Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Catamaran Tour with Drinks

Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Catamaran Tour with Drinks
Location: Canary Islands, Spain
Price: $39 per person
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (based on over 3,000 reviews)
Supplier: Eden Catamaran

A quick glance at what this tour offers: For just under $40, you get a 2-3 hour cruise from Puerto Colon, with almost guaranteed sightings of pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment. Along the way, you’ll pass fish farms where clever dolphins are often spotted searching for an easy meal, and you might even catch a glimpse of the massive squids that dwell deep beneath the surface. If you opt for the 3-hour version, you’ll enjoy a swim and snorkel stop in the beautiful bay of Playa Espagueti, adding a refreshing twist to the experience.

What we love most about this tour: First, the knowledgeable crew, especially Lucy and Mario, who share fascinating facts about the marine wildlife. It’s clear they genuinely care about the environment and the animals they’re watching. Second, the inclusive drinks—water, soft drinks, and beer—make the trip feel relaxed and social. And, of course, the guaranteed sightings—if you don’t see whales or dolphins, you get a free ticket for your next trip, which is reassuring for wildlife watchers.

One possible consideration is the timing and weather dependence—since marine animal sightings are subject to ocean conditions and animal movement, some trips may be more fruitful than others. Also, the boat size is limited to 50 people, which keeps things cozy but might feel crowded if you prefer small groups.

This tour suits travelers who value informative guides, effortless fun, and the chance to see marine creatures in the wild. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a memorable outdoor activity that balances adventure with comfort.

Key Points

• Wildlife Guarantee: You will see whales and dolphins or get a free return ticket.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Drinks, commentary, and, if chosen, snorkeling gear are included.
• Flexible Duration: Options for 2 hours or 3 hours with swimming and snorkeling.
• Knowledgeable Crew: Guides like Lucy and Mario are praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• Respectful Wildlife Watching: Boat crew adhere to regulations, limiting whale encounters to 15 minutes each to protect the animals.
• Value for Money: At $39, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience Tenerife’s marine biodiversity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Accessibility

The adventure begins at Puerto Colon, a convenient departure point in southwest Tenerife. Since the tour price covers only the boat ride and onboard drinks, travelers need to arrange their own transportation to the pier. The boat itself is modern, with a maximum capacity of 50 guests—an ideal size for getting personal with the crew and comfortably viewing the marine wildlife.

Itinerary Breakdown

Departure and Sailing: The journey starts with a leisurely sail just a few miles from the coast, where pilot whales are known to live year-round. We loved how the crew kept us entertained with engaging commentary about Tenerife’s marine life, explaining the significance of the fish farms we passed and the deep-sea squids that can grow up to 40 feet long.

Wildlife Encounters: The highlight is, of course, spotting whales and dolphins. Reviews consistently mention how quickly dolphins appear—some travelers noted seeing dolphins “very quickly into the trip,” which certainly enhances the experience. Pilot whales are the main attraction, with some tours reporting sightings of entire pods and even calves, offering incredible close-up views.

Respectful Observation: The crew adheres strictly to regulations that limit encounters to 15 minutes per group, ensuring the animals aren’t disturbed. This respectful approach makes the experience more authentic and sustainable, and many reviews commend the crew for their care.

Snorkeling Stop (3-hour option): If you opt for the longer trip, after some whale-watching, the boat anchors in the bay of Playa Espagueti for about 30 minutes. Here, you can put on snorkel gear and enjoy observing the underwater world, which many travelers found to be a delightful addition to the trip. Remember to bring your goggles—the underwater views are said to be plentiful.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Whale and dolphin watching cruise
– Free onboard drinks (water, soft drinks, beer)
– Snorkeling equipment (for the 3-hour tour)
– Knowledgeable crew members who are both friendly and informative
– Swimming and snorkeling stops (if selected)

Not Included:
– Transportation to the pier—so plan accordingly.

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The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviews paint a vivid picture of the trip’s quality. One reviewer, Helen, remarked, “Our tour guide, Lucy, was very friendly and informative,” highlighting the personal touch guides provide. Others appreciated how the crew “respected the wildlife and turned the boats off so as not to upset them,” making it obvious that eco-consciousness is a priority.

The atmosphere onboard is described as relaxed, with good music, friendly staff, and a balance between fun and education. Many travelers mention how their expectations were exceeded—seeing dolphins, turtles, and multiple whale species, all within a couple of hours.

The Weather and Sea Conditions

While the tour is weather-dependent, most reviews note that the conditions are generally good, especially in the summer months. The boat’s design allows for good visibility, and the crew is attentive to safety and comfort, providing fleece jackets if it gets chilly on the water.

Value for Money

Given the price—$39—you’re getting a lot: an approximately 2-hour trip with a guarantee of sightings, free drinks, and an educational experience. The snorkel gear and swimming stops add extra value if you choose the 3-hour option. The positive reviews consistently emphasize how this is a worthwhile expense for a memorable, wildlife-focused outing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy learning about marine life, seeing wild whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, or just relaxing on a boat with good company and drinks, this trip is ideal. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate respectful wildlife encounters and want a chance of guaranteed sightings—a key selling point.

Families with children, couples, or solo travelers will find it accessible and engaging. If snorkeling is your thing, the 3-hour option provides a nice mix of wildlife watching and underwater exploration. And for eco-conscious travelers, the crew’s commitment to not disturbing the animals will resonate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the option you book.

What is included in the price?
The trip includes a whale and dolphin watching cruise, free drinks onboard (water, soft drinks, beer), and snorkeling equipment if you choose the 3-hour option.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Puerto Colon in southwest Tenerife. Meeting point varies slightly based on the booked option, so check your booking details.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, if you select the 3-hour trip, snorkeling gear is provided and you’ll have time to swim and observe underwater life.

What animals might I see?
You’ll likely see pilot whales, dolphins, and possibly sea turtles and even large squids.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since the crew is attentive and the trip is relatively gentle.

How many people are on the boat?
Up to 50, but smaller groups are common, making for a comfortable viewing experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your swimwear, goggles, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. The crew provides fleece jackets if needed.

In sum, this whale watching trip from Costa Adeje offers a well-rounded, respectful, and value-packed experience. With knowledgeable guides, guaranteed wildlife sightings, and the chance to add snorkeling, it’s perfect for anyone wanting to connect with Tenerife’s ocean life in an eco-friendly way. Whether you’re after family memories, wildlife photography, or simply a relaxing day at sea, this tour delivers authentic moments in a beautiful setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: