Tenerife’s waters are a playground for marine life, making it one of the best spots in Europe for dolphin watching tours. Its strategic location in the Atlantic Ocean, combined with protected marine sanctuaries like the Teno-Rasca, ensures plenty of sightings. Whether you prefer a luxury yacht, an eco-friendly catamaran, or a speedboat adventure, Tenerife offers something for every explorer. One standout experience is the Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Eco-Cruise with Snacks & Drinks, which combines conservation with comfort, allowing you to hear underwater sounds and learn about the sea life from expert guides.
For those seeking a more active adventure, the Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise with Swim Stop offers a quick, 2-hour trip that includes a swim in turquoise waters beside towering cliffs. Meanwhile, the Whales & Dolphins watching in exclusive sailboat provides an intimate, small-group experience with the chance to snorkel and enjoy a private, peaceful ride.
1. Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Eco-Cruise with Snacks & Drinks
At number 1 on our list, this eco-friendly catamaran offers a relaxed but educational experience that emphasizes conservation. You can choose between a 3-hour or 5-hour trip, both including food, drinks, and swimming opportunities. What sets this tour apart is its guaranteed sighting policy—if you don’t see whales or dolphins, you get to reschedule for free. The crew’s commentary enhances your understanding of the marine ecosystem, and underwater sound equipment lets you listen to the ocean’s eerie calls. Reviewers note the expert guides’ attentiveness and the chance to see pilot whales, turtles, and flying fish in their natural habitat. The trip is perfect for families, nature lovers, or anyone who wants a responsible, comfortable experience. Bottom line: For about $48, you get a well-rounded, guided tour with a high success rate of sightings and plenty of time to swim.
2. Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise with Swim Stop
This 2-hour cruise from Los Gigantes is a great choice if your time is limited or if you want a quick burst of marine wildlife excitement. For just around $32, you’ll sail near the spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes and explore the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, Europe’s whale-watching capital. The trip includes a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Juan López or Masca Bay, making it a perfect combo of wildlife watching and relaxation. Reviews highlight the friendly crew and memorable encounters with dolphins and whales. It’s ideal for travelers who want an affordable, relaxed venture with the possibility of a swim. The short duration makes it accessible for families or those with tight schedules.
3. 3-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching and Listening Tour
Rated a perfect 5.0 based on over 600 reviews, this tour provides a three-hour ride along Tenerife’s south coast, with the unique feature of listening to marine sounds in real-time. The boat is equipped with underwater sound systems, allowing passengers to hear whales and dolphins communicate. It includes onboard catering and snorkeling gear, making it a more immersive experience. Reviewers praise the guides’ friendliness and the richness of marine life seen, including pilot whales and turtles. This tour is perfect for those interested in both visual sightings and marine acoustics, with a good balance of comfort and adventure. The value at $48.66 makes it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers.
4. Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks and Snacks
Sail in style on a luxury yacht cruise for about $74, enjoying the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and even turtles in their natural environment. This 3-hour tour is limited to a maximum of 11 passengers, ensuring a more intimate experience. Reviewers highlight the excellent service, with snacks and drinks served onboard, plus the opportunity to snorkel at a secluded bay. The tour’s high-end feel and small group size make it perfect for travelers who want comfort and exclusivity without sacrificing wildlife encounters. The tour’s reviews consistently rave about the memorable sightings and the friendly crew, making it a top pick for a relaxed yet immersive marine day.
5. Los Gigantes: Whale or dolphin watching and swimming tour in Masca
This two-hour trip from Los Gigantes combines whale and dolphin sightings with a scenic stop for swimming in Masca Bay, famous for its dramatic cliffs. The boat sails close to the Cliffs of Los Gigantes and offers a chance to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Reviewers enjoyed the swim in the spectacular bay, often citing it as a highlight. The tour’s focus on combining wildlife watching with a dip in pristine waters makes it suitable for active travelers who love both adventure and nature. It’s a compact yet rewarding experience, especially for those who appreciate stunning scenery and marine wildlife.
