Royal Dolphin Whale watching excursion

Royal Dolphin Whale Watching Excursion in Tenerife: A Balanced Look at Marine Encounters

If you’re heading to Tenerife and eager to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, the Royal Dolphin Whale Watching excursion offers a promising option. Priced at around $34.69 per person, this tour runs roughly two hours and features specially designed boats with underwater viewing windows and on-deck live streams. It’s an accessible choice for wildlife lovers and families alike, especially considering its proximity to popular spots like Puerto Colon.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to view marine creatures in their natural environment through the boat’s innovative underwater windows—something that adds a layer of excitement compared to traditional boat trips. Plus, with the option to upgrade to a longer three-hour tour that includes lunch, drinks, and an aperitif, it caters to those wanting a more relaxed, all-inclusive day at sea.

A potential consideration is the variability in wildlife sightings, which can depend heavily on weather and season. Some guests have enjoyed plentiful dolphin and whale sightings, while others experienced less luck or found the boat overcrowded, making it harder to get the perfect photo. This tour suits travelers who prioritize affordable, authentic wildlife encounters and don’t mind the chance element inherent in nature tours.

Key Points
– Affordable Price: Around $34.69 per person for roughly two hours of marine adventure.
– Wildlife Viewing: Underwater windows and live deck-stream enhance the chances of spotting dolphins and whales.
– Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help identify animals and share insights.
– Upgrade Options: Longer tours with meals and drinks available for a more leisurely experience.
– Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, maintaining a somewhat intimate atmosphere.
– Logistics: Central meeting point with no included pick-up; be prepared to meet at the dock.

Setting Sail in Tenerife: What to Expect

The journey begins at the Royal Delfin Catamaran dock in Puerto Colón, a bustling area close to Playa de la Américas. The boat itself is designed with marine observation in mind—large windows beneath the waterline ensure that even if the weather isn’t perfect, you’ll still get a glimpse of the fascinating creatures beneath the surface. Expect an intimate group of around 20 people, which balances camaraderie with space for everyone to enjoy the views.

The two-hour tour includes insurance and a professional crew dedicated to wildlife spotting. If you opt for the three-hour version, the experience becomes more indulgent, with the added perks of appetizers, drinks, and lunch, all while cruising along Tenerife’s scenic southern coast.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Departure and First Views

Once aboard, you’ll notice that the boat’s design prioritizes wildlife observation. The large viewing windows underwater are a highlight—they allow you to see dolphins and whales without even leaving your seat. As the vessel departs from Puerto Colon, guides—typically knowledgeable and friendly—start sharing tips on spotting marine life, making the experience both educational and fun.

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

While the primary goal is to see dolphins and whales, the actual sightings can depend on the day’s conditions. Some reviewers, like Tedi Gancheva, found the experience to be delivering on its promises, with sightings of both dolphins and whales from the deck and through the glass bottom. However, they also mentioned that overcrowding made it challenging to find a good spot for photos, so if capturing memories is important, arriving early might be wise.

The Overcrowding Issue

One of the more common critiques involves the boat’s crowd size. With a maximum of 20 travelers, some felt that on busy days, it was tricky to get close to the windows or find an ideal viewing position. Despite this, guides appeared knowledgeable and eager to help identify animals and point out interesting behaviors.

Meal and Drinks (Optional)

For the longer 3-hour tour, guests can indulge in lunch and drinks, turning the outing into a more relaxed social event. Reviewers have appreciated the delicious food and tapas offered, describing the meal as a highlight. The inclusion of an aperitif and drinks adds to the value, especially for those wanting to lounge and enjoy the scenery without rushing.

The Experience and Authenticity

What sets this tour apart from many mass-market cruises is the focus on genuine wildlife encounters. Unlike some tours that might prioritize sightseeing for the sake of a quick photo, guides actively help spot animals and share interesting facts. As Viajero_p notes, the tour was “todo perfecto,” despite some small discomforts like the choppy sea causing mild seasickness—so bringing motion sickness medication is advisable if you’re prone.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At just under $35, this tour offers good value for those eager to see dolphins and whales without splurging on luxury cruises. The two-hour version is budget-friendly and suitable for travelers short on time, while the longer option enhances the experience with food and drinks. The inclusion of professional guides and advanced viewing windows enhances the likelihood of memorable sightings, making it a sensible investment for wildlife enthusiasts.

Practical Tips for a Better Experience

• Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during busy seasons.
• Bring sunscreen, hat, towel, and swimsuit—the weather can be sunny and breezy.
• If prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness tablets beforehand, as some guests experienced mild nausea on choppier days.
• No transportation is included, so plan your transfer to the meeting point accordingly.
• The tour does not include pickup, so coordinate your arrival at the dock in advance.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

The tour’s guides have generally been praised for their knowledgeability—which is crucial when trying to identify elusive marine mammals. Despite some frustrations with crowding, many guests appreciated the opportunities to see dolphins and whales up close, often from multiple vantage points, including underwater windows and deck viewings.

One reviewer, Claire I, had a less-than-ideal experience due to booking confusion, but this seems to be an isolated incident rather than reflective of the tour’s overall quality. Meanwhile, others enjoyed the “perfect” experience, citing good value and engaging guides.

This whale and dolphin watching cruise is perfect for families, budget travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts** seeking an authentic, affordable experience. It’s especially suited to those who want to maximize their chances of sightings via underwater windows and enjoy the scenic coastal views of Tenerife. The option to upgrade to a longer trip with lunch and drinks makes it ideal for a relaxed day at sea, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a break from the beaches.

However, if you’re highly particular about photo opportunities or prefer a more intimate, less crowded experience, arriving early or considering alternative tours might be worthwhile.

The Royal Dolphin Whale Watching Excursion offers a good combination of value, fun, and wildlife authenticity. The boat’s innovative design with underwater windows is a real plus, giving you a better chance at seeing dolphins and whales in their habitat. While the experience can be affected by weather and crowd levels, guides are generally knowledgeable and eager to share insights, adding educational value.

For those on a budget or seeking a straightforward, decent chance to spot marine life in Tenerife, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy casual outings that combine scenic cruising with the thrill of wildlife encounters. The optional longer tour with food and drinks makes it a flexible option for varied preferences.

In all, this excursion provides a balanced, enjoyable way to experience Tenerife’s marine wonders without breaking the bank—a worthwhile choice for wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike.

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts approximately two hours, with an optional three-hour version that includes lunch and drinks.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Royal Delfin Catamaran dock in Calle Colon, Puerto Colón, Playa de la Américas.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour does not include pick-up service; you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication.

Will I see dolphins and whales?
While sightings depend on weather and luck, reviews indicate many guests do see dolphins and whales from both the deck and underwater windows.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, the Royal Dolphin Whale Watching excursion is a solid choice for those wanting an affordable, authentic marine wildlife experience with the added excitement of underwater viewing. With knowledgeable guides and options to extend the trip, it offers good value and memorable moments—ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.