Dolphin Watching Mini Cruise and Snorkeling from Lanzarote

When it comes to enjoying Lanzarote’s natural beauty, a boat trip focused on dolphin spotting and snorkeling offers a chance to see the island from a fresh perspective. This 1.5-hour mini cruise on the Biosfera Jet promises the chance to witness dolphins, whales, and other marine mammals in their natural habitat while soaking up panoramic views along Lanzarote’s west coast. It’s a quick but engaging excursion suitable for those wanting a taste of the ocean’s wonders, without spending an entire day at sea.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its accessibility — it’s relatively short, affordable, and packed with opportunities for memorable wildlife encounters. However, a major consideration is that sightings are not guaranteed, which is common with wildlife tours, but it’s still worth the attempt if your goal is a fun, scenic outing with the potential for dolphin sightings. This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a family-friendly adventure, nature enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Lanzarote’s marine ecosystem.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed but the chance to see dolphins and whales makes this a popular choice.
• The boat ride offers stunning views of Lanzarote’s coast and Fuerteventura in the distance.
• The tour includes snorkeling in clear Atlantic waters, allowing close-up views of marine life.
• Reviews highlight friendly crew and good organization, making for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• The cost is reasonable at around $48, offering good value for a quick marine adventure.
• Most travelers find it best suited for those with flexible expectations regarding wildlife sightings but wanting a scenic, fun outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Lanzarote Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Tour

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour kicks off at Lanzarote Sea Tours, located on Av. del Varadero in Puerto del Carmen. Meeting here is straightforward, and you’ll need to arrive around noon for the 12:00 pm departure. Since the tour doesn’t include transfers, you’ll want to arrange your own transportation — a detail some reviewers pointed out, especially for late bookings. The meeting point is an active marina area, providing a lively backdrop and easy access.

The Boat and Crew

The trip is aboard the Biosfera Jet, a fast boat designed for both speed and stability, capable of taking you swiftly along the coast. Reviewers mention the boat being clean and well-maintained, which adds to the comfort of the experience. The crew, described as friendly and knowledgeable, conducts a brief safety briefing before setting sail, making sure everyone is prepared.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Sailing Along Lanzarote’s West Coast

Once underway, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Lanzarote’s rugged coastline, famous for its volcanic formations and dramatic cliffs. This stretch of coast is especially scenic, offering plenty of opportunities for photo stops and sightseeing. The boat skims past notable points, giving you a taste of the island’s unique landscape.

Wildlife Watching for Dolphins and Whales

The main highlight is the search for dolphins, whales, and other marine mammals. The crew uses binoculars and their expertise to spot these elusive creatures. It’s a true wildlife-watching experience, though some reviews mention the unpredictability of sightings—“Pas vu un dauphin 1 chance sur 2” (saw a dolphin only once or twice), reflecting the natural variability of marine life encounters.

Narrated Insights

The crew provides detailed commentary about the cetaceans, their behaviors, and the history of the region. This adds educational value, making the trip informative for those interested in marine biology. Several reviews praise the staff for their friendliness and ability to keep guests engaged, even when sightings are elusive.

Snorkeling in the Atlantic

Midway or towards the end of the trip, you’ll have the chance to swim in the clear waters. Reviewers describe the snorkeling as “great fun” with crystal-clear conditions, perfect for spotting marine life up close. Some mention that snorkeling is brief—“10 minutes”—which means you’ll want to make the most of it while you’re in the water.

Lobos Island Stop

A key part of the tour is landing on Los Lobos, a tiny, picturesque island just off Lanzarote. Travelers describe Lobos as “gorgeous,” with beautiful beaches and quaint villages. The time spent here is appreciated, though some reviewers wish it were longer—“very short” was a common sentiment. The landing provides a nice break from the boat, giving you time to explore or relax.

The Experience and What to Expect

The boat ride itself is generally well-rated for comfort and safety, with most travelers noting the smooth ride despite occasional rough seas. The crew’s friendliness and informative commentary are often highlighted, making the experience both fun and educational.

While sightings of dolphins aren’t guaranteed, the hopeful anticipation adds to the excitement. Reviewers also mention that the lunch provided onboard (typical of Canary cuisine) is delicious and well-organized, adding value to the trip especially for those who want a complete experience without bringing extra snacks.

The Value of the Tour

At around $48.71 per person, this tour provides a cost-effective way to enjoy Lanzarote’s marine life and coastlines. Considering the duration (about 1 hour 30 minutes) and the inclusions like snorkeling and scenic views, it’s a good option for travelers on a budget or those short on time.

Feedback from Travelers

Reviews are quite mixed, reflecting the natural unpredictability of wildlife tours. Positive comments emphasize friendly staff (“excellent service”, “beautiful views”, “delicious lunch”). For example, “Me and my partner loved it” or “Despite rough seas, the trip was excellent” showcase the generally favorable experience.

On the downside, some travelers express disappointment over missed dolphin sightings — “Pas vu un Dauphin 1 chance sur 2” — and wish for longer snorkeling sessions or more structured activities. Others noted that transportation to the port was a challenge due to late booking, so planning ahead can help.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for:

• Wildlife enthusiasts eager to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
• Families with children who enjoy boat rides and marine exploration.
• Travelers seeking short, scenic excursions that combine wildlife watching and snorkeling.
• Those who appreciate authentic, unstructured wildlife encounters, knowing sightings can’t be guaranteed but the trip offers stunning coastal views regardless.

It’s less ideal for travelers who prioritize guaranteed wildlife sightings or longer snorkeling sessions, as the trip is relatively short and sightings are unpredictable.

The Sum Up

This Lanzarote dolphin watching and snorkeling mini cruise offers a compact and scenic escape into the Atlantic’s waters. It’s a well-organized, enjoyable trip with friendly crew and spectacular views of Lanzarote’s coastline and Fuerteventura in the distance. While dolphin sightings are not assured, the potential for marine mammal encounters adds an element of anticipation that many travelers find exciting. The inclusion of snorkeling provides a nice aquatic complement to the voyage, giving you a chance to see marine life up close in calm, clear waters.

The value for money is solid, especially considering the overall experience, the scenic highlights, and the opportunity to explore Los Lobos—a tiny island with big appeal. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a quick marine adventure with a relaxed vibe.

If you’re after a scenic, reasonably priced boat trip that balances wildlife watching with stunning coastlines and snorkeling, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just keep expectations flexible regarding dolphin sightings and be prepared for some short stops; the experience is all about the views, the sea breeze, and the possibility of a special encounter.

FAQs

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the marina in Puerto del Carmen.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Since the tour involves snorkeling, packing a change of clothes is also advisable.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat ride is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in total.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings are not guaranteed, as marine mammals are wild animals, but the crew does their best to spot them during the trip.

Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Absolutely, snorkeling is an option, but you can also enjoy the scenic views and wildlife watching from the boat.

What is Los Lobos like?
It’s a small, pristine island with beautiful beaches and a quaint village atmosphere—great for a quick exploration or relaxing break.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if that happens.

Overall, this Lanzarote dolphin watching and snorkeling tour combines scenic coastlines, the thrill of wildlife spotting, and a chance to swim in stunning waters. It’s a relaxing yet adventurous way to add a splash of marine life experience to your Lanzarote trip—perfect for those who love the ocean and are open to a bit of oceanic unpredictability.