Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Cruise with Snack and Drinks

Cruising along the southern coast of Tenerife, the Costa Adeje Whale Watching Tour offers a chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat from a comfortable, well-equipped catamaran. For around $54 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours on the water, soaking up the sun, enjoying the scenery, and learning about marine life from friendly guides. The tour departs from Puerto Colón, boarding at Dock 10 or 15, and includes snacks and drinks, making it a reasonably priced way to connect with nature and unwind.

What we love most about this experience is how relaxed the day feels thanks to the cozy catamarans and the informative guides who share interesting tidbits about whale behavior and migration patterns. Plus, having snacks and drinks included means you don’t need to worry about packing a picnic or searching for refreshments ashore. On the flip side, the seasickness warning is worth noting if you’re prone to motion sickness—medication may be advisable. This tour appeals most to families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy marine wildlife and a laid-back ocean outing.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Spot whales like pilot whales and dolphins such as bottlenose and spotted dolphins.
• Comfort & Amenities: Modern catamarans equipped with sunbathing areas, restrooms, and a friendly crew.
• Inclusive Experience: Snacks, soft drinks, and beer are provided, with optional sun lounger rentals.
• Educational Insight: Guides share intriguing facts about marine animals and their habits.
• Flexible & Convenient: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, with optional hotel pickup in southern Tenerife.
• Value for Money: A well-priced tour offering both wildlife encounters and leisure in a 3-hour timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Departure and Setting Sail

As we arrived at Puerto Colón, the scene was bustling but organized. Boarding at Dock 10 or 15, we quickly settled into the luxury catamaran, which felt spacious and well-maintained. The crew greeted us warmly, and we appreciated the specialized guides who started with a brief overview of what to expect, including safety tips and the best spots for wildlife viewing.

The boat itself was modern, with plenty of space to relax. The front deck offered sun loungers for those willing to pay a bit extra, providing a prime spot for sunbathing and photo opportunities. The boat also had restroom facilities, a thoughtful touch on a 3-hour trip, especially for families or travelers with small children.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One aspect we particularly enjoyed was the relaxing atmosphere. The catamaran’s stability made for a smooth ride, even if the sea was a bit choppy at times. The views along the coast of Tenerife are stunning—cliffs, beaches, and the endless horizon all painting a picture that’s worth every euro.

Another highlight was the knowledgeable guide, who shared engaging stories about the creatures we hoped to see. Though not guaranteed, the chances of spotting pilot whales and dolphins are high, and our guide’s enthusiasm added a lot of value. We also appreciated the snacks and drinks, which included sandwiches, soft drinks, and beer—ideal for keeping energy levels up while we scanned the waters.

Marine Wildlife: What We Saw and Learned

The main goal is wildlife observation, and from the moment we left the harbor, we kept our eyes peeled. The reviews echoed this sentiment: “We saw a lot of dolphins,” said one traveler, while another mentioned they didn’t spot whales but enjoyed swimming in the ocean.

Our guide explained that pilot whales are among the most common sightings, often traveling in pods. We also glimpsed bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins, which thrilled everyone on board. The sea creatures seem curious but not shy, often surfacing close to the boat, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Interestingly, the educational insights given during the cruise made the experience more meaningful. Learning about migration patterns or behaviors helped us appreciate the animals’ lives better. The guides’ friendly demeanor and willingness to answer questions made the trip feel personalized rather than just a touristy spectacle.

The Swimming Stop: A Refreshing Interlude

One of the most talked-about parts of the trip was the swimming stop. The boat anchored in a peaceful spot where everyone had the chance to dive into the ocean, which many found to be a highlight. Mary, in her review, called it the “pinnacle of the 3-hour ride”—a perfect way to cool off and enjoy the sea.

If you wish, you can pay extra for a sun lounger at the front of the boat to catch some rays or simply relax in the water. Keep in mind, the sea temperature in Tenerife is usually pleasant enough for swimming, but a towel and sunscreen are must-haves.

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Food and Drink: Why It Matters

Having snacks and drinks included makes this tour an excellent value proposition. The sandwiches were fresh, and soft drinks kept everyone hydrated during the outing. Beer was also available, adding a relaxed touch to the journey. Several reviews mention the quality of the staff’s photos—a nice touch for those wanting to remember the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely day at sea. It caters well to families, with the inclusive snacks and informative guides making it relatively stress-free. Couples and solo travelers seeking a mix of wildlife spotting and relaxation will find it equally appealing. The price-to-value ratio is quite good considering the amenities, wildlife sightings, and the scenic setting.

Considerations Before Booking

A heads-up for those prone to seasickness — the sea can be choppy at times, and the boat, while stable, might still cause discomfort. Taking appropriate medication before the trip is advisable if you’re sensitive. Also, not wheelchair accessible is a note for travelers with mobility issues.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and family-friendly way to spend a few hours on Tenerife’s waters, this whale watching cruise hits the right notes. The combination of wildlife sightings, friendly guides, and complimentary snacks and drinks offers plenty of value for the price. Although whale sightings are not guaranteed, dolphins are often seen, and the overall atmosphere is joyful and laid-back.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate authentic encounters with nature without feeling rushed. It’s also a good option for those who want a comfortable boat with amenities and a small-group feeling. For anyone interested in marine life or simply looking for a beautiful sea adventure, it’s a solid choice.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with departure and return from Puerto Colón.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the catamaran cruise, a specialized guide, sandwiches and snacks, and soft drinks or beer.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, dolphins are frequently seen, and guides do their best to find whales like pilot whales and other species.

Is food provided?
Yes, sandwiches and snacks are included, with vegetarian and celiac options available.

Do I need to pay extra for anything?
Optional sun lounger rentals are available at additional cost, and you might want to purchase photos taken by the crew.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the trip suits families, but keep in mind the sea conditions if traveling with small children or those prone to seasickness.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and cash for extras.

Whether you’re eager to see whales, dolphins, or just enjoy a peaceful day on the water, this Costa Adeje whale watching cruise offers a genuine, enjoyable experience for a reasonable price. Pack your sense of adventure, a camera, and a good dose of curiosity—your ocean voyage awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: