3h Whale Watching Private tour Beneteau Oceanis 440

A detailed look at the 3-hour Whale Watching Private Tour on a Beneteau Oceanis 44 in Tenerife

Taking a boat trip to see whales and dolphins is one of those bucket-list experiences that feels both relaxing and awe-inspiring. This private 3-hour tour in Tenerife promises just that—an intimate, comfortable cruise designed for close encounters with marine life, all aboard a stylish Beneteau Oceanis 44. From the moment you set sail from Puerto Colón, you’ll have a chance to spot pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and other creatures of the Atlantic, all while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a well-equipped sailing yacht.

What we particularly love about this experience is the personalized approach—it’s a private tour for your group, meaning no crowded decks or noisy crowds. Plus, the boat’s combination of comfort, style, and eco-friendly features makes it stand out. That said, because it’s a shorter, 3-hour trip, it’s best suited for travelers who want a focused, relaxed wildlife encounter without spending a full day at sea. If you’re searching for a smooth, intimate, and informative cruise that balances fun with nature, this tour could be perfect.

One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions in the Atlantic can influence sightings—sometimes the marine life is more visible than others. Still, with experienced guides and a water-authorized vessel, your chances of seeing pilot whales are high. This trip suits travelers who appreciate comfort, authenticity, and the chance to learn about the local marine ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Private and intimate experience with a maximum of 8 guests on board, perfect for those seeking exclusivity.
• Eco-friendly vessel equipped with solar panels and water autonomy, emphasizing sustainability.
• Focus on marine wildlife: pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and other species typical of Canarian waters.
• Comfort and convenience: spacious cabins, shaded areas, well-equipped galley, and outdoor dining options.
• Inclusive snacks and drinks: local cheeses, salami, jams, olives, hummus, canarian mojo, and a variety of cold beverages.
• Flexible timing and cancellation: check availability for your preferred start time, with full refund options if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The Experience: Setting Sail from Puerto Colón

We loved how this tour begins in Puerto Colón, a popular and well-equipped marina in the south of Tenerife. The boat, a Beneteau Oceanis 44, is both elegant and practical, with a length of 12 meters, a shaded roof for comfort, and a layout designed for deep water journeys. The guides are clearly passionate—one reviewer mentioned how the “top guide” made the experience even more enjoyable, sharing insights about marine life and local waters.

Once onboard, your group will set off under full sail, heading toward the Atlantic. The first 45 minutes are dedicated to a leisurely cruise along the coast of Costa Adeje, where you’ll enjoy the scenery of volcanic cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush coastal towns. It’s a beautiful way to start your adventure, with plenty of opportunities for photos and simply soaking in the views.

The Marine Encounters: Whale and Dolphin Watching

The core of this tour is, of course, spotting whales and dolphins. The vessel has the proper authorization for whale watching in the south of Tenerife, and the guides are well-versed in the habits and locations of pilot whales—Canary waters are their habitat. One reviewer highlighted how they “saw pilot whales,” and another noted, “relaxed tour, saw pilot whales,” emphasizing the likelihood of encounters.

The “secret stop” for dolphin and whale watching is approximately 20 minutes where the crew will slow down and scan the waters for telltale fins and spouts. This is when the guides share fascinating facts about marine behaviors, adding educational value to the fun. With a good chance to see pilot whales—known for their curiosity and gentle nature—you’ll feel a real connection to the ocean’s inhabitants.

Leisurely Stop at Yacht & Snorkeling Opportunities

After the marine wildlife viewing, the boat docks at a designated spot for about 50 minutes, allowing guests to relax, take photos, or even jump into the water if they wish. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, making it easy to explore the underwater world for a quick swim. One guest mentioned how they enjoyed a “dip in the water,” which offers a refreshing break from the sea voyage and a different perspective on Tenerife’s marine life.

The yacht provides a comfortable setting for this break, with outdoor tables, shade, and an inviting atmosphere. The crew’s local food snacks and cold drinks are available here, creating a perfect setting for a casual outdoor meal, with cheeses, salami, jams, olives, and fresh bread. The inclusion of local produce and beverages like cava, wine, and beer adds a nice touch of local flavor.

Final Stop and Return to Puerto Colón

The cruise concludes back at Puerto Colón after approximately three hours of sailing. The last segment offers a chance to unwind, enjoy the sunset (if timing permits), and reflect on the marine encounters. Guests often appreciate the relaxed pace, the knowledgeable guides, and the scenic views, making this more than just a wildlife tour—it’s a full sensory experience of Tenerife’s coastal beauty.

What’s Included and Practical Details

This private tour includes the use of a 14-meter Beneteau Oceanis 44 yacht, known for its comfort and stability. All amenities—spacious cabins, galley, shaded areas, and outdoor dining—are designed for a relaxing journey, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer. Snacking with local cheeses, jams, and salami, along with cold drinks, makes the trip feel special without extra cost.

Snorkeling equipment is provided if you want to explore beneath the waves, and the guide’s multilingual skills (Spanish, Italian, English) ensure clear communication and engaging commentary.

The tour is flexible in timing—check availability for your preferred start time—as well as cancellation, with full refunds available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. The group size is limited to 8, maintaining an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

The Authenticity and Value of This Tour

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of this experience. One guest called it a “relaxed tour,” highlighting the chance to see pilot whales and then enjoy a dip in the water with a “top guide” leading the way. The small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity, and the vessel’s well-maintained state adds to the overall comfort.

The inclusion of local snacks and drinks, along with the opportunity to snorkel, makes this trip feel like excellent value for money. It’s not just a wildlife tour—it’s a well-rounded, immersive experience that balances education, relaxation, and fun. The guides’ expertise and friendly attitude genuinely enhance the trip, ensuring you leave with memorable stories and stunning photos.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, private wildlife encounter in Tenerife. It suits those interested in marine life—pilot whales, dolphins, and turtles—without the crowds. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or friends seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water.

Those who appreciate sustainable tourism will value the eco-friendly features of the vessel, while food lovers will enjoy the local snack offerings. If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, education, and leisure in a scenic setting, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting and ending at Puerto Colón. Check availability for specific start times.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the private, relaxed setting makes it suitable for families, especially those with older children interested in marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat and a towel, as the boat has shaded areas but sun exposure is inevitable. Comfortable clothes and sunscreen are also recommended.

Do I need to know how to sail?
No prior sailing experience is necessary. The boat is operated by experienced guides, and your focus can be on relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes. Local food snacks and a variety of cold drinks, including cava, wine, beer, and water, are included. Snorkeling equipment is also available.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

Final Words

This private 3-hour whale watching tour aboard a Beneteau Oceanis 44 offers a rare blend of comfort, intimacy, and adventure. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the opportunity to see pilot whales in their natural habitat, it promises more than just a boat trip—it provides a genuine connection with Tenerife’s marine environment.

Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience without the crowds, this tour delivers value through its well-rounded approach—combining wildlife sightings, scenic cruising, local snacks, and optional snorkeling. If your goal is to enjoy the ocean’s beauty in style and comfort, this trip is well worth considering.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a peaceful day on the water, this experience offers a memorable slice of Tenerife’s coastal charm.

Note: Always check availability and weather conditions before booking, as marine wildlife sightings depend on ocean currents and weather. Book in advance to secure your private spot.