Fuerteventura: Glass Bottom Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Taking a boat tour in Fuerteventura offers a wonderful combination of wildlife spotting, stunning scenery, and fun water activities. This particular cruise, operated by Fuerteventura Full Experience, is a 4-hour journey aboard the Odysee 3—a glass-bottom boat designed for viewing marine life, plus plenty of opportunities for relaxation, snorkelling, and enjoying a hearty Canarian meal.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances wildlife encounters with comfort and entertainment—you get to see dolphins, whales, and turtles, all while enjoying drinks, good food, and even some water-based fun. The only thing to consider is that the experience is mostly weather-dependent—if the sea gets too rough or wildlife isn’t in sight, the trip’s magic might be a bit muted.

This tour is perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed but engaging day on the sea. If you’re after a mix of wildlife, water activities, and delicious local cuisine, this cruise probably ticks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Wildlife Spotting: Dolphins, whales, turtles, and fish are often seen.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids and wheelchair users with attentive crew.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks, paella lunch, snorkeling, kayaking, and a waterslide included.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable staff make the experience engaging.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views of Fuerteventura’s beaches and coastlines.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off in South Fuerteventura.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting With Comfort and Convenience

One of the standout features of this tour is the hotel pickup service—it eases the logistics, especially if you’re staying in the south of Fuerteventura. The pickup is available from popular resorts in Costa Calma, Esquinzo, Jandia, and Morro Jable. If your hotel isn’t within these zones, the tour provider will send you an email detailing your pickup point, which is a thoughtful touch.

The boat, Odysee 3, is one of the few vessels capable of offering a glass-bottom viewing deck, giving you a window into the underwater world without getting wet. This is great for those who prefer relaxed wildlife viewing or have mobility concerns, as one reviewer praised how the crew helped with assistance, especially for wheelchair users.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

After boarding, you’ll start your journey along the coast of the Jandía Natural Park, renowned for its unspoiled beaches and clear waters. The boat’s main attraction is the chance to spot dolphins and whales, often seen from the rooftop or via the glass bottom. Many guests, including reviewers, have been lucky enough to see a variety of marine life, from pods of dolphins to even sperm whales and turtles.

A common highlight, as described by Elizabeth, is the viewing of dolphins both from the top deck and the glass bottom—which makes for spectacular photo opportunities. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, are experts at finding these creatures and making sure everyone gets a good look.

Water Activities and Relaxation

Midway through the cruise, the boat anchors for a snorkeling session, kayaking, and paddle surfing. Reviewers have enjoyed how the crew actively encourages participation and makes these activities accessible and fun. The waterslide, a hit with kids and adults alike, adds a layer of playful excitement.

While some guests mention that snorkeling might sometimes be disappointing if no fish are visible, others like Pippa note that the dolphin sightings alone justify the trip. As one reviewer pointed out, “seeing whales and dolphins was worth every euro,” even if the fish were shy for that particular trip.

Lunch and Drinks: A Taste of the Canaries

At noon, the crew serves a delicious Canarian paella, paired with drinks that include water, soft drinks, and local wines. The food scores highly on value and quality—Emma describes it as “tasty,” and many mention the attentive service during mealtime.

The availability of unlimited drinks, including beer, helps keep guests refreshed and in good spirits. Seagulls often “play in the air above,” creating a lively atmosphere that balances wildlife watching with relaxed socialising.

Return and Reflection

After about four hours on the water, the boat heads back to shore. Guests are usually given time to reflect on their sightings while enjoying the scenery. The transfer back to your hotel is smooth, with many reviewers noting how easy and hassle-free it is to finish the day.

The Value of This Tour

At $85 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the range of activities and inclusions. Dolphins and whales are often difficult to see from the shore, so witnessing them in their natural habitat from a comfortable boat is a real highlight. The combination of wildlife, water sports, and local cuisine makes it a well-rounded experience.

What Makes It Stand Out?

• The knowledgeable guides and crew are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and ability to find wildlife. Many reviewers mention the captain César and crew member Katey, who go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome.
• The underwater viewing deck adds an extra dimension to wildlife spotting, especially for those who prefer a less active observance.
• The variety of water activities keeps guests engaged, with snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddleboards available. The waterslide adds a playful touch for families.
• The delicious paella lunch and drinks are appreciated as a satisfying and authentic meal, often mentioned as a highlight.
• Accessibility and flexibility are important for many travelers, with wheelchair access and hotel pickup making it easier for all to join.

Potential Drawbacks

While the trip is packed with things to love, some might find the wildlife sightings unpredictable. As with any ocean-based tour, there’s no guarantee of dolphins or whales showing up, but many guests have been excited by their sightings. Weather can also influence the experience—rough seas might limit water activities or reduce wildlife visibility.

Plus, the snorkeling experience might be less rewarding if no fish are around, but the overall trip still offers plenty of entertainment. If you’re looking strictly for a wildlife safari, remember that sightings depend on natural factors beyond the crew’s control.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and water lovers. The inclusion of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and the waterslide makes it fun for children. Meanwhile, the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales appeals to nature lovers and anyone eager to see marine life in the wild.

It’s also great for those with mobility concerns, thanks to the attentive crew and accessible facilities. Food and drinks are plentiful, making it suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one day out.

FAQs

• Is hotel pickup available?
  Yes, pickup is included from hotels in Costa Calma, Esquinzo, Jandia, and Morro Jable. If your hotel is outside these areas, you’ll receive a designated pickup point and time via email.

• What is the duration of the tour?
  The trip lasts approximately 4 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

• What’s included in the price?
  Your ticket covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the glass-bottom boat cruise, a paella lunch, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle surfing, a waterslide, and drinks.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
  Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the crew is attentive to mobility needs; just inform them in advance.

• What languages are guides available in?
  Tours are offered in English, German, French, Spanish, Polish, and Italian.

• What should I wear?
  Dress casually, wear sunscreen, and bring a hat and sunglasses. Swimsuits are recommended for water activities.

• Are vegetarian options available?
  Yes, please inform the team beforehand if you have dietary restrictions.

• What happens if no wildlife is seen?
  While sightings are common, they depend on weather and animal behavior. Even without sightings, many guests enjoy the boat ride, water activities, and the scenery.

Final Thoughts

This Fuerteventura glass-bottom boat cruise offers a balanced day of wildlife viewing, water fun, and tasty local cuisine. The friendly staff and well-organized itinerary make it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging, and authentic experience on the water.

The mix of marine wildlife, scenic vistas, and active pursuits means there’s something for all—whether you’re a family with kids, a solo adventurer, or a couple looking for a memorable day out. Although sightings aren’t guaranteed, the positive reviews and comprehensive package suggest most guests leave satisfied and eager to return.

If you’re after a value-packed day that combines nature, adventure, and relaxation, this cruise could be just what your Fuerteventura trip needs. Just remember to bring your camera, an open mind, and a sense of fun!