaxation, and fun, this trip delivers.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day. Be sure to check availability in advance.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the meeting point is Puerto Colón, Dock 8. Transportation to the dock is not included, so plan accordingly.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, free snacks, drinks, and a meal are included onboard, making it a comfortable outing without extra costs.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, you have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the Atlantic waters. However, snorkel equipment isn’t included, so bring your own if you have it.

Is the tour suitable for children and wheelchair users?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive experience for all.

What are the chances of seeing whales or dolphins?
While wildlife sightings are natural and unpredictable, many reviews mention seeing Pilot Whales, dolphins, and even blue whales. The guides are experienced and do their best to find marine life.

This sailboat tour in Tenerife offers an authentic and intimate way to connect with marine wildlife and enjoy the beautiful coastline of the Canary Islands. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family, or just someone looking for a relaxing day at sea, this experience promises memorable moments and new stories to share.

You can check availability for your dates here: