No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first – we care

No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first – we care

This relaxed, two-hour boat trip from Los Cristianos Harbor offers an authentic chance to see some of Tenerife’s most beloved marine mammals, like pilot whales and dolphins, in their natural habitat. For just around $23, you’ll be sailing aboard a beautiful Bahriyeli schooner, a 23-meter Turkish Gulet with two masts, that promises a comfortable and eco-conscious voyage. The tour is guided by a knowledgeable crew committed to respecting marine wildlife, emphasizing a no chase policy that prioritizes the well-being of animals over close-up selfies.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the traditional sailing boat itself is a treat — its design and the breeze created by its sails contribute to a truly authentic experience. Second, the marine life encounters are handled with care, keeping a respectful distance and offering insightful explanations that enhance your understanding of the animals and their environment. With views of Mount Teide and the south coast, this tour combines scenic beauty with wildlife viewing, making it suitable for all ages.

One potential consideration is that close encounters are not guaranteed — the animals are free to come and go as they please, and sometimes sightings might be distant or brief. If your main goal is guaranteed close-up photos, this may not be the trip for you; however, if you value ethical wildlife watching and learning about marine life in a responsible way, this tour offers great value.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back, educational outing and appreciate the idea of seeing marine mammals without disturbing them. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who simply want a scenic sail with the chance to see dolphins and whales will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Responsible wildlife viewing: Emphasizes a no chase policy, prioritizing animal safety and natural behaviors.
• Authentic sailing experience: Travel aboard a traditional Bahriyeli schooner for a classic maritime atmosphere.
• Scenic views: Likely to see Mount Teide and Tenerife’s stunning south coast from the water.
• Expert guidance: The crew provides informed and respectful explanations about the marine species spotted.
• Affordable and accessible: At around $23, this tour offers great value for a memorable wildlife experience.
• Eco-friendly approach: Collaborating with Sea Shepherd UK, the tour is committed to sea and wildlife conservation.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting from Los Cristianos Harbor, the meeting point is easy to reach, especially if you’re already exploring the town or nearby beaches. Once onboard the Bahriyeli schooner, you’re greeted by a friendly, professional crew eager to share their knowledge. The vessel is sizable and stable, with a large covered salon for those who prefer to stay out of the sun or wind — a nice touch, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or just want a break from the elements.

The duration of approximately two hours strikes a balance between depth and comfort — enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling fatigued or restless. During the sail, you’ll get to see the south coast of Tenerife, characterized by rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, with Mount Teide towering in the background, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Marine Wildlife Viewing

The main draw is the chance to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment. Several reviews highlight the respectful approach of the crew, who maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals. As one reviewer noted, “We saw dolphins and whales. It was magical,” emphasizing how special these moments can be when animals are free to behave naturally.

While sightings can vary based on the day and animals’ preferences, many travelers report seeing multiple groups of pilot whales and dolphins, sometimes putting on playful displays or surfacing close enough to enjoy. A review from “Paula_O” praised the knowledgeable crew for their “great speakers & very informative” commentary, which enriches the experience beyond just looking at marine mammals. They also appreciate the crew’s effort to identify and explain what you’re seeing, making it accessible even for children.

Scenic and Educational Highlights

Beyond wildlife, the tour offers stunning panoramic views. Several reviews mention the spectacular vistas of Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest mountain, which you can admire from the water. The crew’s eco-conscious approach is also noteworthy, emphasizing sustainable practices and respect for marine life, complemented by their partnership with organizations like Sea Shepherd UK.

Comfort and Convenience

The boat’s large salon offers shelter and a place to relax, which is especially helpful if the weather turns windy or if anyone wants a break from the sun. The vessel accommodates up to 136 travelers, but many trips feel intimate, with plenty of space for everyone.

Food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing some snacks or water is advisable. There’s a possibility to purchase souvenir photos, allowing you to keep a memory of your marine adventure. The tour’s mobile ticket makes booking straightforward, and most travelers find the timing convenient, with trips booked about 6 days in advance on average.

Review Highlights and Honest Perspectives

The majority of reviews are glowing, with 4.6 out of 5 stars based on over 2000 reviews. People rave about the friendly crew, the good value, and the ethical stance on wildlife watching. Several praise the knowledgeable guides for their engaging commentary, making the experience both fun and educational.

However, some reviews note that sightings can be distant, and close-ups aren’t always guaranteed. One reviewer expressed disappointment after not seeing dolphins, but many others highlight seeing pilot whales, turtles, and various dolphins, with some even encountering sea turtles on the trip. A few travelers mention crowded conditions or wishing for more commentary, but overall, the feedback is very positive.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Price: About $23 per person — a reasonable price for such an authentic, eco-friendly wildlife tour.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours — enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without fatigue.
• Meeting Point: Los Cristianos Harbor, easily accessible within Tenerife.
• Booking: Usually booked 6 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior.
• Inclusions: Guided boat tour, professional guides, respectful wildlife viewing.
• Excluded: Food and drinks (bring your own if desired), souvenir photos (available for purchase).

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travellers who value ethical wildlife encounters over close-up photo ops. If you’re interested in learning about marine animals in a respectful manner and enjoy scenic boat rides, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxing, informative experience with the chance of seeing dolphins, pilot whales, and even sea turtles.

Those who appreciate the history and beauty of Tenerife’s coast, along with the chance to spot Mount Teide from the water, will also enjoy this outing. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a value-packed activity that combines nature, education, and a touch of maritime adventure.

The Sum Up

This No chase Whale & Dolphin tour is a great way to explore Tenerife’s marine environment responsibly and comfortably. It combines scenic sailing aboard a traditional schooner with the thrill of wildlife watching, all while emphasizing respect for the animals and their habitat. The expert guides and eco-friendly approach make it stand out from more commercialized trips, and the scenic views of Mount Teide and the south coast add to its appeal.

If you’re looking for an activity that balances value, education, and ethical responsibility, this tour offers a meaningful and enjoyable experience. It’s particularly well-suited for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting to enjoy Tenerife’s natural beauty in a respectful, relaxed setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as great fun for all ages, and children will enjoy spotting marine wildlife and learning about it from the crew.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts about 2 hours, providing plenty of time for wildlife viewing and scenic scenery without feeling too long.

What should I bring?
It’s advisable to bring water, snacks, and possibly sun protection. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring your own.

Can I buy photos of my trip?
Yes, souvenir photos are available to purchase if you want a keepsake of your outing.

Are there any restrictions on pets or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, and pets are welcome onboard, making it accessible for travelers with animals.

What if I want a guarantee to see whales or dolphins?
Sightings depend on the animals’ natural behavior; the tour maintains a no chase policy to ensure safety and respect. While many travelers do see wildlife, close encounters aren’t guaranteed.

Is the boat comfortable and safe?
Absolutely. The vessel is described as big, comfortable, and stable, with a large salon for shelter and plenty of space for everyone.

How does the eco-conscious approach affect the experience?
The tour’s collaboration with Sea Shepherd UK reflects a commitment to conservation, meaning your wildlife encounters are conducted with the animals’ well-being as a priority.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The trip is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This responsible, scenic, and educational boat trip offers an authentic slice of Tenerife’s marine life, perfect for those who care about animals and want a genuine, relaxed adventure on the water.