Puerto del Carmen: Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Tour with Swim

Puerto del Carmen: Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Tour with Swim — A Deep Dive into Lanzarote’s Marine Life

Imagine zooming along Lanzarote’s southeastern coast on a fast boat, binoculars in hand, hoping to catch a glimpse of playful dolphins or majestic whales in their natural habitat. That’s exactly what this dolphin-watching speedboat tour offers — a quick, energetic, and often memorable adventure that combines wildlife spotting with a refreshing swim. Priced at around $40 per person for about 1.5 hours, it’s a reasonably priced way to add some marine magic to your Lanzarote trip.

One thing we love about this experience is the personalized approach of the crew, who are known for being friendly, accommodating, and multilingual — making it accessible for many travelers. Plus, the chance to see dolphins up close and even swim with the fish in the Atlantic waters makes it a compelling choice. However, it’s worth mentioning that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, which means patience and a bit of luck are part of the package. This tour is ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone eager for an active, marine-focused outing that’s more about the experience than certainty.

Key Points
– Wildlife sightings depend on nature: Dolphins, whales, and other marine life are in their natural environment, so sightings are not guaranteed but often happen.
– Great value for money: For about an hour and a half, you get a lively boat ride, wildlife viewing, and a swim — all at an accessible price point.
– Friendly, knowledgeable guides: Crews like those at Lanzarote Sea Tours are praised for their engaging commentary and multilingual skills.
– Stunning coastal views: The boat provides panoramic vistas of Lanzarote’s southeastern coast, making it visually rewarding regardless of wildlife sightings.
– Excellent for families: Safe, fun, and inclusive, with opportunities for kids to sit at the front and enjoy the ride.
– Wildlife encounters are unpredictable: While many travelers see dolphins, some, like Florence and Connor, may not, but the experience still offers plenty of fun and beautiful scenery.

An Honest Look at the Speedboat Tour Experience

This mini cruise begins at Lanzarote Sea Tours, conveniently located next to a petrol station and a roundabout in Puerto del Carmen. Jumping aboard the “Biosfera Jet”, a low, speedy vessel designed for close coastal views and quick maneuvering, you’re immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere created by the crew. Before departure, a brief safety talk sets expectations and gets everyone prepared for the fun ahead.

The core of this tour is the search for marine life. The crew, often led by guides like Elsa or other multilingual members, use binoculars and their seasoned eyes to spot dolphins, whales, and even turtles — as some reviews mention. Several guests, like Clare, recount how the crew “went above and beyond,” making a real effort to find dolphins, and lucky travelers have reported seeing pods swimming alongside the boat or even performing tricks, just a few meters from the vessel.

One of the highlights is the coastal scenery. As your boat whisks along the coast, you’ll see the rugged, volcanic landscape of Lanzarote from an entirely different perspective. The panoramic views are part of what makes this trip special — a quick, vibrant glimpse of the island’s southeastern shoreline.

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Wildlife Watching — The Heart of the Tour

The primary draw is the possibility of spotting dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Many visitors mention their surprise and delight when dolphins come close, often swimming alongside the boat or performing acrobatic flips. Emily, for example, describes witnessing dolphins “flopping out of the water and swimming so close to the boat for ages,” making it a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.

However, as Florence points out, “didn’t see any dolphins unfortunately,” which is a reminder that wildlife encounters are never guaranteed. Several reviews, including those from Colin and Jennifer, acknowledge this, noting that even without sightings, the trip offers excellent scenery and a relaxing boat ride.

Along With dolphins, some lucky travelers have reported spotting turtles and even a bride whale, emphasizing that while sightings depend on nature, the crew’s effort often results in memorable moments.

The Swim in the Atlantic

After the wildlife search, the boat anchors for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Many reviews highlight how this swim adds a special touch to the tour. Bianca-Maria mentions that while they didn’t see dolphins, “the swim was fabulous,” and the water was “refreshing,” even on a warmer day.

