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If you’re looking for a whale watching tour that combines comfort, nature, and a touch of exclusivity, the Marine EcoSafari in the Canary Islands offers just that. This 2-hour adventure takes you aboard a sleek, luxury zodiac that promises a smooth ride through protected waters teeming with marine life. What makes this tour stand out is the use of a hydrophone, allowing you to hear the cetaceans’ clicks, whistles, and songs live—a rare chance to connect with these creatures on a deeper level.
One of the best parts? The small-group setting, which ensures a more personalized experience and less disturbance to the animals. Plus, this tour emphasizes eco-friendliness in a well-preserved environment, making it a great choice for responsible travelers.
A potential consideration is that it might not be suitable for very young children under 5 or those prone to seasickness. But overall, this is an engaging, well-organized trip that appeals especially to those eager to learn about marine mammals in their natural habitat while enjoying some luxury on the high seas.
Key Points
- Luxury Zodiac: Comfortable, stable, and intimate vessel for a premium experience.
- Live Underwater Sounds: Use of a hydrophone to hear cetaceans’ clicks and songs in real time.
- Small Group Size: Ensures personalized service and minimizes disturbance to marine wildlife.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable marine conservation specialists lead the tour.
- Eco-Friendly Focus: The tour is designed to be sustainable and respect natural habitats.
- Duration and Flexibility: 2-hour experience with potential for sightings in protected waters.
An In-Depth Look at the Marine EcoSafari Experience
Starting Point and Convenience
The tour begins at the Marina del Sur in Tenerife, specifically at the Puerto de Las Galletas, which is a straightforward location for most travelers staying on the island. The meeting point at Pantalan entrance 2 is easy to find, and the operators recommend arriving at least 20 minutes early—a smart move to avoid missing out. From there, a safety briefing lasting around 10 minutes prepares you for the adventure ahead.
The Journey Begins: Punta Rasca Lighthouse
Once everyone is on board, the zodiac departs toward the protected waters where marine mammals love to hang out. The first leg of the journey, approximately 20 minutes sailing past the Punta Rasca Lighthouse, offers scenic views of the coastline and a chance to settle into the boat’s comfortable seats. The vessel’s design ensures a smooth ride, even if you’re slightly prone to seasickness—though it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t recommended for those particularly sensitive to the motion of the sea.
Whale and Dolphin Watching in the Wild
The heart of this experience is the roughly one-hour whale and dolphin watching segment. The guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, shares fascinating facts about the cetaceans—like how pilot whales and dolphins use echolocation or how some whales sing haunting melodies. This knowledgeable guide, often described as engaging and passionate, makes the experience both educational and entertaining.
According to reviews, sightings tend to be successful thanks to the strategic stops and the experienced navigation team. You might encounter dolphins playing around the boat or even catch a glimpse of pilot whales. Occasionally, the tour might spot majestic whales, though these are less predictable. The tour emphasizes a minimal-impact approach, stopping at strategic points to maximize animal sightings without disturbing their natural behavior.
Live Sound Experience with a Hydrophone
What sets this tour apart is the use of a hydrophone, which is sometimes described as “magical” by participants. Hearing the clicks, whistles, and singing underwater allows you to sense the animals’ world beyond what’s visible. It’s a rare, intimate way to connect with marine life, especially since cetaceans communicate in ways humans usually can’t hear without specialized equipment.
Sightseeing and Reflection
After the main whale-watching session, the boat makes a short 20-minute sightseeing stop in Arona. It’s a chance to appreciate the rugged coastline and perhaps snap some photos of the lighthouse or other coastal features. The small-group setup makes this a relaxed moment to chat with guides or fellow travelers, sharing impressions and tips.
Return Journey and Final Impressions
The boat then sails back for about 10 minutes before returning to the marina. Many reviewers mention feeling satisfied with the balance between adventure and comfort, noting that the zodiac’s design minimizes noise and turbulence, making it a pleasant ride.
What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind
The price of $112 per person reflects a fair value considering the luxury vessel, expert guides, hydrophone experience, and small-group setting. Included in your ticket are:
- The zodiac ride
- Guided marine wildlife commentary
- Use of the hydrophone
- Passenger insurance
- One drink (water, soft drink, or beer)
- Safety gear like life jackets and safety advice
Extras such as photos or videos, transfers, or additional drinks aren’t included, which is typical for tours of this nature.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Wear comfortable clothes suitable for being on the water—layers are recommended since it can get breezy.
- Arrive early to ensure a smooth start.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions beforehand.
- This tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old or for individuals over 287 lbs (130 kg).
Authentic Insights from Reviews
Participants appreciate the personalized touch—many mention how small groups allow for better interaction with guides and fewer disturbances to the animals. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide explained everything about the whales’ communication—made the experience so much richer.” Another highlighted the quiet, smooth ride of the zodiac, making it accessible even for those concerned about seasickness.
The hydrophone, in particular, receives glowing remarks. Travelers say hearing the clicks and whistles underwater was “an unforgettable highlight,” providing a rare glimpse into marine life’s secret language.
Some mentioned that sightings are not guaranteed—nature is unpredictable, after all—but the hope and effort to see whales and dolphins are clearly well-managed and guided by experienced professionals.
The Sum Up
The Marine EcoSafari offers a thoughtful, eco-conscious, and comfortable whale-watching experience. It’s ideal for travelers who value personalized service, educational content, and authentic wildlife encounters without sacrificing comfort. The addition of live sound with the hydrophone makes this tour stand out, providing a rare sensory experience. With a small-group structure, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on conservation, it’s a responsible choice that delivers both entertainment and education.
If you’re visiting Tenerife and eager to see cetaceans in their natural environment while enjoying a luxury and intimate boat ride, this eco-safari checks all the boxes. Just be prepared for a couple of hours on the water, and remember, patience and luck play a part in spotting these incredible creatures. But even if you don’t see whales every time, the journey itself—listening to their underwater songs and learning about marine life—is worth every penny.
FAQ
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including departure, whale watching, and return.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Marina del Sur in Tenerife, specifically at the Puerto de Las Galletas, with the meeting point at pantalan entrance 2.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 years old, so keep that in mind if traveling with young kids.
Can I see whales on this tour?
While sightings are common thanks to strategic stops and experienced guides, wildlife encounters depend on natural factors and cannot be guaranteed.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the zodiac ride, a guide, hydrophone experience, one drink, safety equipment, and passenger insurance.
Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the tour emphasizes environmental conservation and minimal disturbance to marine life, making it a responsible choice.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for being on the water. Layers are recommended, and don’t forget sunscreen and maybe a hat.
How many people are on each tour?
The tour is designed for small groups, offering a more personalized experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability.
In all, this whale-watching experience offers a blend of adventure, learning, and luxury that appeals to nature lovers and responsible travelers alike. It’s a chance to witness one of the most awe-inspiring aspects of marine wildlife — in a setting that’s both comfortable and respectful of the environment.
