Whale & Dolphin Watching in Tenerife (Puerto Colon) On a Large Catamaran

A close encounter with marine wildlife in Tenerife—without the crowds and with plenty of comfort. This whale and dolphin-watching tour aboard a large catamaran offers a relaxing and entertaining way to explore Tenerife’s oceanic secrets. The tour lasts around three hours, with opportunities to spot whales and dolphins, enjoy an open bar, and even take a swim in a quiet bay.

What we like most? The spaciousness of the large catamaran, which makes social distancing easier and adds a sense of freedom to the trip. Plus, the inclusion of food and drinks makes the experience feel more like a mini cruise than a simple boat ride.

However, some reviews highlight that the trip might not always focus solely on wildlife watching—at times, it feels more like a scenic cruise along the coast. This is worth considering if your primary goal is to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed atmosphere, good company, and the chance to combine wildlife spotting with swimming and scenic views. It’s especially good for those who want a hassle-free booking experience, thanks to online tickets and a professional, friendly crew.

Key Points

• Spacious Catamaran: Large boats with plenty of room for social distancing and comfort.
• Wildlife Opportunities: Regular sightings of whales and dolphins, with expert commentary.
• Inclusive Experience: Food, alcoholic drinks, and water activities included.
• Timing & Convenience: Two daily departures from Puerto Colón with flexible scheduling.
• Water Activities: Free time to swim in a bay after wildlife watch.
• Value for Money: At around $55, it offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and amenities.

What to Expect from the Tenerife Whale & Dolphin Tour

This tour is designed to be a relaxing, enjoyable outing that combines wildlife observation with fun activities aboard a sizeable, stable vessel. From the start, you’ll notice that the large catamaran provides ample space, which is a big plus for those concerned about social distancing or simply wanting a more comfortable experience.

The Itinerary

The tour begins at the Puerto Colón marina, where you’ll meet the crew of Best Excursions Tenerife. They typically run two trips daily, giving you some flexibility to choose a time that suits your schedule. Once onboard, the boat heads out into the Atlantic, where the crew—experienced and knowledgeable—will provide insights into the local marine life and the best spots to catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins.

While some reviews suggest that the focus can sometimes shift from wildlife to scenic cruising, the primary goal remains whale and dolphin spotting. The crew actively looks for these creatures, and sightings are fairly common, especially pilot whales and common dolphins. One reviewer noted seeing a few pilot whales during the trip, which can be quite a thrill.

The Wildlife Watching Experience

Expect to be on the lookout for different species, with the crew providing commentary on the types of whales and dolphins that inhabit the waters around Tenerife. The marine mammals are known to frequent these waters, and there’s a good chance of sightings, particularly if you’re visiting during the right season.

One reviewer mentioned that the trip ends with a brief stop in a small bay, where everyone has the chance to swim and relax. This is often highlighted as a favorite part of the excursion, especially after the excitement of spotting whales and dolphins. The water here is calm and inviting, perfect for a quick dip or just lounging on the boat’s deck.

Food and Drinks

A notable perk of this tour is the included food and alcoholic beverages. You can enjoy a selection of drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—without worrying about sticker shock. Plus, the onboard food is described as delicious, with some reviewers mentioning tapas-style snacks that complement the leisurely vibe of the trip.

This all adds to the value, turning what could be a simple wildlife cruise into a more complete, party-like outing—without the heavy bar tabs that some other tours might rack up.

The Experience of the Large Catamaran

Traveling on a large catamaran means more space and stability compared to smaller boats. This is a significant advantage, especially for those prone to seasickness or who prefer not to be crammed in tight spaces.

The boat is equipped to host up to 70 travelers, but during peak times, it still maintains a comfortable atmosphere. The open deck design provides unobstructed views, and the wide deck space allows everyone to find a spot for sightseeing, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a drink.

The crew is friendly, and as one reviewer pointed out, they are eager to share information about local marine life and even pointed out specific species and behaviors during the trip.

Water Activities and Relaxation

After some time spent searching the waters for whales and dolphins, the boat anchors in a small bay, where passengers are invited to jump in and swim. Many travelers appreciate this chance to cool off and enjoy the calm waters, especially after the excitement of spotting wildlife.

The swim stop is also a great chance to take photos and just unwind, with the crew sometimes serving food during this part of the trip, further emphasizing the laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere.

Practicalities: Booking, Duration, and Cost

At around $55 per person, this tour offers good value for a half-day marine adventure. The price includes everything—food, drinks, and the swim stop—making it a straightforward choice without unexpected expenses.

Booking in advance is advised, especially since the tour is popular and often booked 9 days ahead. The tour lasts approximately three hours, which is enough time to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

Starting from Puerto Colón, a well-connected area, means you’ll have easy access via public transport or a short taxi ride, though private transport isn’t included in the package.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate. The small group size (max 70) helps ensure everyone gets a good view and a comfortable experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While some reviews highlight that the tour can sometimes feel more like a scenic cruise rather than a dedicated wildlife expedition, others appreciated the chance to see pilot whales and dolphins, even if only briefly. One reviewer noted, “We had luck seeing some pilot whales, but it felt more like a coast cruise.”

Interestingly, the food and drinks are consistently praised, with some describing the tapas and beverages as better than expected for a boat tour. This makes the experience feel more like a relaxed social outing, especially with the open bar included.

Several travelers appreciated the crew’s friendliness and knowledge, which added to the overall enjoyment. Yet, a critical note from a review pointed out that the trip’s focus might not always be solely on whale and dolphin observation, so those with wildlife watching as their main goal should be prepared for some variability.

The Sum Up

This whale and dolphin tour aboard a large catamaran in Tenerife offers a balanced mix of wildlife spotting, scenic cruising, and social relaxation. The spacious vessel, friendly crew, and inclusive amenities make it an attractive option for travelers seeking a hassle-free, enjoyable marine adventure.

It’s especially well-suited for those who value comfort, a good atmosphere, and the chance to combine wildlife observation with swimming and casual dining. While the wildlife sightings can sometimes be hit or miss—based on reviews—most participants find the trip worthwhile thanks to the combination of entertainment, scenery, and the open bar.

This tour delivers a lively, relaxed experience that captures the essence of Tenerife’s oceanic charm, making it a memorable part of any island visit.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes whale and dolphin watching, a swim stop in a bay, food, and alcoholic beverages like beer and wine.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about three hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion.

Are drinks free?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are included in the tour price, which is a great perk for those wanting to relax and socialize onboard.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended—most travelers book around 9 days ahead to secure their preferred time slot.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Puerto Colón marina in Playa de la Americas.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the large catamaran offers plenty of space, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups.

Can I expect to see whales and dolphins?
While sightings are fairly common, they are not guaranteed. Some reviews mention spotting pilot whales, but experiences can vary.

What is the boat like?
It’s a large, stable catamaran with ample deck space, ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, or sightseeing.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes food, often described as tasty tapas-style snacks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour is a fantastic way to enjoy Tenerife’s marine life while enjoying comfort and good company. It’s perfect for those who want a laid-back, fun, and scenic experience on the Atlantic.