Gran Canaria: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Imagine gliding across calm, sunlit waters off Gran Canaria, searching for playful dolphins and majestic whales in their natural habitat. For just around $41 per person, this boat trip offers an up-close look at marine life, with the chance to see dolphins leaping and whales breaching—an adventure that can turn a regular day into a highlight of your trip. Guided by knowledgeable crew members, you’ll relax on the deck with refreshing drinks available for purchase, enjoy stunning ocean views, and perhaps even snap that perfect photo of a pod of dolphins racing alongside the boat.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see marine animals in their natural environment, which makes it more meaningful than a zoo visit. The crew’s passion and dedication to wildlife are evident, and their efforts to find the animals often result in spectacular sightings. Plus, the flexibility offered by the company—like rerunning the trip if no wildlife is spotted—adds peace of mind. On the flip side, keep in mind that weather conditions and animal movement mean sightings aren’t guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the adventure.

This tour suits travelers who cherish authentic outdoor experiences and don’t mind a bit of sea spray or choppy waters. It’s especially popular among families, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a memorable, budget-friendly activity that combines fun and education. If you’re hoping for a calm, guaranteed wildlife show, you should know that sightings depend on the animals’ natural routines, not a scripted show.

This experience made our article of Gran Canaria’s 12 Best Cruises And Boat Tours.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters in the natural habitat of dolphins and whales.
• Flexible booking: free voucher for a return trip if animals aren’t seen.
• Family-friendly: suitable for children and all ages.
• Expert crew passionate about marine life, ensuring an engaging experience.
• Refreshments available on board, making the trip comfortable.
• Weather-dependent, so sightings aren’t always guaranteed but efforts are made to find the animals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

When booking a Dolphin and Whale Watching cruise in Gran Canaria, you’re signing up for more than just a boat ride. It’s about the chance to see some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures in their everyday lives. The tour departs from Puerto Rico at 10:15 AM, and the vessel is operated by Líneas Salmón, S.L., a company with a good reputation based on hundreds of reviews.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The adventure starts with a short wait at the harbor—a time that some find a bit long (around 40 minutes). While this might test your patience, it’s a common feature of wildlife excursions where timing depends on animal activity. Once underway, the boat swiftly sets sail into Gran Canaria’s waters, where the crew actively scans for dolphins and whales.

The core of the trip is the joy of seeing dolphins in their natural environment—a truly special moment. Many reviewers like Rachael and Marian highlight how “seeing dolphins was the highlight of their holiday,” and images of playful pods bouncing out of the water make it clear why. As Bianca points out, “the captain went above and beyond to find the dolphins,” emphasizing the crew’s dedication.

Marine Life Sightings

The reviews offer a vivid picture: pods of striped dolphins swimming beside the boat, flying fish skimming the surface, even glimpses of pilot whales and a fin whale, the second-largest whale species after the blue whale. Some lucky travelers have even seen turtles and baby whales, making each trip a different adventure.

A key feature is the guarantee of a return visit if animals aren’t seen—an excellent reassurance. David’s experience stands out: after an unsuccessful Monday trip, the crew gave everyone free tickets to try again, and on the second day, “hundreds of striped dolphins were right beside us.” This policy proves that the company cares about customer satisfaction and wildlife engagement, not just ticking boxes.

The Crew and Atmosphere

The crew, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, play a critical role in making this trip memorable. Mario, in particular, earns numerous accolades for his enthusiasm and dedication, providing informative commentary that enhances the experience. Vanessa shares a touching story about how staff like Mario go out of their way to help, even assisting with seasickness.

The boat itself is described as clean, secure, and comfortable, though some reviews mention that the seats can be a little hard—this is typical for boats, so bringing a cushion or planning for some discomfort might help. Group sizes are moderate, allowing for a convivial atmosphere without feeling crowded.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Value

For $41, this tour offers excellent value considering the potential for unforgettable wildlife sightings. The ticket price includes the boat trip itself, with drinks available for purchase. The optional “reserve and pay later” feature makes it flexible for travelers unsure of their plans.

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable daytime activity that fits well within a broader itinerary. Keep in mind that the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and watching out for weather conditions is wise—rough seas can lead to seasickness, as some reviewers have experienced.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, animal lovers, and travelers who appreciate authentic encounters in nature rather than staged shows. The combination of the crew’s dedication, the chance to see a variety of marine species, and the relaxed atmosphere make it a well-loved activity for those wanting a meaningful outdoor adventure.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a dolphin and whale watching cruise in Gran Canaria means opting for a nature-centered, budget-friendly experience** that can deliver breathtaking moments—if luck is on your side. The effort the crew makes to find the animals, combined with the chance to relax with drinks and take photos, makes this a worthwhile outing. Even if you don’t see dolphins on your first trip, the company’s policy of offering free returns ensures you’ll get a second shot, which many reviewers have appreciated.

This tour is best suited for those who don’t mind a boat ride, are patient, and enjoy wildlife in its natural environment. It’s particularly attractive if you’re traveling with children or just looking for a memorable, affordable day at sea. Remember, the most rewarding moments often come unexpectedly, so come prepared with your camera, a hat, and a sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts about 2.5 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without it feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase from the on-board bar, so you can bring cash or cards to buy refreshments during the trip.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, making this trip a family-friendly activity, perfect for introducing kids to marine wildlife.

What if we don’t see dolphins or whales?
The company offers a free voucher for a return trip if no marine animals are spotted—an excellent way to ensure you’re not disappointed.

Is the trip suitable for pregnant women?
No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant women due to the potential for choppy waters and rough seas.

How should I prepare for the trip?
Bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and consider seasickness tablets if you’re concerned about motion sickness. The crew is helpful and provides support if needed.

In the end, this dolphin and whale watching cruise offers a balanced mix of excitement, education, and relaxation. With a dedicated crew, flexible policies, and the chance to witness marine animals in their natural environment, it can be a highlight of your visit to Gran Canaria. Just remember to keep your camera ready, your patience handy, and your expectations open—nature rarely puts on a perfect show, but when it does, it’s unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: