If you’re visiting Tenerife and craving a close encounter with the island’s marine life, this Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran tour offers a memorable, well-organized experience. For around $68, you get approximately 3 hours exploring the waters off Costa Adeje, with the chance to see pilot whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles in their natural environment. The trip includes hotel pickup (in the south), a buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks, all aboard a modern, stable catamaran with plenty of space to relax and take photos.
Two things we really like about this tour: first, the small-group size (maximum 24 travelers) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the crew’s knowledgeable, friendly attitude makes a big difference. Second, the diversity of sights—not only whales and dolphins but also stunning coastlines, mountain views, and opportunities to swim or snorkel—adds extra layers of value.
A possible consideration is the weather—like all ocean excursions, rough seas can sometimes limit wildlife sightings or make the ride less comfortable. However, most reviews note that the crew does a great job of relocating to the best spots and ensuring everyone’s safety.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, appreciate good value, and prefer a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, this trip offers a gentle, engaging way to experience Tenerife’s marine wonders in a short time.
Key Points
- Wildlife encounters: Chance to see whales, dolphins, and turtles in their natural habitat.
- Small-group experience: Limited to 24 travelers for a more personal, attentive vibe.
- All-inclusive catering: Drinks and snacks served throughout, plus a buffet lunch with tapas.
- Expert guidance: Crew knowledge helps maximize wildlife sightings and understanding.
- Convenient pickup: Hotel transfer available in the south of Tenerife, making logistics easier.
- Value for money: Competitive pricing with a broad array of sights and comforts.
The Experience in Detail
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Setting Out: From Land to Sea
Starting from Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, the tour begins with a smooth pickup from your hotel, if you’re staying in the south of Tenerife. This convenience means you won’t have to fuss about finding the meeting point—just relax and get ready for a day on the water. The catamaran itself is a purpose-built vessel, designed for comfort and safety, with a sturdy, stable platform that minimizes seasickness and offers excellent views from all angles.
Once aboard, you’ll notice the spacious decks, including a large sundeck at the prow and a cozy flybridge with ample seating, creating perfect spots for sunbathing, photographing, or simply soaking up the scenery. The onboard restroom adds a layer of comfort, especially important for a three-hour trip.
Wildlife Watching: The Main Event
The highlight—seeing whales and dolphins in their natural environment—is what most travelers are after. The crew, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, guide you toward the animals, with many reviews describing sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles.
One reviewer notes, “We saw lots of whales. Some were very close,” and another mentions, “We were lucky enough to see pilot whales and the staff were very informative about them.” Such encounters aren’t guaranteed, but most trips report good sightings thanks to the crew’s experience in tracking cetaceans.
The crew’s expertise truly enhances the experience. They’ll point out the best spots, explain the behaviors of the animals, and make sure everyone gets a good look. This is no rushed affair; it’s a relaxed, patient process that encourages plenty of photos and questions.
Food and Drinks: A Stress-Free Feast
What sets this trip apart from a simple wildlife cruise is the inclusive buffet and free-flowing drinks. For most of the tour, you’ll be served tapas-style snacks, including cheese, tortillas, quiche, bread, crisps, and a meat selection. The reviews frequently mention the delicious quality of the food, which arrives in generous portions.
Drinks are available throughout the cruise—water, soft drinks, beer, and even champagne—making the experience feel more upscale and relaxing. Several reviews highlight how this all contributes to a laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere.
The Coastal Cruise and Swimming Opportunities
After wildlife sightings, the boat glides along the south coast of Tenerife, offering stunning views of the mountains, beaches, and coastal towns. The captain will often stop in a good snorkeling spot, giving passengers a chance to swim or snorkel in warm, clear waters. All snorkeling equipment is provided, and the crew is attentive to safety.
Travelers have enjoyed this part, with some saying, “We cruised back to the coast near a small beach with amazing views and stopped for swimming, snorkeling, and a small buffet.” The opportunity to cool off in the ocean adds a fun, active element to the trip.
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Final Stretch: Relaxation and Reflection
As the trip winds down, you’ll enjoy a gentle sail close to the coast, with stunning mountain vistas and beach panoramas. This calm, scenic part of the journey provides plenty of chances to soak in the environment, snap last-minute photos, or just relax.
Practicalities and Logistics
The duration (about 3 hours) is perfect for travelers who want a quick yet fulfilling experience. The small group allows for more intimate interactions, and life vests are available for all passengers. The boat’s stability makes it suitable for most, though those prone to seasickness should consider taking precautions.
Pick-up is offered in the south of Tenerife, but if you’re outside this area, you can easily make your way to the departure point in Puerto Colon. The tour operates with a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, so you can plan with confidence.
Authentic Perspectives from Travelers
The reviews consistently highlight the professional, friendly crew and the quality of the wildlife sightings. One traveler exclaimed, “It was even better than expected,” sharing how the crew’s attention and professionalism made the experience special. Many mention seeing pilot whales and dolphins up close, often describing the sightings as “spectacular” or “magical”.
The food and drinks are another favorite aspect—plenty of tapas and beverages contribute to a festive yet relaxed mood. Several comments mention how the buffet exceeded expectations, with many calling it delicious and well presented.
A common thread is the personalized feel: “It felt like a family trip,” or “The crew made sure everyone had a good view,” which is rare on larger, more commercialized excursions.
A Few Caveats
Weather can always affect marine wildlife trips—rough seas might limit sightings, but the crew’s experience means they usually adapt quickly. Also, the catamaran’s limited accessibility for wheelchair users is a consideration for those with mobility issues. Seasickness could be an issue for particularly sensitive travelers, so packing ginger tablets or Dramamine might be wise.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This trip is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, friendly environment and are eager to see whales and dolphins in the wild. It’s especially appealing if you value good food, drinks, and a personalized experience. The small group size makes it less overwhelming than larger tours, and the inclusive nature simplifies planning.
If your priority is wildlife viewing with a scenic coastal backdrop and comfortable onboard amenities, this tour hits the mark. It’s a smart choice for those who appreciate value for money and don’t mind a shorter, 3-hour outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the tour depart from?
It begins at Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, with optional hotel pickup in the south of Tenerife. If you’re outside the pickup zone, you can make your way directly to the departure point.
What kind of boat is used?
The tour takes place on a purpose-built catamaran designed for passenger comfort and safety, providing spectacular views from multiple vantage points.
Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the catamaran is not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues should plan accordingly.
Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, the vessel is equipped with a restroom, which adds convenience during the trip.
Are there shaded areas?
Yes, the sundeck and the flybridge offer shaded or partially shaded seating options, so you can comfortably enjoy the ride regardless of the sun.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided if you want to explore the water.
Is food and drink included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with tapas, and free-flowing drinks including water, soft drinks, beer, and champagne are part of the package.
Can I swim or snorkel?
Absolutely. The captain will take you to the best spots for swimming and snorkeling, with all equipment supplied.
What wildlife might I see?
Most likely, you’ll see pilot whales, dolphins, and possibly sea turtles in their natural habitat.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll receive a full refund or can reschedule.
Final Thoughts
This Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment. The small-group setting, expert crew, and inclusive amenities elevate a simple wildlife cruise into a memorable day on the water. It combines stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and relaxed hospitality into one package—hard to beat for value and authenticity.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a family seeking adventure, or someone wanting a stress-free way to enjoy Tenerife’s coast, this experience fits the bill. Its balanced mix of wildlife, comfort, and scenic beauty makes it a smart choice for anyone eager to see the island from the ocean. Just remember, a good attitude and a camera are all you need to make the most of it.