Fuerteventura: Sailing with Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching

Imagine setting sail around the stunning coast of Fuerteventura, with the promise of spotting dolphins, whales, and manta rays, all while enjoying some well-earned downtime on deck. This popular tour by Flounder Yacht Sailing offers an engaging mix of wildlife encounters, water activities, and laid-back lounging, all within a compact 3.5-hour window. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a peaceful way to spend an afternoon, this trip delivers a balanced experience that many travelers have praised.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to see marine mammals in their natural environment, coupled with the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and indulge in tasty local tapas. The small group atmosphere—sometimes just 10 people—ensures a more intimate and personal experience, which many reviewers find adds a special touch to the day. A potential downside? Weather and wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, so patience is part of the package. Nonetheless, this tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, authentic ocean adventure that combines nature, comfort, and fun.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Excellent opportunities to see dolphins, whales, and manta rays, with knowledgeable guides helping spot these creatures.
• Comfort and Convenience: Small group sizes, provided snorkeling gear, and wind jackets make the trip comfortable and personal.
• Value for Money: At around $96, the trip includes food, drinks, and safety equipment, offering good value for a multi-sensory day at sea.
• Authentic Experience: Local-inspired tapas and the chance to sail with experienced skippers create an immersive, genuine trip.
• Flexibility & Ease: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option give you flexibility.
• Memorable Moments: Many travelers recall close encounters with dolphins and whales, making this experience truly special.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The journey begins in front of Restaurante Cofradia, a convenient spot close to Morro Jable’s harbor. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with check-in times varying, so it’s wise to confirm your start time when booking. The boat itself is roomy and well-maintained, with a crew that includes skipper Younes and guides like Carlos, who are lauded for their friendly professionalism.

What to Expect at the Harbor

The tour kicks off with a visit to the harbor, where you’ll have your first chance to spot manta rays gliding gracefully near the harbor walls. Reviewers frequently mention this as a highlight—“watching these creatures swim along the sea floor”—and it’s a great warm-up for the day’s aquatic adventures. This part of the trip offers a relaxed start and a chance to marvel at the local marine life in a relatively calm setting.

Setting Sail for Marine Wildlife

Once on board, the crew provides a brief overview of the day’s plan before the engine is turned off, and the sails are hoisted. This is where the magic begins. The captain uses radio communication to listen for dolphin or whale sightings, often resulting in the boat changing course to chase these sightings. Many reviews praise the experienced and attentive crew for their ability to find wildlife and make the experience memorable. Notably, sightings of bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and even Orcas are reported, with many guests describing their encounters as “majestic” or “peaceful.”

Snorkeling and Water Time

After roughly two hours of sailing, the boat anchors at a tranquil spot—often near cliffs or secluded bays. Here, you’ll get the chance to swim and snorkel using provided gear. Reviewers say the water clarity is excellent, making it easy to see the vibrant sea life below. One guest mentioned a “ray gliding beneath” them during snorkel time, which perfectly captures the experience’s beauty. Although water temperatures are seasonal, most find the experience refreshing and worth the effort.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

Post-swim, the crew serves delicious local tapas—a mix of cheeses, meats, and fresh bread—paired with drinks like wine or honey rum. Many travelers highlight the quality and authenticity of the food, which feels more like a shared meal among friends than a typical tour snack. The relaxed atmosphere on deck makes it easy to sunbathe or chat while enjoying the scenery and listening to good music. To top it off, wind jackets are provided, so you stay comfortable even if the breeze picks up.

Return and Reflection

As the tour winds down, the boat heads back toward the harbor, with the captain often turning on the radio for marine updates or sightings reports. The overall vibe is one of peaceful adventure, with plenty of time to soak up the sun and the sea air. Many reviews note how friendly and attentive the crew is, often mentioning guides like Carlos, Younes, or Mary by name, for their warmth and professionalism.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

The reviews consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride. Guests appreciate how well the crew manages safety, especially during snorkeling or wildlife spotting—“safety was taken seriously, but the atmosphere remained relaxed”—and how they go the extra mile, like giving guests a little bit of the sailing control or sharing local tips.

Wildlife sightings are a major draw. Many reviewers mention seeing dolphins swimming directly alongside the boat, sometimes breaching or jumping out of the water. The chance to see whales, manta rays, and pilot whales adds that element of unpredictability that keeps the trip exciting, even if sightings aren’t guaranteed every time.

The small group size makes this trip feel intimate, allowing for better interaction with guides and a more personalized experience. One guest pointed out that compared to larger catamaran tours, this smaller boat felt more ‘special,’ with the crew making a genuine effort to ensure everyone feels included.

The snorkeling segment receives high praise, with beautiful, clear waters and interesting marine life. While some mentioned the gear could be updated, most accepted it as part of the authentic experience.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, and spots fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Bring essentials: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are must-haves to stay comfortable.
• Dress appropriately: The provided wind jackets will help if it gets breezy.
• Arrive early: Being on time ensures you don’t miss the start and the first manta rays.
• Be patient: Wildlife sightings depend on luck and weather conditions, so keep your camera ready and your expectations realistic.
• Consider your swimming ability: If you’re less confident in the water, discuss your needs with the crew beforehand.

Price and Value Analysis

At $96 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. Included are skipper services, insurance, food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and wind jackets. Travelers consistently praise the quality of the food and the attentiveness of the crew, which makes the value quite compelling, especially given the wildlife encounters and relaxed atmosphere.

You won’t find a cheaper, more intimate marine adventure with such a high likelihood of dolphin sightings and a chance to snorkel in pristine waters. While the trip isn’t a full-day expedition, it hits the sweet spot of being long enough to feel substantial but short enough for those with limited time or patience for longer tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, water activities, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who love nature and want to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat without the rush or crowds of larger tours. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find the small group setting highly appealing.

It’s also ideal for food lovers who want to taste authentic local flavors while enjoying the sea. If you’re keen on snorkeling but prefer manageable, well-organized trips, this tour offers excellent equipment and guidance.

However, those expecting guaranteed wildlife sightings or longer snorkeling sessions might want to explore other options. The trip is most satisfying for people who appreciate a laid-back, authentic, and well-organized boat adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is small, typically around 10 people, ensuring a personal experience and plenty of interaction with guides.

Are the wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather and animal activity, but reviews suggest the crew is skilled at locating dolphins, whales, and manta rays when possible.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The crew provides wind jackets, and snorkeling gear is included.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, after sailing for about two hours, you’ll have time to swim and snorkel in the clear waters with the provided equipment.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes local-style tapas and drinks like wine or honey rum, served onboard after snorkeling.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Guests with mobility issues should check with the crew beforehand; the tour is generally suitable for most able-bodied travelers. Children over a certain age may enjoy the trip, but it’s best to confirm with the provider.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting to combine sailing, marine wildlife, snorkeling, and delicious local food into a single, well-organized trip, this Fuerteventura tour checks all the boxes. It offers a wonderful chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment, often up close, while relaxing on deck with a drink in hand. The guides’ warmth and expertise, paired with the intimate group size, make this a standout experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, relaxed adventures rather than high-octane thrills. The value for money, considering the included food, drinks, and snorkeling gear, makes this a worthwhile investment for a memorable day at sea. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone seeking a peaceful escape, this sailing tour has something special to offer.

In summary, if you’re after a genuine, small-group marine adventure that combines wildlife, snorkelling, and local flavors, this tour by Flounder Yacht Sailing will likely be one of your favorite experiences in Fuerteventura.