Royal Delfin 3H Dolphin & Whale Watching! Swimming & Lunch!

Planning a trip to Tenerife and eager to witness its incredible marine life? The Royal Delfin 3-hour dolphin and whale watching tour offers a lively, family-friendly experience that combines wildlife spotting, onboard dining, and the chance to swim in warm waters. This tour has gathered a solid 4.0-star rating from over 30 reviews, reflecting its popularity among visitors looking for a fun and memorable excursion on the island’s southwest coast.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this trip is the purpose-built catamaran equipped with underwater glass viewing windows—a real treat for those who want to see marine creatures from beneath the surface without getting wet. However, a potential consideration is that the boat can get quite crowded during peak times, which might affect your ability to get a clear view during wildlife sightings. This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of wildlife, scenic views, and a relaxed, social vibe—perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting an all-in-one adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat; sightings are possible year-round.
• Underwater Views: Purpose-built catamaran with panoramic underwater windows for close-up views of marine life.
• Inclusive Experience: Lunch, drinks, and swimming stop included, offering good value.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: Max 200 travelers, which can mean busy moments but also a lively environment.
• Location & Duration: Departing from Puerto Colón, approx. 3 hours long—great for a half-day adventure.
• Authentic Interaction: Knowledgeable guides and reviews highlight friendly staff and informative narration.

Exploring the Tour Itself

The Royal Delfin tour begins at Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, with a start time of 10:30 am. Whether you’re staying in Playa de las Américas or nearby, the meeting point is accessible, especially since the boat is near public transportation. Once aboard this purpose-built catamaran, you’ll quickly notice the expansive design: a roomy deck for sunbathing or spotting wildlife, and a glass-covered underwater viewing deck that offers an immersive look beneath the waves.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The primary aim of this trip is marine wildlife observation. The boat cruises along Tenerife’s crowded coast, from Playa de las Américas to the striking Los Gigantes cliffs, providing plenty of scenic vistas along the way. These cliffs are a highlight for many, offering dramatic backdrops to your marine adventure.

The first major feature is the chance to spot whales and dolphins. According to reviews, sightings are quite common, with Dawn H mentioning “I never expected to see so many dolphins at one time,” and Fiona R noting the guide’s insightful commentary throughout. Observing these creatures in their natural environment is what makes this tour stand out—something that’s often more rewarding than generic zoo-like encounters.

Underwater Viewing & Wildlife Encounters

The underwater glass viewing windows are central to the experience. These sixteen panoramic panes allow you to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life from beneath the boat without getting wet. Reviewers shared that they could see dolphins swimming close by, and the sea was described as “blue and clear enough to see them through the water,” which adds a magical element to the trip.

Swimming Stop in Diego Hernandez Bay

Midway through the tour, the boat anchors at Diego Hernandez Bay. Here, passengers are invited to swim in the warm waters—a perfect chance to cool off after an active morning. Dawn H and Denisa A both appreciated this stop, noting that snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, making it safe and enjoyable for kids and adults alike.

Lunch & Drinks

A major highlight, according to reviews, is the lunch served onboard. The complimentary meal is described as “courtesy,” and the menu includes delicious options along with drinks like beer, sangria, soda, water, and juice. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the food and friendly service, with Denisa A praising the “muy rica” food and the crew’s kindness.

Additional Considerations

While most guests report a positive experience, some mention the crowded conditions—especially on the main deck—which can make it tricky to get a good view during wildlife sightings. Matthew C described the boat as overfull, leading to congestion and difficulty accessing the upper deck once the boat was underway. If you’re sensitive to crowds or prioritizing unobstructed views, arriving early or choosing a less busy time might help.

The Value Proposition

At around $59.34 per person, this tour offers a balanced combination of wildlife, scenery, and onboard amenities. Considering the included lunch, drinks, swimming stop, and the opportunity to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, it’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy a half-day in Tenerife. The underwater viewing windows particularly add value, providing a perspective you won’t easily get elsewhere.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One reviewer, Dawn H, highlighted her surprise at the quantity of dolphins she saw, emphasizing the visual thrill of seeing them leaping and swimming up close. She also appreciated the lunch and drinks, making the trip feel well-rounded. Conversely, others like Carlos A mentioned the distance of whale sightings, implying that wildlife encounters can vary day-to-day, which is natural for outdoor wildlife trips.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if plans change.
• Timing: Departure at 10:30 am suits those who want a relaxed start and to experience daylight cruising.
• Group Size: Up to 200 travelers, which fosters a lively atmosphere but can get busy.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, and waterproof camera or phone to capture the moments. Snorkeling gear is available for the swim stop.
• Considerations: If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s advisable to take precautions, though the waters in Diego Hernandez Bay are generally calm.
• Accessibility: Service animals are permitted, and the tour is suitable for most travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is particularly suited to families looking for a safe, engaging outing, as well as couples and friends eager to share a wildlife adventure. Those interested in marine biology or simply wanting to enjoy the scenic coast with some active fun (swimming, sunbathing) will find it very satisfying. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew—reviews praise the staff’s enthusiasm and helpfulness.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Delfin 3-hour tour strikes a good balance between entertainment, education, and relaxation. Its highlight—close-up views of dolphins and whales through underwater windows—delivers an experience that feels both authentic and exciting. The onboard lunch and swimming stop contribute significantly to its value, making it a well-rounded choice for those wanting a memorable half-day adventure in Tenerife.

While the crowds might pose a challenge for some, the chance to witness marine life in its natural setting, along with the friendly service and scenic backdrop, makes this tour worth considering. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a fun, family-friendly outing without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 10:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a relaxed morning before heading out.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it ideal for a half-day activity without feeling rushed.

Are there opportunities to see whales and dolphins?
Yes, sightings are common throughout the year, and the guides are experienced in spotting these creatures in their natural environment.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, underwater viewing windows, lunch, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages like beer and sangria, a swimming stop, and restroom facilities.

Can I buy snacks onboard?
Snacks are not included but are available for an extra charge, so you can choose to purchase something if desired.

Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely. The tour’s swimming stop and onboard amenities make it family-friendly, and reviewers mention children enjoying the experience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera or phone, and perhaps a towel or change of clothes for after swimming.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a genuine opportunity to see Tenerife’s incredible marine life with the added perks of a scenic coastal cruise, delicious onboard food, and a chance to cool off in warm waters. It’s well-suited for travelers seeking a fun, engaging, and authentic experience that balances wildlife, comfort, and scenic beauty. With attentive guides and a lively atmosphere, the Royal Delfin 3-hour trip promises a memorable slice of Tenerife’s oceanic charm.