Whales and Dolphins excursion on a Luxury Yacht in Canary Islands

Taking to the seas around Tenerife in a sleek, well-equipped yacht for a whale and dolphin watching adventure is an experience many travelers dream of. This tour, offered by Royal Ocean, combines the thrill of spotting marine mammals with the luxury and comfort of a small-group yacht trip. With only a handful of guests on board, it promises a personalized vibe that’s perfect for those seeking something special, rather than a crowded cruise.

What we really love about this experience is the intimacy it offers—limiting groups to just eight people ensures everyone gets a prime spot and personalized attention from the crew. Plus, the chance to combine wildlife viewing with swimming and snorkeling in gorgeous bays makes this a well-rounded sea day. On the flip side, one possible consideration is the weather dependence—sea conditions can affect whale sightings, which can be a source of disappointment if luck isn’t on your side. Still, the high success rate (around 95%) and the professionalism of the team make it a solid choice for most.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate luxury and want a deeper, more authentic experience of Tenerife’s marine life. If you’re an animal lover, a fan of small-group adventures, or simply looking for a relaxing day on the water with quality food and drinks, this trip should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized, intimate experience.
• Whale and dolphin sightings are highly likely, with many guests seeing multiple species.
• Luxury yacht amenities include an onboard restroom, snacks, and drinks.
• Snorkeling and swimming stops add an active, fun element to the tour.
• Professional crew and commentary enhance your understanding of marine life.
• Great value for money with quality food, drinks, and wildlife experiences included.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off at Royal Ocean’s base in Puerto Deportivo Marina del Sur in Las Galletas. From there, you’ll be whisked away on a roughly 3-hour trip (some reviews note it can extend slightly beyond that), giving enough time to soak in the views, spot whales, and enjoy the waters. The trip is designed to be relaxed but packed with memorable moments.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Whales and Dolphins Watching in Los Cristianos
The journey begins with a cruise from Las Galletas towards Los Cristianos, where your chances of seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even minke whales are high—about 95%, according to the tour providers. The crew, including guides like Michael and Dimitri, are praised for their friendliness and expert commentary, sharing interesting facts about the marine mammals. Reviewers mention that seeing whales “hunting or relaxing” and watching dolphins “swimming alongside” is truly a highlight, making this part of the trip a bucket-list moment.

Stop 2: Relaxation, Snorkeling, and Refreshments
After the wildlife viewing, the yacht anchors at a scenic bay near the cliffs of Los Cristianos. Here, guests can swim, snorkel, or simply relax with delicious tapas and drinks—including alcoholic options, bottled water, and snacks. The boat’s well-maintained amenities, like its onboard restroom and air conditioning, make this stop comfortable and convenient. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of snacks and the friendly service, with one praising the “excellent setup of snacks and drinks.” This stop balances active fun with leisure, and the protected bay environment offers a perfect spot for kids and adults alike.

The Yacht and Crew

The vessel, described as luxury and well-equipped, is a highlight. Guests rave about its cleanliness, comfort, and the fact that it includes an onboard restroom, which is often overlooked on similar tours. The crew, notably Michael and Dimitri, earn high praise for their hospitality and engaging commentary. One reviewer shared that “Michael and his captain will look after you,” making the experience feel both professional and personal.

Food, Drinks, and Extras

What elevates this tour from a simple wildlife cruise to a memorable outing is the quality of onboard treats. Guests can enjoy snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages, along with bottled water—all included in the price. Reviewers mention how the snacks were “set up well” and drinks were “excellent,” contributing to a relaxed, party-like atmosphere. Lunch is also provided, further adding value for the overall experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour limits the group to a maximum of ten travelers, with many reviews saying only 8 guests were on their trip. This small size makes conversations more intimate and allows everyone a good view, especially during wildlife sightings and swimming breaks. Guests note a “relaxed conversation” and the ability to move freely around the boat, which is often not possible on larger excursions.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from past guests reflects a high level of satisfaction. Many emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the crew—particularly Michael and Dimitri—who go the extra mile to ensure everyone has a good time. For example, one review describes how the crew tried hard to find whales even on a windy day, which showcases their dedication.

Seeing pilot whales and dolphins close up is frequently highlighted as a major highlight. One guest affectionately recalled that they “swam with dolphins and saw whales swimming alongside the boat for an hour,” which indicates how close these animals can get to the vessel.

Food and drinks also receive praise, with several reviewers calling the snacks “great” and the drinks “refreshing.” This added touch makes the trip feel indulgent and fun, rather than just a wildlife cruise.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, there are some mentions of weather dependency. For instance, if conditions are choppy or windy, whale sightings can be elusive, which can be disappointing. One guest mentioned that despite seeing dolphins, they didn’t spot whales due to weather, but appreciated the effort made by the crew to find calmer waters. Another note is the boat’s age—some reviews mention it’s an older vessel from 1999—but it’s well maintained so it doesn’t detract from the experience.

Also, the trip length is generally around 3 hours, with some feeling that is just enough. If you’re seeking longer excursions, this may feel a bit brief, but most agree it offers good value for this time span considering the activities included.

Transportation and Booking

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation in Las Galletas. The tour provider offers pickup options, which can simplify your day. Booking is popular, with most travelers planning their trip about three weeks in advance—a good indicator of how sought-after this experience is.

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip, which offers flexibility if weather or other plans change. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for those prone to sea sickness.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For whale and dolphin lovers, this excursion offers a rare chance to see marine mammals in their natural habitat with minimal crowding. The small-group setting, knowledgeable crew, and quality amenities make it stand out. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling adds layers of enjoyment and value.

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate luxury without the fuss, and those who want to combine wildlife sightings with some relaxing sea time. The high success rate of sightings and the glowing reviews about the crew make it a reliable choice.

If you’re after a memorable, more personal sea adventure in Tenerife, this yacht trip offers just that—plus some delicious onboard treats and the chance to witness some of the Atlantic’s most adorable marine mammals in action.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time for whale and dolphin watching, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Royal Ocean’s base at Puerto Deportivo Marina del Sur in Las Galletas.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes snacks, soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages, along with a provided lunch.

How many people are on board?
Group size is capped at 8 to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, there is a stop at a scenic bay for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment provided.

Is the boat comfortable and well-maintained?
Guests frequently comment on the boat being luxurious, clean, and equipped with an onboard restroom.

What if I don’t see any whales?
The chances of sightings are around 95%, but weather can sometimes affect this. If no whales are seen, the crew tries their best, and some reviews note they were still very satisfied with the overall experience.

Are there options for pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered to simplify your logistics, with clear meeting instructions available.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable for families, especially since the boat is small and the environment relaxed. Always consider sea sickness risk, especially for young children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Whether you’re after a thrilling wildlife encounter, a luxurious day on the water, or simply some well-earned relaxation in Tenerife’s beautiful waters, this whale and dolphin excursion hits the mark with its combination of comfort, authenticity, and a chance to see some of the Atlantic’s most charming creatures.