Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour

If you’re visiting Tenerife and crave an experience that combines wildlife sightings with a splash of science, the Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour from BIOSEAN could be just what you’re looking for. This 2.5-hour adventure gets you out on the water with a marine biologist guide, giving you the chance to spot whales and dolphins while learning about their habitats, behavior, and conservation efforts. What’s truly impressive is that this tour keeps the group intimate — capped at just 10 travelers — which means plenty of opportunity for personalized interaction and asking questions.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the educational component: using tools like GPS, hydrophone, and sound recorder helps you understand marine biology beyond just seeing animals swim by. Plus, the tour includes conservation efforts such as ocean clean-up nets, making it a meaningful choice for environmentally conscious travelers. However, if you’re hoping for a long, relaxed cruise or are traveling with very young children, this tour’s shorter duration and focus on older kids might be worth considering.

This tour seems especially suited for curious travelers, families with older children, and anyone eager to combine wildlife viewing with learning. It’s a smart pick for those who value quality guides, authentic experiences, and a small group setting over large, impersonal tours.

• Educational Focus: Learn marine biology and conservation with a knowledgeable marine biologist.
• Small Group Size: Max 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and less crowding.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see whales, dolphins, and possibly other marine creatures.
• Interactive Experience: Use tools like hydrophone and GPS to understand marine life.
• Beautiful Scenery: Pass by Tenerife’s southernmost point, Rasca lighthouse, and volcanic formations.
• Value for Money: At $87.08, the tour offers a well-rounded, educational wildlife experience.

The Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour offers a genuinely immersive experience. It’s not just about spotting whales—although that’s a core part—but about understanding and appreciating these creatures through the eyes of experts. The guides, praised for their knowledge and respect for the animals, bring a level of trust and authenticity that’s rare in this kind of tour.

The tour kicks off at the Marina del Sur, Pantalán 4, in Las Galletas. From there, your boat heads south, passing the renowned Rasca lighthouse and the striking volcanic terrain of the Malpaís de Rasca. This area, protected for its geological significance, offers great scenery and a chance to see nature’s raw power. On a clear day, you’ll also get views of Mt. Teide, which adds a dramatic touch to the backdrop — a photo opportunity in itself.

The boat itself is a comfortable, small vessel with a maximum of 10 travelers, which creates an intimate setting for wildlife watching. Expect a relaxed cruise, with bottled water provided, but note that snacks and onboard restrooms are not included, so plan accordingly.

The journey is structured but flexible, tailored to the wildlife’s mood and weather conditions. The key highlight is passing the southernmost point of Tenerife, an area known for its marine biodiversity. Here, the marine biologist guides you through spotting cetaceans, explaining their habits, and giving you the tools to document your sightings.

A major part of the experience involves hands-on use of science tools. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated being able to use a hydrophone to listen to underwater sounds or a GPS to understand the animals’ locations. One reviewer remarked, “Raoul was full of knowledge and we saw everything promised,” emphasizing the engaging nature of the guides.

Throughout the trip, the marine biologist also discusses ongoing conservation efforts. For example, the inclusion of a clean-up net highlights the importance of protecting the ocean, making the experience not just fun but meaningful. You may even see other marine creatures like loggerhead turtles, which some guests have described as a bonus.

From the reviews, it’s clear that wildlife sightings are a major highlight. Many travelers have reported seeing pilot whales, Atlantic dolphins, and even sightings of humpback whales. One guest noted, “A pod of pilot whales, racing and leaping right in front of the boat,” illustrating how close and lively these encounters can be.

Listening to whales through the hydrophone is a unique feature, often described as “like being in a National Geographic program”. Guests have also appreciated the respectful approach of the guides, who keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. This respect for wildlife is a recurring theme, with travelers valuing the guides’ considerate attitude and expert knowledge.

At $87.08 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the expert guidance, small group atmosphere, and educational components. The fact that it lasts just under three hours makes it a manageable outing, even for those with limited time or energy.

Booking generally opens about 20 days in advance, hinting at its popularity. The tour includes all fees and taxes and provides bottled water, but remember to bring your own snacks if you’re hungry or need a quick energy boost. Also, note that there’s no restroom onboard, so plan accordingly.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy, offering full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, adds a layer of peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather conditions like wind or rain, which could affect marine visibility.

This experience is ideal for adventurous families with older children, marine enthusiasts, and travelers seeking more than just a sightseeing cruise. If you love learning about marine life, enjoy small-group environments, and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Tenerife trip.

It’s also perfect if you’re environmentally conscious and wish to support conservation efforts while having a memorable wildlife encounter. However, if you’re looking for a longer, more leisurely cruise or traveling with very young children who might find the boat ride less comfortable, you might want to consider other options.

The Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife observation, education, and scenic beauty. With expert guides, a small group size, and an emphasis on conservation, it stands out as an authentic and meaningful way to experience Tenerife’s marine environment. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to learn about marine mammals while enjoying close-up sightings and stunning views.

If your travel style involves engaging with nature in a respectful, educational way, this tour delivers plenty of value for its reasonable price. It’s a thoughtful choice for curious travelers eager to deepen their understanding of marine life, especially if you’re passionate about conservation and authentic experiences.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable outing that fits well into a day’s itinerary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Biosean, Marina del Sur, Pantalán 4 in Las Galletas, and concludes back at the same point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for families with older children, as the group size is small and the content is educational. Very young children might find the boat ride less comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, bottled water, and the use of science tools during the trip.

Are restrooms available onboard?
No, the tour doesn’t include onboard restrooms, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, giving flexibility if your plans shift.

Is food available on the boat?
Snacks are not provided, so bring your own if you think you’ll need a quick bite.

What marine life might I see?
Guests frequently spot pilot whales, Atlantic dolphins, and sometimes other marine creatures such as loggerhead turtles.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the inclusion of ocean clean-up nets and respectful wildlife viewing practices show a commitment to conservation.

How many people are on each tour?
Max 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and more chance to interact with the guide.

In summary, the Whale Watching and Marine Science Tour in Tenerife offers a unique, educational glimpse into the island’s rich marine wildlife. It combines the thrill of spotting whales and dolphins with a commitment to ocean conservation, making it a truly rewarding experience for curious travelers and families alike.