Dolphin Watching Cruise to Lobos Island

This Lanzarote tour promises a blend of scenic ocean cruising, wildlife spotting, and relaxing beach time—perfect for those seeking a day out on the water with a hint of island exploration. While the experience boasts impressive views, friendly guides, and good value, it’s worth considering the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and the limited time on Lobos Island itself.

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its inclusion of hotel pickup, lunch, and round-trip transport, making it a straightforward, hassle-free way to explore the area. The chance to spot dolphins (and hopefully whales) while cruising adds a dash of excitement. However, some past travelers have noted that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, which is a common aspect of wildlife tours. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and a laid-back day by the sea without high expectations of seeing marine mammals every trip.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: The tour covers transport, lunch, and wildlife watching, which makes it convenient and cost-effective.
• Wildlife sightings are unpredictable: Dolphins are wild animals, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but guides often try their best.
• Comfortable boat experience: The jet boat and catamaran options provide a smooth ride, even for those prone to seasickness.
• Authentic Lobos Island visit: While disembarkation isn’t permitted due to regulations, the views of the island’s coves and natural beauty are memorable.
• Family-friendly: With a relaxed pace, inclusive drinks, and a picnic lunch, it’s suitable for families and travelers of all ages.
• Variety of experiences: From dolphin watching to swimming and snorkeling, there’s enough to keep everyone engaged.

An In-Depth Look at the Dolphin Watching Cruise to Lobos Island

The Booking and Practicalities

Starting at around $87.98 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusions like transport, lunch, and a half-day experience. The fact that many travelers book it 51 days in advance suggests it’s popular but not oversubscribed, which might mean a more intimate experience. Meeting points are conveniently located at Lanzarote Sea Tours in Puerto del Carmen, with pick-up options available from key resorts like Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and Puerto Calero.

The tour duration is roughly 5.5 hours, starting at 10:00 a.m. and concluding back at the meeting point. This timing allows travelers to enjoy a full morning on the water without feeling rushed, and it leaves the afternoon open for other activities.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s main attraction is the cruise around Lobos Island, a tiny but stunning natural reserve just off Fuerteventura’s coast. The island itself is 6 square kilometers, historically inhabited by monk seals and sea wolves, which gave it its name. Declared a Natural Park in 1982, Lobos Island is protected from development, preserving its rugged beauty.

While you can’t disembark on Lobos due to government restrictions, your boat will anchor at one of the coves, offering a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on deck. Past reviews note that the anchoring spot is beautiful, making the swim or snorkel a highlight for many.

The main excursion involves fast-paced jet boat rides that explore the beaches, bays, and lagoons—an experience that’s very engaging and offers some of the best photo opportunities. Reviewers mention that the guides, like Sergio and Juan Carlos, are especially friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting tidbits about the wildlife and geography.

Wildlife Watching and Sighting Expectations

Many travelers come eager to see dolphins and whales, which are frequently spotted on the way out and back. Guide explanations often mention that sightings depend on the weather and animal behavior, so there’s no guarantee. One reviewer shared, “We did see dolphins on the way to Lobos and a larger pod on the way back,” which highlights that wildlife sightings can be a delightful bonus rather than a certainty.

It’s important to note that the tours aim to maximize chances of sightings but acknowledge that nature is unpredictable. Some travelers, like Naomi, noted that dolphins weren’t visible due to a heat weather warning, which can influence marine animal activity.

The Lobos Island Experience

While there’s no disembarkation, the boat anchors near a cove where you can take a swim or do some snorkeling. The scenery here is tranquil, with crystal-clear waters and rugged lava formations. The boat’s crew often serves free drinks throughout the journey, including water, beer, or juice, helping keep everyone refreshed.

Lunch and Refreshments

A highlight for many is the included picnic lunch, which features Spanish omelette, tuna pies, and salads. Reviewers rave about the quality, often mentioning the well-prepared, tasty sandwiches and cold gazpacho. Naomi appreciated the good quality of the food, noting the inclusion of drinks during the journey as a plus.

While the lunch isn’t gourmet, it’s definitely satisfying for a day at sea, especially considering the price. Some reviews mention the lunch pack being simple but adequate, with one reviewer describing it as a “poor lunch packup,” but most found it satisfactory and appropriate for the trip.

Additional Inclusions and Considerations

The tour’s pickup service from major resorts is a big plus, simplifying logistics. However, this service isn’t available from other areas outside those listed, so travelers should check their pickup points carefully.

The tour is capped at 45 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere. The boat sizes and speed are suitable for most, with reviews noting the speed boat was comfortable and the guides friendly and engaging.

Weather conditions can impact the experience, especially wildlife sightings, so travelers should be prepared for the possibility of a less-than-ideal day if the weather turns poor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who love boat trips and scenic views but aren’t overly dependent on wildlife sightings. Families with children will appreciate the relaxed pace, the included lunch, and the chance to cool off with swimming and snorkeling. It’s also great for those who want a well-organized, hassle-free day out with hotel pickup, which simplifies planning.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed dolphin sightings, you might want to temper expectations or consider other wildlife-focused tours. The experience is more about enjoying the ocean scenery, the natural beauty of Lobos Island, and the pleasurable boat ride.

The Sum Up

The Dolphin Watching Cruise to Lobos Island offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. With friendly guides, good value, and the chance to see dolphins (albeit unpredictably), it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a memorable day on the water. The included lunch and pickup add convenience, making it a stress-free option for exploring Lanzarote’s marine surroundings.

While wildlife sightings depend on nature, the boat rides alone are enjoyable, and the views of Lobos Island are captivating. The experience is best suited for those who appreciate a relaxed, scenic cruise and are flexible about wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to spend a few hours afloat while enjoying the natural splendors of the Canary Islands.

FAQ

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed? No, dolphins are wild animals, so sightings depend on their behavior and weather conditions. Guides do their best to spot them, but it’s not guaranteed.

What is included in the tour price? The tour includes the excursion to Lobos Island, a picnic with sandwiches, gazpacho, and drinks, plus hotel pickup from selected resorts.

Can I disembark on Lobos Island? No, disembarking isn’t permitted due to government regulations, but you will get close enough to see its coves and natural landscape from the boat.

How long is the cruise? The total experience lasts around 5 hours 30 minutes, including pickup, travel, and the cruise itself.

Is the boat comfortable? Yes, past reviews mention the jet boat and catamaran as comfortable and suitable for most travelers, including families and those prone to seasickness.

What should I bring? Pack a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. It’s also advisable to bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Lanzarote cruise balances scenic exploration with a touch of wildlife excitement, all wrapped in a convenient, enjoyable package for a memorable day out.