6. Tenerife Whales and Dolphins Watching Experience in Catamaran
Rated 5 stars with great reviews, this catamaran tour lasts about 3 hours and features a comfortable, spacious vessel with a focus solely on spotting whales and dolphins. It includes snacks, drinks, and the option to swim or snorkel in a nearby cove. The crew is experienced in finding marine life, and your chance of sightings is high. Reviewers love the relaxed vibe and the quality of the on-board catering, making it perfect for travelers wanting a more laid-back but still active wildlife experience. This tour is excellent for those prioritizing comfort and a dedicated marine focus over speed or luxury.
7. Whales & Dolphins watching in exclusive sailboat
Number 7 offers an intimate 3-hour experience on a small, private sailboat. It includes snorkeling gear, a catered lunch, and round-trip transport, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate a personalized trip. The reviews point out how the small group size enhances the experience, with many noting the professional, friendly crew and the opportunity to see pilot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. This option is perfect if you want a luxurious, quiet escape with quality food and fewer crowds. The personal attention and flexibility make it stand out for special occasions or travelers seeking exclusivity.
8. Tenerife 3-Hour Discover Whales and Dolphins
Rated 5 stars, this half-day sailing from Puerto Colon combines whale and dolphin spotting with an emphasis on relaxation. The smaller boat offers a more personal experience, with snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks included. Customers praise the knowledgeable crew and the diverse marine life observed, including pilot whales and fish. The flexible departure times and hotel transfers make it a convenient choice. If you want to combine whale watching with some leisure at sea, this trip offers a balanced, comfortable option.
9. Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South
This small-group outing, with a maximum of 8 people, offers a personalized experience focused on spotting whales and dolphins. The 20 years of navigation experience of the crew, along with snacks and snorkeling gear, make it a solid choice for travelers who want a relaxed, knowledgeable trip. Reviewers mention how the friendly captain and intimate atmosphere lead to memorable sightings, including pilot whales and dolphins. It’s perfect for those who prefer a less crowded, more tailored marine adventure.
10. Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Submarine Vision Mini Cruise
This two-hour cruise offers a unique underwater viewing experience via large windows in a spacious catamaran. It’s less about active wildlife encounters and more about seeing marine animals from inside the boat. Reviewers appreciate the sustainable approach and the multilingual guides. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see whales and dolphins without getting wet, especially families or those with mobility concerns.
11. Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat
For adrenaline lovers, this speedboat trip delivers a fast-paced 2-hour experience near Los Gigantes’ cliffs. The guaranteed sightings and the close-up view of whales and dolphins make it a thrilling choice. Reviewers love the exciting ride and the possibility for a swim. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of wind and spray in exchange for a more energetic marine adventure.
12. Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour on a Pirate Boat
Finally, the pirate-themed boat offers a lively 2-3 hour trip, including a paella lunch and drinks. It’s a festive, family-friendly option with dolphin and whale sightings in the background. Reviews highlight the friendly crew, great food, and fun atmosphere—especially for kids or groups wanting a more entertainment-focused experience. It balances wildlife viewing with a lively boat party vibe.
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Tenerife
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interest in luxury or adventure. For relaxed, eco-conscious travelers, the Costa Adeje Eco-Cruise offers high success rates and educational value. If you prefer a small, private experience, the Whales & Dolphins in exclusive sailboat is excellent. Budget-conscious travelers will find great value in the Los Gigantes speedboat or small-group sailing. For those craving luxury and comfort, the luxury yacht is hard to beat.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and experience. Think about whether you want a short trip (like the Los Gigantes swim tour) or a more comprehensive adventure with underwater sounds and longer durations.
In summary, Tenerife provides a wide range of dolphin and whale watching tours to suit every interest. Whether you want a luxury yacht, an eco-friendly cruise, or an adventurous speedboat, you’ll find options that deliver unforgettable marine encounters. For those new to marine life, the Costa Adeje eco-cruise offers a balanced experience with educational insights, while the small private sailboat is perfect for a more intimate trip. No matter your choice, booking ahead guarantees a spot for your ideal adventure in these waters teeming with life.