Royal Dolphin Whale watching excursion

Exploring the Royal Dolphin Whale Watching Excursion in Tenerife

If you’re dreaming of spotting dolphins and whales while soaking up the sun on Tenerife’s southern coast, the Royal Dolphin Whale Watching Excursion offers an engaging way to see marine life in its natural habitat. Priced at around $34.69 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, this trip aims to combine wildlife spotting with comfort and convenience. Guided by professional crew, you’ll cruise along the coast from Puerto Colon, with chances to see playful dolphins, majestic whales, and other sea creatures through large windows and underwater viewing panels.

Two aspects particularly stand out: the special design of the boat for optimal wildlife viewing and the easy transfer arrangements from central meeting points, making logistics smooth for travelers. Plus, opting for the longer 3-hour tour brings the bonus of lunch, drinks, and an aperitif, turning a simple cruise into a more leisurely, social experience.

One thing to consider is that overcrowding on the boat has been noted, which might make it tricky to get the perfect photo or comfortable vantage point. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy guided outdoor experiences, are flexible with group sizes, and are interested in wildlife but don’t mind a sometimes crowded deck. If you’re keen on a reasonably priced, straightforward dolphin and whale watching outing with some added amenities, this experience could be worth your time.

Key Points

• Wildlife Visibility: The boat’s underwater windows and live streams from the deck increase your chances of spotting dolphins and whales.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew members help identify animals and enhance your understanding of marine life.
• Convenience: Central pickup isn’t included, but the meeting point is accessible, and logistics are straightforward.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a quick 2-hour trip or a more relaxed 3-hour experience with lunch and drinks.
• Crowd Factor: Be aware that the boat can be crowded, which might impact your photo opportunities.
• Price and Value: The tour offers good value, especially when considering the included amenities and wildlife sightings.

Detailed Review of the Royal Dolphin Whale Watching Excursion

Setting Out on Tenerife’s Coast

The Royal Dolphin Whale Watching tour typically departs from the lively marina at Puerto Colon, an area well-known for its busy boats and vibrant atmosphere. The boat itself is a catamaran designed for viewing, which means it’s equipped with large windows and underwater panels. This design is a key feature that we loved, as it provides unique perspectives of marine life without diving in, making the experience accessible for all ages and levels of comfort.

The duration varies: the basic tour lasts around 2 hours, which is enough time to see dolphins and possibly whales, and the extended 3-hour version adds the bonus of lunch, drinks, and an aperitif. The shorter trip is ideal if you’re tight on time or traveling with kids who may tire quickly, while the longer version is perfect for those wanting a more leisurely experience.

Wildlife Watching in Action

One of the most exciting parts of this cruise is the possibility of spotting dolphins and whales in the wild. Several reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable and actively help with spotting and identifying animals, which adds educational value to the experience. As Tedi Gancheva noted, “The tour delivers the promises, we saw both dolphins and whales from the deck and from the glass bottom.” This suggests that the underwater windows really do enhance the chances of seeing marine creatures, especially if the weather and sea conditions cooperate.

On the deck, travelers can also view live-streams of underwater footage, which is a nice touch for those who want an up-close look without leaning over the rail. Still, crowding can sometimes be an issue, making it harder to get that perfect shot or to find a quiet spot to admire the view. As one reviewer mentioned, “It was a bit overcrowded on board and hard to get a good spot to watch and take photos,” highlighting a potential downside.

The Experience Beyond Wildlife

The 3-hour tour stands out for its added amenities. You’ll be treated to local tapas, drinks, and a refreshing aperitif—perfect for relaxing and socializing once wildlife sightings slow down. The food and drinks are a welcome bonus, especially considering the affordable price point. The meals are described as delicious in some reviews, adding unexpected value to the experience.

If you’re prone to seasickness, be prepared—the sea can be choppy, and a reviewer noted, “If you’re prone to seasickness, remember to take your medication,” as the mar was quite lively that day. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes is advisable, especially since you’ll be outside most of the trip.

Customer Feedback—A Balanced View

Looking through reviews, we see a mixed but generally positive picture. While some travelers like Viajero_p called it “Perfecto,” mentioning good organization and wildlife sightings, others, like Claire I, experienced frustrating issues like booking mix-ups. Such problems seem to be occasional but worth noting.

In terms of value, many find the trip worth the price, especially given the chance to see dolphins and whales in the wild, combined with the guide’s insights. The longer tour with food offers a good bang for your buck, making it a suitable choice for those wanting a more complete experience.

Practical Aspects and Logistics

The meeting point is at the Royal Delfin Catamaran on Calle Colon, which is close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. The activity doesn’t include pick-up, so you’ll need to organize your own transport. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, helping maintain a more personal atmosphere, although some reviews suggest that crowding can still occur when the boat is full.

The booking window is typically about 15 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak season. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the trip, offering some peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This whale and dolphin watching trip in Tenerife suits travelers who appreciate wildlife in its natural setting and are comfortable with a group outdoor experience. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an affordable adventure that combines nature, education, and a touch of leisure. If you’re fond of guided boat trips and want the convenience of underwater views and onboard commentary, this tour will serve you well.

However, if crowds or booking mishaps give you pause, or if you prefer more exclusive, less crowded excursions, you might want to explore other options or be prepared for a lively, sometimes congested boat.

The Sum Up

The Royal Dolphin Whale Watching Excursion offers an engaging, affordable way to see Tenerife’s marine life from a boat designed for optimal viewing. Its highlights include underwater windows, knowledgeable guides, and optional lunch, making it a well-rounded experience for those interested in wildlife and marine environments.

While crowding can be a concern, the opportunity to see dolphins and whales up close, combined with the relaxed boat atmosphere, makes it a good choice for travelers seeking an active, educational outing. The tour’s value for money is hard to beat, especially when considering the inclusion of food and drinks on the longer trip.

This excursion is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone looking for a fun, affordable marine adventure. Just be sure to book in advance, arrive prepared, and keep your expectations flexible—marine wildlife is unpredictable, after all, but that’s part of the charm.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You will need to make your way to the meeting point at Calle Colon in Puerto Colon.

How long is the tour?
The basic tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with an option to extend to 3 hours if you choose the longer version with lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Be prepared for the possibility of seasickness, especially in choppy waters.

Can I expect to see dolphins and whales?
While sightings depend on weather, sea conditions, and luck, guides are experienced at helping spot wildlife, and many reviews confirm successful sightings of dolphins and whales.

Is there food and drinks available?
Yes, the longer 3-hour tour includes lunch, drinks, and an aperitif. The food has been described as delicious.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. Last-minute cancellations are not refunded.

How crowded does the boat get?
The boat is limited to 20 travelers, but some reviews mention overcrowding, which may impact how easily you can take photos or find a comfortable spot.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families. However, keep in mind the duration and sea conditions when planning for young children.

In all, this tour offers a solid value and a chance to connect with Tenerife’s vibrant marine life. With a bit of patience and a love for the outdoors, you’ll likely remember this trip as a highlight of your stay.