Whale & Dolphin Watching Boat Trip in Tenerife On a Sailing Boat (3 Hr)

A 3-Hour Sailing Adventure for Whale & Dolphin Watching in Tenerife

If you’re visiting Tenerife and eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, this half-day sailing trip offers a relaxed, intimate way to do so. Departing from Puerto Colón, this tour is priced at around $52.35 per person, and lasts just about three hours—a perfect quick escape into the waters. What makes this experience shine is the chance to spot local marine creatures with a knowledgeable skipper who knows where the best sightings occur, and to enjoy some downtime with a swim stop in a scenic, safe bay. Plus, the onboard open bar and food create a fun, social atmosphere.

Two things we particularly like about this trip? First, the small group size—capped at 12 people—means you’ll avoid the crowded tourist boats, giving you a more personal and relaxed experience. Second, the expert local skipper increases your chances of seeing dolphins or pilot whales, which are often quite abundant around Tenerife. The background info provided by guides enriches the journey, making it more than just a boat ride; it’s an educational glimpse into the marine life that inhabits these waters.

One possible consideration is the weather dependency. Since the trip relies on good weather, cancellations can happen if the sea is too rough or if conditions aren’t ideal. Also, some travelers might find the price a bit steep for what is essentially a sightseeing cruise, especially if you’re budget-conscious. However, if you’re looking for a personalized, informative, and fun way to see marine life, this tour offers good value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a small group environment, refreshing drinks, and a chance to swim in a beautiful, quiet bay.

This experience appeals most to nature lovers, families, or couples seeking a relaxed, authentic encounter with Tenerife’s marine environment—especially those who appreciate guides with local expertise. From enthusiastic first-timers to seasoned travelers, this tour balances adventure and comfort.

Key Points

• Small group size means more personal attention and fewer crowds.
• Expert guides increase the chance of spotting whales and dolphins and provide interesting background info.
• Swim stop allows for relaxation and cooling off in a scenic bay.
• Open bar and food enhance the social, laid-back vibe of the cruise.
• Flexible departure times help fit this adventure into your Tenerife itinerary.
• Weather dependent—good conditions are essential for a smooth experience.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect from the Whale & Dolphin Boat Trip in Tenerife

When we think about the most enjoyable ways to experience Tenerife’s marine life, this 3-hour sailing cruise stands out for its mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. From the moment you step onto the boat at Puerto Colón, you’re stepping into a relatively intimate environment—the ride is limited to just 12 travelers, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd. This isn’t a giant tourist boat; it’s a cozy, well-managed vessel that emphasizes quality time on the water.

The Departure and Itinerary

Tours leave three times daily—a convenient schedule that allows you to pick a time that works with your day. Once aboard, the skipper—who has years of local experience—guides your search for whales and dolphins, which are frequently seen in this region. Pilot whales, in particular, are common between Tenerife and La Gomera, so if luck is on your side, you’ll get a good chance at spotting them. One reviewer, Ted, happily shared that “seeing the pilot whales was great, and the trip was good value for money,” highlighting how these sightings can make the trip truly memorable.

Searching for Marine Life

The key highlight of this tour is the whale and dolphin watching. The guides provide background info about these creatures, making the experience more engaging. The local knowledge of the skipper is a significant advantage; they know exactly where to go, increasing your odds of a sighting. While sightings aren’t guaranteed—like any wildlife adventure—they are frequently reported, and the small group size helps keep the experience intimate and focused.

The Swim Stop

After a successful wildlife search, the boat will anchor in a secluded bay. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to take a swim in calm, clear waters—a refreshing break from the boat ride. The bay’s scenery is described as scenic and safe, perfect for relaxing and cooling off. Expect to enjoy light snacks and drinks from the open bar while you soak in the views or float in the water.

Food and Drinks

The open bar is a real plus, especially after a morning or afternoon of searching for marine life. You can enjoy refreshing drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—and snacks provided by the tour. Several reviews, like the one from Ted, mention the good value of the included food and drinks, which add to the relaxed, social atmosphere onboard.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers a more personalized experience. This smaller size allows guides to provide more detailed explanations about the wildlife and environment, and for guests to ask questions. The atmosphere tends to be friendly and informal, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a less commercialized vibe.

Practical Considerations

The tour costs about $52.35 per person, which, when you consider the included guide expertise, the swim stop, food and drink, and the chance to see marine life, represents a decent value. That said, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but the personalized attention and small group size justify the price for many.

Remember, weather plays a crucial role. Poor conditions can lead to cancellations or less impressive sightings, which is common for wildlife tours. The provider offers full refunds if weather forces cancellation, providing peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This small-group sailing trip is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic encounter with marine life. It suits nature lovers, families with older children, or couples who want a relaxed, intimate experience with the sea. If you enjoy educational guides and a chance to take a swim in beautiful surroundings, this tour ticks those boxes.

While the price might seem high compared to larger, more commercial excursions, many reviewers find the personal attention and authentic experience worth it. It’s especially recommended if you value expert local knowledge and want a more relaxed and less crowded environment.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

How long does the trip last?
Approximately three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes whale and dolphin watching, an open bar with drinks, snacks, and a swim stop in a scenic bay.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18 years. Most travelers can participate, but check for specific age limits if traveling with children.

What is the group size?
Maximum 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and possibly a light jacket depending on the weather.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the trip is canceled due to poor weather.

Where does the trip depart from?
From Puerto Colón, Playa de la Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

How many times daily do departures happen?
Three departures per day, offering flexible scheduling.

Is food included?
Yes, snacks are included, along with drinks from the open bar.

Does this tour guarantee whale sightings?
While sightings are frequent, wildlife is unpredictable. The guide’s local knowledge significantly boosts your chances.

Final Words

This 3-hour sailing whale and dolphin watching trip in Tenerife offers a relaxed, personalized, and informative way to connect with the island’s marine environment. Small group size and expert guides set it apart from larger, more commercial options, making it a solid choice for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and comfort at a reasonable price.

If your goal is to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, enjoy a swim in scenic waters, and have refreshing drinks onboard, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable outing. It’s perfect for those who value local knowledge and want to avoid the crowds, especially if a small, friendly group and the chance to learn about marine life matter to you.

In brief, this trip is best suited for travelers who want a genuine, relaxed, and educational wildlife encounter with a touch of leisure. While it might not be the cheapest, the combination of small group intimacy, expert guides, and additional perks makes it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife holiday.