Dolphin and Whales watching cruise from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria

Dolphin and Whales Watching Cruise from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria

When it comes to marine wildlife experiences, this cruise offers a promising opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment just off the coast of Gran Canaria. With an average rating of 4.0 based on over 460 reviews, many travelers find this trip both enjoyable and worthwhile — especially for the chance to witness playful dolphins up close. The cruise features a comfortable boat with underwater viewing panels and friendly guides, making it suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add a splash of adventure to their holiday.

One thing we particularly appreciate is the inclusiveness of the experience — with unlimited sodas onboard, flexible departure times, and the option to upgrade for a longer trip with a swim stop or round-trip transfers from selected resorts. However, a key consideration is that, like all wildlife sightings, there’s no 100% guarantee of spotting marine mammals, and some reviews mention the unpredictability of sightings, especially in challenging weather conditions or when seas are rough.

For those who love the idea of combining scenic boat rides with the chance to see Atlantic marine life, this tour could be a highlight of your Gran Canaria trip. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value genuine encounters with nature, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and are okay with a bit of unpredictability.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are unpredictable but common, with many reviewers seeing dolphins and even whales.
• The boat features a glass-bottom section, offering a unique view of underwater life.
• Flexible options include longer cruises with swim stops and transfer services, adding convenience and extended fun.
• The crew is consistently praised for their friendliness and professionalism, enhancing the overall experience.
• Cost is reasonable, especially considering the included amenities like unlimited sodas and the potential for multiple sighting attempts.
• Weather and sea conditions can affect the experience, so be prepared for the possibility of less animal activity on some days.

Detailed Review of the Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from the Spirit of the Sea dock in Puerto Rico, a town easily accessible with nearby hotels offering pickup. The included transfer service only covers certain resorts around Mogan, Taurito, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, San Agustin, and Bahia Feliz, so if you’re staying outside these areas, you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point. This might sound like a minor inconvenience, but it’s worth considering for those seeking convenience, especially after a long travel day.

The check-in process is straightforward, and the tour is operated by Tour2b, a company with a reputation for friendly service. The typical booking window is about 13 days in advance, indicating that most travelers plan well ahead to secure their spot during busy seasons.

The Itinerary & Boat Features

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with two daily departures at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. The vessel, Spirit of the Sea, is praised for its spaciousness and the glass-bottom feature, which really sets this experience apart from typical boat trips. Passengers can watch marine life from above or peer through underwater windows, increasing the chances of seeing dolphins, pilot whales, minke whales, and other cetaceans.

The crew, often multilingual, provides insightful commentary about the animals, their behavior, and the local environment. According to reviews, guides like Captain Lorenzo are particularly noted for their ability to locate whales and dolphins, making the trip more exciting. Several travelers mention that the crew also takes the time to point out birds like Cory’s Shearwaters and other sea life, enriching the experience beyond just marine mammals.

Wildlife Sightings and the Authentic Experience

While many reviewers have seen dolphins — often in large pods or playful families — sightings are not guaranteed. The unpredictability of wildlife means some days are more fruitful than others. Eleftheria_B reports seeing a lively family of dolphins, describing them as playful and beautiful, while others like Christopher_D experienced less luck, commenting on poor weather and ricky seas that hampered sightings.

One recurring theme in the reviews is the crew’s effort to make the trip enjoyable regardless of whether animals are spotted. Many appreciated the “friendly and professional” attitude of staff who responded quickly to seasickness or other needs. For example, Rene_S praised the crew for their patience and quick response to seasick passengers, which can be a real difference-maker on choppier days.

Upgrades and Additional Options

For an extra layer of enjoyment, the option to upgrade to a longer cruise with a swim stop is available. This allows travelers to stretch their legs and cool off in the Atlantic, a perfect addition for those who want more than just sightseeing. Round-trip transfers from selected resorts are also offered, making the experience more comfortable and less stressful.

If you’re particularly eager to maximize your chances of seeing marine life, consider booking a second cruise free if no whales or dolphins are encountered on your first attempt. Several reviewers, like AlexRahmatulins, highlight the value of this guarantee, which underscores the tour’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

Food, Drinks, and Comfort

Unlimited sodas are included, which is a simple but appreciated touch — especially on warmer days when staying hydrated helps. If you prefer alcoholic beverages or snacks, they are available for purchase on board. The boat is designed for comfort, with ample seating and outdoor decks, so you can relax and watch the horizon or the sea beneath you.

How It Compares in Value

At around $46.44 per person, the price is fair considering the experience — especially if you’re lucky enough to see dolphins or whales. The inclusion of multiple departure times and optional upgrades adds flexibility, and the possibility of a second free cruise provides peace of mind. When reviews mention the professionalism of guides and the chance to see Atlantic cetaceans, many agree that the value is good for what you get.

The Realities and Limitations

Some reviews remind us that wildlife tours depend heavily on luck and weather. On days with high wind or ricky seas, sightings may be scarce, and the trip might feel less rewarding. For instance, Christopher_D notes that poor weather impacted their experience, and no whales or dolphins appeared, which can be disappointing but is out of the operator’s control.

The standard duration is ideally suited for those who want a taste of marine life without committing to a full-day trip. Longer options with swimming are available, but the core 2.5-hour cruise strikes a good balance for most travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat, this cruise offers an excellent chance, especially given the Canary Islands’ reputation for diverse marine species. The friendly crew and good onboard amenities make it a comfortable outing, and the glass-bottom views add an extra dimension to the experience. Cost-wise, it’s quite reasonable, especially considering the potential for repeat sightings if you don’t see animals on your first trip.

However, it’s worth remembering that wildlife encounters are never guaranteed. Weather conditions and animal behavior influence the success rate, so patience and a flexible mindset are key. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or simply seeking a scenic boat ride with the possibility of wild animal sightings, this tour fits the bill well.

Those who enjoy marine life, are okay with some unpredictability, and value knowledgeable guides will likely find this trip rewarding. It’s a great option for an authentic, fun, and educational experience on Gran Canaria’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book this tour without transportation?
Yes, but only if your accommodation is not in the listed pickup areas. The tour offers pick-up and drop-off for certain resorts, so if you’re outside these zones, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What is included in the tour?
The main features are a 2.5-hour sightseeing cruise departing from Puerto Rico, with unlimited sodas onboard, and the expertise of a friendly crew. The boat has a glass-bottom section for underwater viewing.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
Alcoholic beverages are not included but can be purchased on board. Snacks are also available for purchase if you wish to extend your enjoyment.

What happens if we don’t see any whales or dolphins?
The tour offers a second cruise free if no marine mammals are spotted during your trip, giving you a chance to try again without extra cost.

How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 13 days ahead, particularly in peak seasons, to secure their spot and plan around the departure times.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the overall tone of reviews suggests it’s family-friendly, especially since the boat is comfortable and the trip is short enough for young kids with no demanding activities involved.

In summary, this dolphin and whale watching cruise from Puerto Rico combines the thrill of marine wildlife encounters with the comfort of a well-organized boat trip. It’s perfect for those who seek authentic nature experiences and don’t mind the element of luck, all at a reasonable price point. Whether you catch sight of dolphins or simply enjoy the scenic Atlantic views, it offers a memorable slice of Gran Canaria’s rich marine environment.