Dolphin and Whales watching cruise from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria

Dolphin and Whales Watching Cruise from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria

When it comes to sea adventures in Gran Canaria, this dolphin and whale watching cruise offers an engaging way to connect with the Atlantic’s aquatic residents. For around $46.44 per person, you’ll hop aboard the “Spirit of the Sea” for about 2.5 hours, departing from Puerto Rico, with options to upgrade for a longer trip and even include round-trip transfers from some resorts.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see dolphins swim alongside the boat, often in playful family groups, thanks to the Canary Islands’ status as a hotspot for cetaceans—around 30 species reside here. The glass-bottom sections provide a unique view into underwater life, making it a hit for families and curious travelers alike. Plus, the crew’s knowledgeable and friendly attitude adds a layer of comfort and insight that makes the trip more meaningful.

A possible consideration is the weather—rough seas or wind can sometimes limit marine sightings or cause seasickness, as some reviews mention. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bringing medication like Dramamine might be wise. This tour best suits travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters and enjoy a laid-back, scenic cruise. It’s particularly ideal for those who appreciate good value for money and don’t mind the possibility of not seeing whales on every trip.

Key Points

• Marine Biodiversity: The Canary Islands are home to about 30 cetacean species, making sightings quite rewarding.
• Flexible Options: Choose from different departure times and upgrade to longer cruises with swimming stops.
• Educational & Fun: The crew provides interesting insights into the animals seen, enhancing the experience.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, especially those interested in marine life and scenic boat rides.
• Weather Dependency: Sighting success can depend heavily on weather conditions.
• Good Value: Compared to similar tours, the price and inclusions (like unlimited sodas and underwater views) offer solid value.

A Detailed Look at the Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Starting Out: The Experience Begins in Puerto Rico

Your journey kicks off at the Spirit of the Sea dock in Puerto Rico, where friendly staff greet you and handle the check-in process smoothly. The tour includes hotel pickup from select areas—Mogan, Taurito, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, San Agustin, and Bahia Feliz—making it a convenient choice for many travelers. If your accommodation isn’t on the list, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.

The boat itself is designed for comfort, with a spacious deck ideal for viewing, and a glass-bottom section that offers a glimpse into the underwater world beneath. This feature is especially appreciated by birders and those who enjoy observing marine life without getting wet. The boat’s size, accommodating up to 97 travelers, ensures a lively but not overcrowded atmosphere.

The Cruise Itinerary & What to Expect

The cruise departs at both 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, providing flexibility depending on your plans. The route takes you into the scenic southwest coast of Gran Canaria, sailing for roughly 2.5 hours. During this time, the crew actively searches for dolphins, whales, pilot, and minke whales, with the hope of rewarding your patience with exciting sightings.

One of the highlights is the crew’s knowledgeable commentary—they often point out different species and share interesting facts, making the trip not just visually engaging but educational too. As one reviewer remarked, “Captain Lorenzo easily located whales and dolphins to watch and follow, encouraging you to take pictures and explaining about sea life,” adding value for photography buffs.

Marine Life Sightings: What You Might See

The Canary Islands are a biodiverse haven for cetaceans, and many travelers report seeing families of dolphins, sometimes up to 500 at a time, swimming effortlessly alongside the boat. The playful nature of dolphins leaves many passengers with unforgettable memories, as echoed in reviews like “we saw a pod of about 500 Atlantic Dolphins up close and personal… loved it.”

While dolphins are common, whale sightings are less guaranteed. Some reviews mention seeing flying fish, turtles, and even orcas, while others note no sightings at all—a reminder that nature doesn’t always cooperate. The company’s policy of offering a second cruise free if no marine mammals are seen reflects their confidence that you’ll enjoy the experience regardless.

Underwater Viewing & Refreshments

The glass-bottom sections are a clever way to enhance the marine experience, especially when the sea is clear. You might catch glimpses of underwater flora and fauna, and it’s a great feature for kids or those who prefer a more relaxed observation.

Onboard, unlimited sodas keep everyone refreshed, while snacks and alcohol are available for purchase. This setup allows you to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, and many reviews praise the crew’s attentiveness, especially when seasick passengers need assistance.

Upgrades & Additional Options

For those wanting more out of their trip, there are upgraded options. You can opt for a longer cruise that includes a swim stop—perfect if you’re eager to dip into the Atlantic or just want a break from sightseeing. Plus, round-trip transfers from selected resorts are available, offering a hassle-free experience, especially if you’d rather not worry about driving or parking.

The Realities of Marine Sightings

Authentic travelers know that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Several reviews mention that, despite the crew’s efforts, sometimes no dolphins or whales are seen, and the trip can feel a little disappointing. One traveler noted, “We didn’t see one dolphin, never mind a whale—only turtles and a plastic bottle.” However, others emphasize the professionalism of the crew and the value of the overall experience—even if the marine life is elusive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing day at sea. If you’re interested in marine conservation, you’ll appreciate the crew’s efforts to collect plastic from the ocean, making it a trip with a positive environmental impact. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate good value—the price includes unlimited drinks and underwater views, and the potential for multiple sightings.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a fun, engaging way to see dolphins, whales, and seabirds off Gran Canaria, this cruise offers a solid option. The friendly, knowledgeable crew and the glass-bottom features make it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to connect with the ocean’s wild inhabitants in their natural habitat.

While marine sightings can never be guaranteed, the ** Canary Islands’ rich diversity** and the company’s flexible options increase your chances of a memorable encounter. The tour’s reasonable price point and well-organized logistics make it an attractive choice for many travelers.

This experience best suits those who enjoy scenic boat trips and are open-minded about the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. If you’re a family with kids, a birdwatcher, or someone keen on marine conservation, you’ll find this cruise both enjoyable and meaningful. Just remember to bring seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive, and keep your expectations flexible—sometimes, the ocean just doesn’t cooperate, but the journey itself is often worth it.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the 2.5-hour cruise from Puerto Rico, hotel pickup from select areas, and unlimited onboard sodas.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard, but they are not included in the ticket price.

Can I upgrade the trip?
Yes, you can upgrade to a longer cruise with a swim stop. Upgrades are available for those wanting a bit more time at sea.

Is transportation provided from all resorts?
Transportation is only offered from specific areas such as Mogan, Taurito, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, San Agustin, and Bahia Feliz. If you’re staying outside these, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point.

What if I don’t see any marine animals?
The company offers a second cruise free if no dolphins or whales are seen during your trip, so you have a good chance for a second try.

How long is the boat trip?
The standard trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, and if you’re prone to seasickness, medication like Dramamine.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Absolutely, it’s suitable for all ages, especially those interested in wildlife and scenic boat rides.

This dolphin and whale watching cruise from Puerto Rico offers a great balance of adventure, education, and relaxation. If you love the idea of spotting playful dolphins in their natural environment and enjoying Atlantic views, this tour should definitely be on your list.