Tenerife: 3 &-6 Hour Private Whale & Dolphin Watching

Imagine sailing along Tenerife’s southern coast, with the warm sun on your face, the gentle hum of a yacht under your feet, and the chance to see whales, dolphins, and turtles in their natural environment. For those craving an intimate and flexible marine adventure, this private tour offers just that—up to 9 people on a luxury sailing yacht with the option to choose between a 3-hour or 6-hour excursion.

The price is $1,059 for your entire group—meaning you get a personalized experience without fighting crowds. The tour is led by a friendly, multilingual captain (Pedro, as noted in reviews), who makes the trip fun and informative. We loved the small-group vibe, which feels much more like a day out with friends than a typical tour bus. Two standout features are the sonar system that lets you hear whales and dolphins as they swim nearby, and the delicious snacks and drinks served on board.

One thing to consider is that, while the waters around Tenerife are generally calm, seasickness can be an issue for some. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable on the water. This tour is especially great for nature lovers, families, or groups of friends wanting an authentic, relaxed experience in the company of marine creatures. If you’re after a personalized, intimate boat trip with plenty of chances to swim and snorkel, this is a strong pick.

Key Points

Private Group: Up to 9 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Luxury Yacht: Comfortable, well-equipped vessel with professional captain.
Interactive Tech: Sonar system to listen directly to marine life.
All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, and snorkel equipment included.
Flexible Duration: Choose between 3 or 6 hours to suit your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Setting Sail from Puerto Colon

Your adventure begins at Puerto Colon, a popular marina on Tenerife’s sunny south coast. Once onboard the Gran Azor, a sleek, well-maintained sailing yacht, you’ll immediately feel like a privileged guest. The boat’s luxurious setup, according to reviews, enhances the experience—no cramped spaces here, just ample deck space for sunbathing or relaxing with a drink.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

For the 3-hour tour, you’ll mainly cruise along the coast, keeping a sharp eye out for marine life, with the possibility of swimming or snorkeling. The 6-hour option adds more time for exploring, swimming, and perhaps a more leisurely approach to wildlife spotting, making it ideal if you want extra chances to see whales or dolphins up close.

Wildlife Viewing: Whales, Dolphins, and Turtles

The highlight for most is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. As one reviewer put it, they watched two pilot whales just a meter away, a truly magical moment. The sonar system amplifies this magic by allowing you to hear the whales and dolphins as they communicate underwater—a rare, intimate connection with nature.

You might also catch glimpses of sea turtles, adding to the diversity of your marine wildlife sightings. Since the waters are calm and clear, spotting these creatures is often easier than you might expect.

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Snorkeling and Swimming

Once you find a good spot, the boat drops anchor to allow swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear water makes for excellent visibility, giving you a good chance to see fish, corals, and maybe even a curious turtle or two. The snorkel gear is included, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer.

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Food and Drinks: A Laid-Back Feast

Throughout the trip, complimentary snacks and drinks are served. Reviewers raved about the abundance and quality of the food—think fresh tapas, fruits, and beverages to keep you refreshed. Some guests even enjoyed a little champagne or celebratory drinks during special occasions like birthdays, which the captain happily accommodated.

Captain and Crew: Knowledgable and Friendly

The reviews speak highly of Captain Pedro, describing him as affable, informative, and multilingual. He keeps the atmosphere lively, sharing interesting facts about the marine life and making sure everyone feels comfortable. His relaxed approach, combined with his expertise, makes the trip both fun and educational.

The Practicalities

Price and Value

While $1,059 might seem steep at first glance, remember this covers the whole private group—you’re not paying per person. With all food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the benefit of exclusivity, the value increases if you’re looking for a comfortable, personalized experience. Compared to larger boat tours, the intimacy and flexibility are unique benefits.

Duration and Flexibility

The 6-hour option gives you more time to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. The 3-hour tour is suitable if you’re short on time but still want a taste of marine life and a scenic cruise.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 9 guests, the trip avoids the crowded feel of larger tours, creating a more relaxed environment. This makes it particularly appealing for families, small groups of friends, or couples seeking a more personal connection with nature.

What to Bring

To make the most of your trip, pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and sunscreen. The sea conditions can vary, so comfortable clothing and sun protection are essential. Note that fishing and feeding animals are not allowed—respect for the marine environment is part of the experience.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour isn’t ideal for people prone to seasickness, as boat motion might be uncomfortable for some. It’s worth considering if you’re sensitive to motion or have health issues that could be affected by being on the water.

Authentic Feedback from Previous Travelers

One guest shared that they booked the trip for a birthday celebration and described it as “unforgettable”. They appreciated the spectacular service, the chance to see pilot whales just a meter away, and the lunch and champagne provided. Another praised the friendly and fun captain, noting they saw close-up whales and dolphins, making the trip feel like a luxury experience.

A different reviewer highlighted the large amount and high quality of the included food and drinks, calling it “feeling like royalty for a day.” These authentic impressions underscore that this tour isn’t just about wildlife; it’s about enjoying a luxurious, personalized day on the water.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you love wildlife and want a more intimate view of marine creatures, this is ideal. It’s perfect for families, small groups of friends, or couples seeking a relaxed, private experience. The inclusion of snorkeling, delicious food, and a friendly captain makes it suitable for travelers who value comfort and authenticity.

However, if you’re light on time or prone to seasickness, consider the shorter option or consult your doctor before booking. This tour is less about high-energy adventure and more about relaxing, observing, and enjoying Tenerife’s marine wonders.

This private whale and dolphin watching tour in Tenerife offers a personalized, relaxed, and high-quality experience—where you get close to nature, enjoy excellent amenities, and avoid the crowds. With a knowledgeable captain, the chance to hear and see marine life, and included snacks and drinks, it provides great value for those looking to make the most of their time on the water.

It’s well-suited for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a more intimate encounter with the ocean. The flexibility in duration and the luxury of a private yacht make it a standout choice for those seeking both adventure and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
You can choose between a 3-hour or a 6-hour trip, depending on how much time you want to spend at sea.

What is included in the price?
All food and drinks, snorkel equipment, and the use of the yacht are included in the price. There are no hidden fees.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for a private group of up to 9 people, making it a more personal experience.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
Most likely, yes. Many reviews mention close encounters with pilot whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, camera, and sunscreen. Be prepared for sun and water activities.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkel equipment is provided, and you’ll have opportunities to swim and snorkel in the clear waters.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people prone to seasickness or with health conditions sensitive to boat motion. Fishing and feeding animals are not allowed to protect marine life.

What language is the tour guided in?
The captain speaks English, Spanish, Russian, and Polish, providing an engaging and accessible experience for international travelers.

This Tenerife tour offers a memorable blend of wildlife, scenery, and comfort. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an authentic marine adventure, it promises a day of discovery and relaxation amid some of the Canary Islands’ most captivating waters.