Los Cristianos: Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise with Swim

When you’re visiting Tenerife and craving a chance to see marine mammals in their natural habitat, this Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Tour from Los Cristianos offers a compelling blend of wildlife, scenic coastline, and oceanic relaxation. For just $17 per person, you get about 2 hours of sailing, which includes the thrill of spotting whales and dolphins, a scenic trip past the “Love” cave, and a refreshing swim in the ocean.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are its dedicated focus on sustainable tourism—the boat has low emission engines and a low center of gravity for reduced seasickness—and the expert crew that makes spotting marine life feel like a shared adventure rather than a gamble. The chance to swim and snorkel in the clear Atlantic waters adds an extra layer of fun.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency—like all ocean trips, the experience can be affected by tides, wind, or Calima, which may lead to choppier seas or limited wildlife sightings. Also, if you’re not a swimmer or prefer not to get wet, the swim stop might be less appealing.

This tour suits nature lovers, families with kids, or anyone keen on a respectful, eco-friendly wildlife encounter. If you’re eager to learn about marine mammals without the hassle of chasing animals, and you appreciate safety, comfort, and authenticity, this is a trip worth considering.

Key Points

• Unique vessel design offers a more stable, less seasick-inducing experience
• Wildlife encounters include whales, dolphins, and possibly turtles or sharks
• Swim stop provides a relaxing break with snorkeling opportunities
• Sustainable focus with low emission engines and eco-certifications
• Expert crew ensures a safe, informative, and friendly atmosphere
• Ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a responsible tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Marine Adventure around Tenerife’s Coast

When we think about the appeal of Tenerife’s marine excursions, what often comes to mind is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment—something that stirs a sense of wonder and respect. This particular tour centers on that experience, while also emphasizing safety, sustainability, and comfort.

The Vessel: Travelin’ Lady

The Travelin’ Lady stands out as the only boat built specifically for whale watching in the Canary Islands. Its low side design, with the deck near sea level, creates a more intimate viewing experience—you might even feel tempted to reach out and touch the whales that surface nearby. This setup, combined with a fiber-reinforced hull that is 22 cm thick, provides excellent stability and safety, even in slightly rougher seas, making it a thoughtful choice for travelers prone to seasickness.

The Itinerary: Seeing & Experting

The tour kicks off from Los Cristianos port at Fisherman’s Wharf, with a meeting point clearly marked and a quick 20-minute prep time before departure. The boat sets sail, heading past the coast to spot whales, dolphins, and maybe even some rare creatures like killer whales or blue whales.

A highlight is the passage by the famous cave of “Love,” which provides a dramatic backdrop to the voyage and a photo opportunity—a chance to snap pictures of the rugged coastline. Most travelers report seeing bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and fin whales, with some lucky ones catching glimpses of resident tortoises or larger whales.

The crew does a commendable job of maintaining respectful distances from the animals, avoiding chasing or stressing the wildlife. One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing whales and dolphins in the wild without disturbing them felt like a real privilege,” echoing the practice of responsible wildlife watching.

The Swim & Snorkel Stop

Before returning, the boat anchors for about 15-20 minutes in a calm spot where travelers can swim and snorkel. Bring your goggles—because, as one review pointed out, they’re not provided—and enjoy floating among tropical fish and observing the ocean from a different perspective. This stop is optional but generally appreciated, especially since it offers a relaxing break after wildlife spotting.

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The Crew & Experience

Throughout the trip, you’ll be in the hands of knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew. Many reviews highlight the crew’s enthusiasm, helpfulness, and informative commentary. Maria, Sergio, Conrado, and others are praised for their fun, relaxed attitude and their ability to share interesting facts about the animals you see.

The boat boasts environmental certifications, including the prestigious Blue Boat label from the Canary Islands government, meaning it meets strict safety and ecological standards. With low emission engines, the trip minimizes environmental impact—a big plus for eco-conscious travelers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Trip

Departure & Initial Sailing

Arriving at the port 20 minutes early is advised—boarding closes 5 minutes before departure. Once onboard, the boat’s spacious layout means even on busy days, you won’t feel cramped. The professional crew immediately sets a friendly tone, explaining what to expect and sharing safety info.

