Royal Delfin – 4’5H Dolphin & Whale Watching – Los Gigantes Masca – Lunch & Swim

Tenerife Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour: A Closer Look

If you’re visiting Tenerife, the Royal Delfin tour offers a solid chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat along the southwest coast. For about $69.39 per person, you’ll spend roughly four and a half hours on a purpose-built catamaran that features underwater glass viewing windows, giving you close-up views of these magnificent creatures. The tour departs from Puerto Colón, heading along scenic coastlines, with a mix of wildlife sightings, swimming stops, and onboard refreshments.

Two things stand out immediately about this experience: first, the opportunity to observe marine life in an environment that’s both fun and educational, and second, the delicious, all-inclusive onboard lunch. It’s a great way to combine adventure with relaxing comfort, especially if you enjoy being on a boat with friendly guides and fellow travelers.

However, there’s a note of caution for those sensitive to seasickness or expecting to see dolphins on every trip. Wildlife sightings are natural and unpredictable, so while the experience is enjoyable, it isn’t a guarantee that you’ll see dolphins or whales every time. This tour is best suited for travelers who love boats, scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere, and who are okay with a bit of luck involved in wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Wildlife in their natural environment: The southwest coast of Tenerife offers year-round chances to spot whales and dolphins.
• Purpose-built catamaran: Features underwater glass viewing windows for a unique perspective.
• All-inclusive onboard lunch: Includes drinks, snacks, and a courtesy meal, making it a good value.
• Swim in Masca Bay: A refreshing stop with warm waters, perfect for taking a break from the sea.
• Friendly crew and good organization: Most reviews praise the staff’s helpfulness and the smooth running of the trip.
• Potential for variable sightings: Wildlife encounters depend on the day, and some travelers report fewer animals than hoped.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Departure and Itinerary

The tour kicks off at 2:00 pm from the designated meeting point at Av. de Colón, 11, Playa de la Américas. This late afternoon start allows you to enjoy the coast in the softer light of the afternoon, making for less crowded decks and more comfortable weather in the warmer months. The boat, Royal Delfin, is a purpose-built vessel designed to optimize wildlife viewing, with a large underwater viewing deck boasting glass windows. As you set sail, you’ll leave behind the bustling beach scene of Costa Adeje and glide into calmer waters where marine life is more active.

Scenery and Wildlife

The route along the coast provides stunning views of Los Gigantes cliffs, towering rock formations that are a highlight of the Canary Islands. These giant cliffs are awe-inspiring and provide a dramatic backdrop as you cruise past. The crew keeps a lookout for whales, bottlenose dolphins, and even sea turtles, with many reviews praising their efforts. Some travelers, like Melanie, loved the experience of seeing dolphins from the glass-bottom sections, which really adds a sense of intimacy with the creatures.

It’s worth noting that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable. Several reviewers mention seeing multiple whales and dolphins, while others, like Michael, note fewer animals than hoped. As wildlife is unpredictable, patience is key, and a sense of adventure makes the trip more enjoyable even if nature doesn’t cooperate perfectly.

The Swimming Stop at Masca Bay

One of the tour’s real highlights is the stop at Masca Bay, a tranquil spot with warm, inviting waters. This pause is perfect for a swim or snorkel, giving you a chance to cool off after an hour or more at sea. The reviews highlight how beautiful and spectacular the bay is, with some mentioning that the bathing spot is well-chosen and offers clear water with decent visibility.

Lunch and Refreshments

The onboard lunch is described by many as tasty and served within the first hour of the trip. Expect a small sandwich, along with soft drinks, sangria, and beer — all part of the included package. Several reviews, including Immy_M’s, call the food “tasty” and appreciate the bottomless drinks. It’s a practical addition, making the experience feel more like a leisurely cruise rather than just a wildlife hunt.

Crew and Atmosphere

The crew consistently receives praise for their friendliness and multilingual skills. Several travelers remark how well-organized and helpful the staff was, making the trip smooth and enjoyable. The vibe onboard is often described as relaxed and friendly, with some reviews mentioning how they got to chat with other travelers and enjoyed the good music and casual atmosphere.

The Overall Experience

Most guests leave feeling that they’ve had a good value for their money, especially considering the lot of wildlife sightings and the refreshing swim. Some, like Laura, say it’s “worth the money”, while others note that it’s a bit crowded, so if you prefer a more intimate experience, this might not be your first choice. Still, the large group size (up to 200 travelers) keeps the energy lively and inclusive.

Value and Practical Considerations

At around $69.39, this tour offers a well-rounded experience: wildlife viewing, swimming, and good food, all in one package. Comparing it to other options in Tenerife, many reviewers say it provides great value, especially given the all-inclusive drinks and family-friendly atmosphere.

However, some travelers highlight the importance of weather conditions — the trip depends heavily on good weather and wildlife activity. Cancellation due to poor weather results in a full refund or a chance to reschedule, which adds a layer of reassurance.

Who Should Book This?

This tour is ideal if you’re keen to see whales and dolphins in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy boat trips and scenic coastlines. If you’re someone who appreciates good organization, tasty onboard food, and the thrill of wildlife watching, you’ll find this experience rewarding. Keep in mind, if animals are scarce, the journey still offers beautiful vistas and a pleasant day at sea.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For a moderate price, this half-day adventure delivers a blend of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation. You’ll love the spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes, the chance to see marine mammals, and the comfortable boat equipped with underwater viewing windows. The onboard lunch and drinks add value, making it feel like a full, satisfying experience rather than just a quick cruise.

This tour works best for nature lovers and families who enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with opportunities for swimming and photos. It’s also a good pick if you’re not overly concerned with spotting animals — the journey itself and the scenic coastlines are worth the outing.

If you’re after a well-organized trip with friendly guides, good food, and decent chances of seeing whales and dolphins, this tour is a reliable choice. Just remember, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so a sense of adventure and patience are your best companions here.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, departing at 2:00 pm and returning to the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes whale and dolphin watching, a swimming stop in Masca Bay, a courtesy lunch, soft drinks, beer, sangria, snacks, and restroom facilities onboard.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather turns poor and the trip is canceled, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

What should I bring?
While not explicitly listed, it’s wise to bring sunscreen, a towel, possibly a waterproof camera, and swimwear for the bay stop. The boat provides onboard amenities like drinks and snacks.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, making it suitable for families. The boat’s relaxed environment accommodates all ages.

Will I see whales and dolphins on every trip?
Not necessarily. Wild animals are unpredictable, and sightings depend on the day’s conditions. Several reviews mention seeing multiple whales and dolphins, but some notes indicate fewer animals or distant sightings.

Is this a good value for money?
Given the all-inclusive drinks, lunch, and scenic experience, many reviewers feel it’s worth the price. The combination of wildlife, scenery, and comfort offers a balanced and enjoyable outing.

This dolphin and whale watching tour in Tenerife offers a delightful mix of marine life, scenic vistas, and relaxed fun. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast or simply seeking a beautiful boat ride, it provides a memorable day on the water — just keep your camera ready and your patience in check.