Discover whales in Tenerife: exclusive yacht tour with swimming and lunch.

When it comes to spotting marine life in the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers some of the most memorable adventures. This particular tour, run by Neptuno Whale Experience Tenerife, promises an intimate, responsible, and fun-filled cruise focusing on whale and dolphin sightings, plus a refreshing swim and a tasty onboard lunch. It’s designed for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in a relaxed, eco-conscious setting.

What we love about this experience is the small group size—just 20 people—which guarantees a peaceful and personal atmosphere. The responsible whale watching aspect, with certified Blue Flag boats, ensures that your wildlife encounters are both respectful and sustainable. Plus, the combination of marine wildlife, scenic coastlines, and leisure activities makes it a well-rounded, value-driven tour.

One thing to keep in mind is the 3-hour duration—it’s perfect for a half-day adventure, but if you’re craving an even longer experience, you might want to consider other options. This tour suits a range of travelers: families, couples, nature lovers, or anyone looking to connect with Tenerife’s wild side without compromising on comfort or ethics.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a peaceful, personalized experience.
• Responsible whale watching with certified Blue Flag vessels means eco-conscious encounters.
• Includes a swim stop in a sheltered bay for relaxation and cooling off.
• Delicious onboard lunch with fresh salads, rice, meatballs, and drinks.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary in multiple languages.
• Ideal for families, couples, and adventure seekers wanting an authentic marine experience.

Introduction: A Responsible and Intimate Whale Watching Tour

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales and dolphins in the wild, Tenerife’s coast is a prime spot. This exclusive yacht experience offers a calmer, more intimate alternative to larger, crowded boat trips. With only 20 passengers, everyone gets a good view and personal attention from the crew—and you won’t have to fight for space.

One of the standout features is the responsible approach to wildlife viewing. The boats are Blue Flag certified, meaning they meet strict standards for environmental respect and safety. This isn’t just about ticking off sightings; it’s about seeing marine creatures like pilot whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles in their natural habitat, without disturbing them.

A big plus is the variety of activities packed into a short three hours. From wildlife spotting to swimming in crystal-clear waters and sharing a delicious lunch, the tour balances adventure with relaxation. While the price is quite reasonable at around $67 per person, the quality of these features makes it a great value for those seeking a genuine, eco-friendly experience.

However, note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and the trip’s timing and group size make it important to plan ahead if you want to fit it into your Tenerife itinerary. This tour hits the sweet spot for anyone eager for an authentic and responsible marine adventure.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Transfer

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from 20 different locations in Los Cristianos, including major resorts and landmarks like the Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque and Puerto Colón. This flexibility is a real bonus, especially if you’re staying in one of these popular areas. The coach ride to the port takes about an hour, giving you time to relax and maybe review some wildlife facts or simply enjoy the scenery.

Whale Watching Along Tenerife’s Southwest Coast

Once at the port of Los Cristianos, you’ll board a small, exclusive yacht—a vessel designed to maximize comfort and minimize environmental impact. The cruise itself lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll sail along the coastline known for its rich biodiversity.

According to reviews, the crew, including guides like Javier and Maria, are knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights about marine life, the local ecosystems, and the importance of responsible observation. Guests have reported seeing pilot whales, dolphins jumping alongside the boat, and even sea turtles, which highlights how active and vibrant Tenerife’s waters are.

Wildlife Encounters: Respectful & Natural

The emphasis on responsible viewing is clear. The crew is trained in eco-conscious practices, ensuring that each encounter respects the animals’ natural behaviors and habitats. Several reviews mention how the guides are very attentive, providing plenty of opportunities for photos while maintaining a respectful distance.

Swimming Stop & Relaxation

After the wildlife watching, around the mid-point of the trip, the boat anchors in a sheltered bay for about an hour. This is the perfect time to dive into the crystal-clear waters, swim, or just unwind on the deck. The reviews highlight how much guests appreciate this break—many mention it as a highlight, especially the opportunity to cool off and enjoy nature up close.

Lunch and Refreshments

Post-swim, everyone gets to enjoy a delicious onboard lunch. The menu includes fresh salad, rice with vegetables, homemade meatballs, bread, and bananas for dessert. Several reviewers praised the quality and freshness of the food, noting it’s more than just a snack—it’s a proper meal.

Throughout the cruise, soft drinks, water, beer, and wine are available, making it easy to stay refreshed while marveling at the scenery. Guests have appreciated the attentiveness of the crew in keeping drinks flowing and ensuring everyone is comfortable.

Return and Drop-off

The trip concludes with a smooth 30-minute sail back to Los Cristianos, followed by drop-offs at the same locations from which guests were picked up. The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules or young children.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Small, Intimate Group

Unlike larger boat trips, this tour keeps the group size limited to 20 people, which results in a quieter, more personal experience. Guests have remarked on how the small group fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows for better wildlife viewing.

Responsible Wildlife Observation

The Blue Flag certification isn’t just a badge; it’s a commitment. The guides are trained to observe wildlife ethically, avoiding chasing or disturbing animals. This approach not only benefits the environment but also ensures you get genuine, unspoiled sightings.

Quality Food & Beverages

Guests consistently praise the home-cooked lunch and the variety of drinks on offer. It’s rare to find a boat tour where the food is genuinely tasty and plentiful, especially at this price point.

Expert, Multilingual Guides

Reviews mention guides like Javier, Maria, and others who speak English, German, and Spanish, offering a wealth of knowledge and a friendly attitude. Their insights help deepen understanding and appreciation of marine life, making the trip both fun and educational.

The Value for Money

At $67 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering all that’s included: wildlife watching, swimming, a full meal, drinks, and an intimate setting. The focus on responsible tourism adds a layer of peace of mind, knowing your presence is not harming the environment. For travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience that balances adventure, education, and comfort, this trip hits the mark.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families with children, couples, and solo travelers who want a manageable, meaningful marine adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who value ethical wildlife encounters and prefer small groups over crowded tours. If you love nature, good food, and a laid-back vibe—and want to see whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles in their natural habitat—this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
The boat is designed for groups of 20 and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so check your mobility before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat for sun protection, a change of clothes in case you get wet, and beachwear for swimming. Don’t forget sunscreen!

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including pickup, wildlife watching, swimming, and lunch.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, soft drinks, beer, and wine are available throughout the trip.

Is it possible to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What wildlife might I see?
You could see pilot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and flying fish, depending on the day’s natural activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour eco-friendly?
The vessels are Blue Flag certified, and guides are trained in responsible wildlife observation to minimize disturbance.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife whale-watching tour offers a pretty perfect blend of responsible wildlife viewing, comfort, and fun. Its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and emphasis on eco-conscious practices make it stand out in a crowded market. Whether you’re keen to see whales and dolphins in their natural setting, enjoy a peaceful swim, or simply soak up the scenic coast, this trip delivers. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the sea and its creatures, all while respecting their environment.

For travelers wanting an authentic, sustainable experience that balances wildlife, relaxation, and good food, this yacht tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize quality over quantity and prefer a more personal touch. Just pack your sunhat, a smile, and your sense of adventure for an unforgettable day on Tenerife’s waters.

Experience Type: Responsible whale watching, wildlife, swimming, local cuisine
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Around $67 per person
Best For: Families, couples, nature lovers, eco-conscious travelers