Wildlife Watching

As the boat cruises along the coast, the crew will be on the lookout for whales and dolphins. The experience is largely dependent on wildlife activity, which can vary daily. Still, reviews report frequent sightings, sometimes multiple species in a single trip. The low center of gravity of the vessel helps prevent seasickness, which many travelers appreciate.

The guides are a highlight—they often speak in multiple languages (English, French, Spanish, Italian) and are eager to share insights, which enhances the experience. One reviewer raves, “Maria was such a good guide,” noting her informative yet relaxed style.

Scenic Stops & Photo Opportunities

Passing the Love cave offers impressive scenery—an ideal spot for a quick photo or just to soak in the dramatic coastline. For those interested, the stops for photos in Palm-Mar or just passing by are great opportunities to capture memories.

The Swim & Relaxation

The 15-minute swim stop is a highlight for many, allowing you to cool off and enjoy the ocean. Many reviews mention how the relaxed atmosphere and friendly crew make the swim feel safe and enjoyable. Remember, towels and snorkel equipment are not included, so bring your own if you want to maximize this part of the trip.

Return & Reflection

As the boat heads back to port, most travelers feel a sense of fulfillment—whether from seeing whales and dolphins, enjoying the scenic coastline, or just the tranquility of the ocean. The short duration fits well into a day’s schedule, leaving room for other activities.

Practical Tips to Make the Most

• Arrive 20 minutes early to avoid missing the boat.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the sun can be intense on the water.
• Pack goggles for the swim stop, as they’re not provided.
• Dress comfortably, with layers if you’re sensitive to cold or wind.
• Consider taking a motion sickness pill if you’re prone to seasickness, especially during Calima or windy days.
• Keep in mind, snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, but bringing your own water and small snacks may be a good idea.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale watching trip is perfect for families, wildlife lovers, and eco-conscious travelers. Its focus on respectful wildlife viewing and sustainability appeals to those who want a responsible, authentic encounter. If you enjoy scenic coastal views combined with marine life, and don’t mind a bit of ocean breeze, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate informative guides and comfortable boats, and those who want a moderate-length outing without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Sum Up

This eco-friendly whale watching cruise from Los Cristianos offers a solid balance of wildlife spotting, scenic beauty, and ocean fun at an affordable price. The dedicated vessel design and expert crew help ensure a safe, comfortable, and respectful interaction with marine mammals. The swim stop adds a refreshing element of relaxation, making the tour not just about wildlife but also about enjoying the ocean environment.

For those eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, while supporting sustainable tourism, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s especially good for travelers who value authentic, well-organized experiences with knowledgeable guides and a focus on environmental responsibility.

If you’re visiting Tenerife and want a meaningful marine adventure that balances fun with respect for nature, this tour will likely exceed your expectations. Just remember to arrive early, bring your goggles, and be ready for a memorable day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip. The boat’s stability and friendly crew make it a good choice for kids, especially with the swim stop and wildlife viewing.

Do I need to bring snorkel equipment?
Snorkel gear is not included, so if you want to snorkel, bring your own goggles. The stop is a relaxing chance to float and observe underwater life.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your plans.

What safety measures are in place?
The boat is built with safety certificates, has life vests and rafts, and is operated by a professional crew committed to safety and environmental standards.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is around 2 hours, with specific departure times available—perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The boat features low emission, smokeless engines and is certified as a Blue Boat, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Most commonly, dolphins and pilot whales, along with fin whales and possibly turtles, sharks, or even killer whales.

Is seasickness a concern?
Thanks to the boat’s low center of gravity and stable design, seasickness is less likely, but taking a motion sickness pill is recommended if you’re sensitive.

Are drinks and snacks available onboard?
Yes, there is a bar with soft drinks, beer, and snacks for purchase. However, towels and snorkel gear are not provided.

Where do I meet the boat?
At Fisherman’s Wharf, Zone A, behind the green fence. Staff are available at kiosk number 1 for questions.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, comprehensive look at what you can expect from the Los Cristianos Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise. By focusing on the genuine experiences and practical tips, we hope to help you decide if this is the right adventure for your Tenerife holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: