Puerto Colon: Whale-Watching Sailing Tour with Meal & a Swim

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water surrounded by the Atlantic’s playful dolphins and majestic whales, this sailing tour from Puerto Colon offers a solid option. While it may not be a luxury yacht, it provides a genuine chance to see marine life, enjoy a tasty meal, and cool off with a refreshing swim—all wrapped in an intimate, small-group setting.

One of the standout features we love is the combination of wildlife spotting with a laid-back beach stop. Plus, a local captain with plenty of knowledge adds a personal touch, making the experience more authentic and engaging. On the flip side, some travelers might find the three-hour duration a bit short if they’re eager for more sea time or whale sightings.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. If you’re not fussed about extensive travel or luxury amenities and simply want an authentic, budget-friendly experience in Tenerife, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Wildlife Watching: The main draw is spotting whales and dolphins, guided by a knowledgeable local skipper.
• Culinary Experience: Enjoy authentic Tenerife flavors with a delicious paella and a glass of cava or beer.
• Beach Break: Pause for a swim at a warm sandy bay, perfect for cooling off and soaking up the sun.
• Small Group: Limited to 11 participants, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks and food are included, adding value and convenience.
• Practicality: No hotel pickup, so plan your transportation to the meeting point at Pantalan 1.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Embarking from Puerto Colon

The adventure begins at Puerto Colon’s Pantalan 1, where the boat “Mola Mola 2” awaits. The early part of the trip sets a relaxed, friendly tone—you’re onboard with a small group, which makes for a more intimate experience. The boat itself is described as beautiful in reviews, providing a comfortable platform to enjoy the sea.

Sighting Marine Life

The core of this trip is whale and dolphin watching. The tour is led by a local captain who knows the best spots to find these creatures. Reviewers mention seeing pilot whales quite close, with one describing the experience as “truly amazing.” The captain’s explanations and friendly demeanor are highlighted as a bonus, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.

The Meal and Drinks

Midway through the sailing, you’ll stop for a delicious paella paired with a glass of bubbly cava or beer. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a well-prepared meal that captures the flavors of Tenerife. Having food and drinks included makes this a good value, especially as it eliminates the need to bring your own supplies.

The Swim Stop

The highlight for many is the stopping point at a sandy bay for a swim. The water is described as cool and inviting, perfect for a quick dip. Reviewers appreciated the nicer swimming spot and the chance to relax in the sunshine while anchored. Remember to bring your towel, swimwear, and sunscreen for maximum comfort.

Returning to Puerto Colon

As the trip winds down, you’ll sail back under the warm sun, feeling the breeze and soaking in the views. The small group size means more attention from the crew and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.

What Travelers Are Saying

• “Everything was beautiful, the boat, the captain, the pilot whales! We got to see a family very close and it was truly amazing,” shared Lynette. Her experience highlights the proximity to whales and the overall quality of the vessel and crew.

• “The captain is very friendly and gives good explanations. Nice swimming spot,” mentioned another reviewer, emphasizing the value of an engaging guide and the quality of the swimming area.

These reviews suggest the trip is both visually stunning and led by knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall experience. The inclusion of snacks and drinks, along with opportunities for swimming, make it a well-rounded outing.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price: At $68 per person, this tour offers a decent balance of value, especially considering food, drinks, and activities are included. It’s a budget-friendly option for those wanting more than just a boat ride.

Duration: Lasting approximately three hours, the trip is short enough to fit into a busy schedule but long enough to provide meaningful wildlife sightings and time at the beach.

Group Size: Limited to 11 participants, which is ideal for those who prefer an intimate experience over large, crowded tours.

What to Bring: Be sure to pack sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear—all essential for comfort and safety.

Sailing Into Open Ocean: Keep in mind that the tour sails into the open sea, so seasickness might be a concern for some. It’s advisable to take precautions if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Accessibility: This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or visually impaired travelers. It’s best suited for able-bodied participants who can handle a boat trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who dreams of catching glimpses of whales and dolphins in their natural environment, this tour checks those boxes. The small group size and friendly guide make it ideal for travelers seeking a more personal experience. Food lovers will appreciate the authentic Tenerife paella, and anyone wanting a quick refresh and a swim will enjoy the bay stop.

It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want a mix of wildlife, local cuisine, and sea air, without the fuss of luxury extras or long excursions. However, if you’re after a more extensive whale-watching experience or luxury amenities, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You should plan to meet at the designated point, Pantalan 1 in Puerto Colon.

What do I need to bring? Pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for comfort during the swim and sunbathing.

How long is the tour? The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, including sailing, eating, and swimming.

Is food provided? Yes, a delicious paella meal and drinks (beer, cava, or other beverages) are included in the price.

Can I see whales on this tour? While sightings depend on luck and sea conditions, many reviews mention seeing pilot whales and dolphins up close.

Is the tour suitable for children or families? It’s generally suitable for most able-bodied travelers, but the trip may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Is seasickness a concern? Since the tour sails into the open ocean, seasickness could be an issue for sensitive travelers. Prepare accordingly if needed.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 11 participants, making for a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Colon whale-watching sailing tour offers a well-rounded blend of wildlife viewing, authentic local cuisine, and seaside relaxation. While it’s not a lengthy or luxurious cruise, its small-group approach ensures a more personal connection with both the marine environment and your guides. The inclusion of a tasty paella, drinks, and a swimming stop makes it an excellent value for travelers seeking a fun, authentic Tenerife experience without breaking the bank.

Ideal for those who love nature, enjoy a casual pace, and want a taste of local flavor in a scenic setting, this tour can truly enhance your Tenerife visit. Just remember to bring your sun protection, a towel, and an adventurous spirit—you’re all set for a memorable day on the Atlantic.

Overall, if you’re after a reasonably priced, authentic, and engaging sea adventure that combines wildlife, local food, and some beach fun, this tour from Puerto Colon is worth considering.