Lanzarote’s rugged coastline, clear Atlantic waters, and abundant marine life make it an excellent spot for dolphin watching. The island’s remote beaches and strong conservation ethos mean that many tours focus on observing these playful creatures in their natural habitat. We particularly like the dolphin-watching sunset cruise, which combines stunning sunsets and the chance to see wild dolphins, all while relaxing with a drink in hand. That blend of scenic beauty and wildlife encounters makes for a memorable evening.
Whether you prefer a leisurely sunset sail, a speedy speedboat adventure, or an eco-friendly excursion on a silent catamaran, Lanzarote offers something for every wildlife lover. The variety of tours, high review ratings, and options to include whale sightings, snorkeling, and island visits make it a fantastic destination for marine life enthusiasts. Below, we’ve detailed the 12 best dolphin watching tours on Lanzarote to help you pick the perfect one for your trip.
1. Lanzarote: Dolphin-Watching Sunset Cruise with Transfers
Starting with the Lanzarote: Dolphin-Watching Sunset Cruise with Transfers, this tour is a favorite for its combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and relaxed atmosphere. Over 1,684 reviews averaging 4.2/5 highlight its popularity. For around $58 per person, you get about 2 hours aboard a comfortable boat sailing along Puerto del Carmen’s coast as the sun dips below the horizon.
What makes this trip stand out is its focus on wild dolphins in their natural environment, with many passengers also spotting whales, adding to the magic. The crew creates a peaceful, romantic vibe, offering delicious canapés and a chilled mojito, making it ideal for couples or anyone wanting a laid-back evening. The itinerary includes hotel pickups from 17 locations, a scenic cruise with dolphin and whale sightings, and drop-offs at multiple spots. Reviewers love the friendly crew and the chance to witness dolphins leaping at sunset—an experience that often exceeds expectations.
Bottom line: A relaxing, romantic evening perfect for sunset lovers and wildlife enthusiasts willing to pay a little extra for comfort and scenery.
2. Lanzarote: 2.5-Hour Sunset and Dolphins Cruise
Next up on our list, the Lanzarote 2.5-Hour Sunset and Dolphins Cruise offers a speedy, modern adventure aboard the sleek “Biosfera Jet.” This tour, rated 4.2/5 from over 1,000 reviews, is perfect for those short on time but eager to combine dolphin spotting with a stunning sunset.
During this cruise, which lasts 2.5 hours, you’ll benefit from the expertise of a professional crew while gliding across the Atlantic. The boat’s speed and design allow for swift exploration of Lanzarote’s coast, with many guests reporting close encounters with dolphins and sightings of whales. The tour also includes a short bus transfer from various pickup points, making logistics simple. Passengers appreciate the breathtaking views and the chance to see marine life in their natural environment.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a quick, high-energy trip with guaranteed scenic views and good chances of dolphin sightings, especially during sunset.
3. Small Group Dolphin Sunset Tour on Electric Catamaran
For those seeking an eco-friendly experience, the Small Group Dolphin Sunset Tour on Electric Catamaran is a standout. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 81 reviews, it offers an intimate setting—max 12 guests—for about $87 per person. The tour lasts roughly 2.5 hours and departs from Puerto Calero.
What makes this trip special is its electric-powered catamaran, which operates silently and emission-free, allowing you to observe marine mammals like dolphins and whales with minimal disturbance. The crew provides insights about local cetaceans, and you can enjoy included beer, soda, and snacks as you watch the sunset. Many travelers highlight the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to see dolphins up close while enjoying a sustainable tour. Since it’s a small-group experience, it suits travelers craving a more personal, ecological adventure.
Bottom line: An eco-conscious choice for wildlife lovers who prefer a quieter, more intimate setting with excellent reviews on environmental impact.