The swim is perfect for those who want to cool off after the boat ride or simply enjoy being in open water. Keep in mind, snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so bringing your own if you want to explore underwater is a good idea. This “free time” also allows guests to soak in the scenery or relax on the boat’s deck.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, with start times varying (check availability when booking). The meeting point is easy to find — right next to a petrol station in Puerto del Carmen, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Included in the price are the live commentary in multiple languages (Spanish, English, French), wildlife watching, and the swim. Extras like food, drinks, and snorkeling gear aren’t included, which is typical for this type of tour, so pack your own if needed. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not offered, so plan to meet directly at the meeting point.

The boat is described as comfortable and safe, with enough space for families and individuals. Notably, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers are advised to bring sunscreen, towels, weather-appropriate clothing, and comfortable footwear.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a mostly positive picture, especially praising the crew’s friendliness and their efforts to locate dolphins. Many highlight how close encounters with dolphins felt — the low boat design makes it easier to see marine life without feeling far away. For instance, Aisling shares that it’s “the closest I’ve ever been to dolphins in a boat,” describing the crew as “extremely friendly” and accommodating.

On the other hand, some guests, like Florence and Connor, note that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, which is a natural aspect of ocean excursions. Even those who didn’t see dolphins emphasize how enjoyable the trip was for the scenery and the chance to simply be out at sea.

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Is It Worth It?

At $40, this tour offers a decent value considering the unique opportunity to see marine animals and enjoy a scenic coastal ride. The inclusion of a swim makes it more than just a sightseeing cruise — it becomes a well-rounded, active experience. The fact that guides speak multiple languages and that the boat crew is noted for being friendly really enhances the overall experience.

This tour is especially worth considering if you’re traveling with kids or want a quick, fun outing with potential wildlife sightings. It’s not a guarantee of seeing dolphins, but the chances are high enough to keep many guests happy, and the swim at the end offers a satisfying conclusion.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy being on the water and are open to the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a quick, inexpensive marine adventure with chances for memorable encounters. If you’re seeking a relaxing, informative, and fun outing that combines scenery, wildlife, and a splash of adventure — this tour ticks those boxes.

However, those with mobility issues or seeking guaranteed dolphin sightings might want to explore other options or tours with more dedicated wildlife guarantees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including wildlife watching and swimming time.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Lanzarote Sea Tours, located next to a petrol station and a roundabout in Puerto del Carmen.

Is wildlife guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on wild animals in their natural habitat, so while many guests see dolphins, it’s not guaranteed.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included. Bring your own if desired.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
No, snorkelling gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater, bring your own.

Can I bring my family?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially for children who will enjoy the boat ride and the chance to see marine life.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention the boat is comfortable and safe, with ample space for guests.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, travelers need to meet at the designated location.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Wrapping It Up

This speedboat dolphin-watching tour in Lanzarote offers an exciting way to explore the island’s coastline, with the thrill of hopefully spotting dolphins or whales in their natural environment. The combination of a swift boat ride, a scenic view of Lanzarote’s coast, and a refreshing swim makes it a well-rounded outing for the budget-conscious and adventure-seekers alike.

The guides’ warmth, multilingual abilities, and the genuine effort to find wildlife elevate the experience beyond just a boat trip. While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, many travelers walk away with memorable moments and stories to tell. The price point, along with the scenic coastal views and the optional swim, makes this tour a practical choice that offers good value.

If you’re someone who loves the sea, appreciates nature, or is traveling with children, this tour could become one of your favorite Lanzarote memories. Just remember to pack sunscreen, a towel, and a sense of adventure — and enjoy the ride.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for those who want a lively, affordable marine experience with a good chance of seeing dolphins (or at least enjoying the boat ride and scenery). It’s less about guaranteed wildlife and more about the joy of being on the water and the possibility of a wildlife encounter that makes it special. For anyone eager to add a splash of oceanic excitement to their Lanzarote trip, this speedboat tour offers plenty of bang for your buck.

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