4. Lanzarote: Lobos Island Half-Day Dolphin Watching Trip
The Lanzarote: Lobos Island Half-Day Dolphin Watching Trip combines wildlife viewing with island exploration. Rated 4.2/5 from 483 reviews, at $82, it offers a 5.5-hour experience that includes a fast boat ride, a visit to Lobos Island, and a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
This tour is unique because it blends dolphin and whale sightings with visiting Lobos Island, known for its pristine beaches and unspoiled landscapes. The itinerary includes a guided tour and free time on Lobos for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. Many reviews praise the nice picnic and the chance to see dolphins, whales, and even sea turtles. The trip is suitable for nature lovers who enjoy a mix of wildlife and scenic island atmospheres. The only potential downside is that sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the trip’s length and scenery make it worthwhile regardless.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting both wildlife encounters and island adventures, with enough time to relax and soak up Lanzarote’s natural beauty.
5. Puerto del Carmen: Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Tour with Swim
If you love adrenaline and speed, the Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Tour with Swim delivers. Rated 3.7/5 from 1322 reviews, this 1.5-hour trip costs about $40 and is perfect for thrill-seekers who want a quick, exciting experience.
The highlight is the fast boat ride, which zooms around Lanzarote’s coast in search of dolphins and whales. The tour often includes swimming opportunities in crystal-clear waters, making it more than just a wildlife safari. Many reviewers mention the close encounters with dolphins and the fun of the high-speed ride. The tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a shorter trip but want a chance to see marine life while enjoying a bit of adrenaline. The main drawback could be the weather—rough seas may limit dolphin sightings.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure lovers who want a quick, energetic day with wildlife and water activities combined.
$40 per person
6. Lanzarote: Whale and Dolphin Watching Eco-Friendly Catamaran
The Lanzarote Whale and Dolphin Watching Eco-Friendly Catamaran offers a silent journey aboard Lanzarote’s first fully electric catamaran. With a 4.7/5 rating from 31 reviews, this 4-hour tour costs $108 but emphasizes sustainable travel and marine observation.
This trip is notable for its eco-friendly approach, allowing you to observe dolphins and whales without disturbing them. The crew provides local snacks and drinks and shares insights during the voyage. Many reviews mention the unforgettable moments of seeing pods of dolphins and a whale in the distance. This tour suits environmentally conscious travelers and those wanting a deeper, more educational experience with small-group intimacy. The longer duration offers a relaxed pace for wildlife watching and photography.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for eco-minded travelers who want to see marine mammals in a quiet, sustainable setting.
7. Whale & Dolphin Observation on Silent Catamaran with Hydrophone
If you’re fascinated by listening to whales and dolphins, this Silent Catamaran with Hydrophone is a top pick. With a 4.5/5 rating from 43 reviews and costing about $109, this 4-hour tour combines quiet navigation with the thrill of listening to marine mammals.
The hydrophone allows you to hear the sounds of whales and dolphins communicating, adding an educational and immersive element. The boat is eco-friendly and emission-free, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife. Reviewers love the informative commentary and the chance to see dolphins and whales up close, often in large pods. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want more than just pictures—they want to experience the soundscape of marine life.
Bottom line: A highly recommended trip for wildlife enthusiasts interested in marine acoustics and sustainable adventures.
8. 2hrs Dolphins Sunset Sailing Cruise With Drink
The 2 Hours Dolphins Sunset Sailing Cruise With Drink offers a relaxed, intimate way to enjoy Lanzarote’s coastline. Rated 4.0/5 from 155 reviews, it costs around $58.50 per person. It’s perfect for those who want a shorter experience but still get to see dolphins at sunset.
This cruise departs from Puerto del Carmen, and guests are treated to a welcome mojito, canapés, and scenic sailing as the sun dips. Many reviewers mention the relaxed atmosphere and the possibility of spotting dolphins during the cruise. The small group size creates a cozy environment, making it suitable for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, laid-back evening. The main drawback is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, but the scenic setting and relaxing vibe compensate for that.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking for a short, romantic sunset experience with a chance to see dolphins in a relaxed setting.
9. Lanzarote Sunset Experience with Dolphin Spotting
The Lanzarote Sunset Experience with Dolphin Spotting is notable for its eco-friendly electric catamaran operating at sunset. Rated 4.6/5 from 27 reviews, it lasts about 2.5 hours and provides a peaceful, eco-conscious way to see dolphins like the Atlantic spotted and common dolphin.
This tour emphasizes sustainable travel, with a quiet, emission-free vessel that allows marine mammals to behave naturally. Many passengers highlight seeing dolphins and whales and enjoying refreshing local beverages while cruising. It’s perfect for environmentally minded travelers who value wildlife observation without disturbance. The quiet operation enhances the chances of witnessing natural behaviors of marine mammals, making it a favorite for serious wildlife watchers.
Bottom line: An excellent eco-friendly option for those who want a relaxed, responsible wildlife experience at sunset.
10. Lanzarote: Dolphin Watching by Speedboat
The Dolphin Watching by Speedboat is perfect for adventure seekers. With a 4.6/5 rating from just 20 reviews, it provides a quick, high-energy 2-2.5 hour ride costing around €50. This tour is all about close-up marine wildlife encounters and speedy exploration.
Many reviewers mention seeing dolphins and whales in their natural environment, often very close to the boat. The speedboat’s agility allows for zooming around the coast, and some trips include swimming opportunities. This tour suits those who are comfortable with fast rides and want a thrilling experience. The shorter duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer active, outdoor adventures.
Bottom line: Best for thrill-minded travelers eager for close dolphin encounters and a bit of adrenaline.
11. Lobos Island – The dolphin route
Finally, the Lobos Island – The dolphin route offers a five-hour voyage focusing heavily on marine mammals, especially dolphins. Rated 4.0/5 from 69 reviews, it provides guided boat trips with free time on Lobos Island for exploration and swimming.
This tour maximizes dolphin spotting chances by taking a super-fast boat to Lobos, with detailed cetacean information shared during the ride. Many reviews celebrate seeing multiple dolphin species and enjoying lunch onboard. It’s best suited for nature lovers who enjoy extended trips with a mix of wildlife watching and island relaxation. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient. The only downside may be the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings.
Bottom line: Great for dedicated wildlife fans who want a longer, more in-depth marine mammal experience combined with island visits.
12. Dolphin Watching Mini Cruise and Snorkeling from Lanzarote
Our final choice, the Dolphin Watching Mini Cruise and Snorkeling, offers a quick 1.5-hour adventure at about $49. It combines wildlife viewing with snorkeling in Lanzarote’s clear waters.
The tour is ideal for those who want a taste of marine life and water fun without a long commitment. Many reviewers highlight dolphins, whales, and flying fish seen during the trip, along with panoramic views of Lanzarote. It’s suitable for families and travelers who prefer a short, active experience. The main drawback is it’s a shorter trip, so sightings are less guaranteed but still worthwhile for the chance to swim and watch marine mammals in one outing.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a compact, family-friendly tour combining wildlife and snorkeling.
How to Choose Your Lanzarote Dolphin Tour
Picking the right dolphin watching tour depends on what you’re after. If you want a relaxed, scenic sunset with canapés, the sunset cruise is perfect. For a more eco-conscious experience, opt for the electric catamaran. If you’re short on time but craving thrills, the speedboat offers a fast-paced adventure, while families or water lovers might prefer the snorkeling mini cruise.
Budget considerations matter—most tours range from around $40 to $108 per person, with eco and small-group options costing a bit more. Think about your preferred duration; shorter trips often mean less likelihood of dolphin sightings but more flexibility, while longer tours like Lobos Island or eco-friendly trips offer more chances but require a bigger time commitment. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and experience.
Lanzarote offers a variety of marine wildlife tours, from sunset cruises to eco-friendly explorations. If you’re after a romantic evening, try the sunset sail or eco-catamaran. For adventure seekers, speedboat trips deliver excitement and close encounters. Wildlife enthusiasts should consider the longer tours to Lobos Island or the silent hydrophone experience. Whatever your taste, Lanzarote’s waters promise unforgettable moments with wild dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Make your choice, book early, and get ready for some memorable ocean magic.