Tenerife: 3 &-6 Hour Private Whale & Dolphin Watching

Exploring Tenerife’s waters on a private boat tour offers an intimate and flexible way to encounter its vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for a relaxed day under the sun, or a group of friends celebrating a special occasion, this 6-hour sailing adventure promises fantastic sightings of dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, paired with comfort and fun.

What makes this experience stand out is the promise of close encounters with nature—thanks to a smaller, private group and expert guides. Plus, the inclusion of free food and drinks ensures you stay refreshed while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. On the flip side, it’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness, given the open water conditions.
This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences, love wildlife viewing, and don’t mind a bit of time on the water. It also offers great value for those who want a full day of marine adventure without the crowds.

Key Points

• Private group intimacy means better viewing and personalized attention from the captain.
• Close wildlife encounters with whales, dolphins, and sea turtles are a highlight, often described as magical.
• Luxury sailing yacht provides comfort and style, making the trip feel more like a treat than just a tour.
• Inclusive food and drinks add to the relaxed vibe, with plenty of snacks, beverages, and even champagne for celebrations.
• Informative guides who speak multiple languages enhance the experience, sharing insights and making everyone feel at home.
• Ideal for families, groups, or special occasions; perfect for those who want an authentic and memorable marine adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Private Whale & Dolphin Tour

Setting Off from Puerto Colon Marina

The adventure begins at Puerto Colon, one of Tenerife’s most charming marinas. Arriving at dock number 4, you’ll find the luxury vessel “Gran Azor” waiting, ready to whisk you away into the calm, inviting waters of the south coast. The boat’s sleek appearance and spacious decks immediately set a tone of comfort and style. We loved how the yacht’s atmosphere was relaxed yet professional, making it clear this isn’t just any boat ride — it’s a thoughtfully curated experience.

The Vessel: Luxury Sailing Yacht “Gran Azor”

This isn’t your average boat. The “Gran Azor” is described as a luxury sailing yacht, offering both sailing and motor options to navigate Tenerife’s waters smoothly. Space for up to 9 guests means you’re never crowded, which is noteworthy compared to larger group tours. The vessel’s stability and cozy deck areas make it ideal for lounging, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking up the sun.

The Captain and Guides: Knowledgeable and Multilingual

Captain Pedro (from a review) is singled out for his excellent service and friendly demeanor. He keeps the atmosphere light and fun, even in the more relaxed moments like when he turns off the engine to listen to whales or explains the marine environment with enthusiasm. Guides speak several languages—including English, Spanish, Russian, and Polish—which broadens accessibility and helps everyone feel included, regardless of language.

The Marine Encounters: Whales, Dolphins, and Turtles

This tour’s main draw is the chance to see whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Guests have reported sightings of pilot whales close enough to touch, with some only a meter away from the boat, creating unforgettable moments. As one reviewer enthusiastically described, “We watched 2 pilot whales chilling out only a metre away from us,” and the captain cut the engine so everyone could listen to the spouting water — truly magical.

The trip is designed to maximize wildlife sightings, with many guests describing the experience as “spectacular.” The sonar system, which is used to listen to whale and dolphin sounds, adds an extra layer of excitement and immersion, allowing passengers to hear these creatures communicating beneath the waves.

Snorkeling and Swimming

For those who want to get even closer to the marine environment, there’s the option to jump into the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling. The vessel provides snorkel equipment so guests can explore the underwater world at their leisure. This part of the tour is highly valued; one reviewer mentions a “dip” that added a fun and refreshing element to the day.

Food and Drinks: A Relaxed Feast at Sea

One of the standout features of this tour is the complimentary food and beverages. Guests consistently praise the generous selection of snacks, drinks, and even champagne, which make the trip feel even more luxurious. The onboard catering is described as “really a lot and very good,” adding to the feeling of splurging while still being affordable.

Snacks like tapas, drinks, and the option to toast with champagne make this a perfect celebration vessel—whether for birthday, anniversary, or just a special day out. You won’t need to worry about bringing your own snacks unless you want something specific, as the onboard service takes care of all.

The Scenic Route: Cruising Tenerife’s Southern Coast

Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Tenerife’s coastline as you move in and out of Puerto Colon Marina. The calm, warm waters provide ideal conditions for wildlife spotting, and the scenery is stunning—think rugged cliffs, lush green hills, and occasional volcanic landscapes.

One reviewer mentioned that the other half of their trip was a “coast-tour,” which they enjoyed enormously. It’s a nice way to see Tenerife from a different perspective — relaxed, scenic, and filled with wildlife surprises.

Experience Duration and Flexibility

Available in 3 or 6-hour options, this tour’s length allows for flexibility depending on your schedule and interests. The 6-hour version offers more time for snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and soaking up the sun, while the 3-hour option is perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of marine life.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand. Payments are also flexible — book now and pay later, giving you peace of mind when planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, groups of friends, or couples celebrating a special occasion. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate smaller groups for a more personalized experience, and for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with the comfort of a luxury yacht. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, it might be worth considering whether this open water trip is suitable for you.

The Authenticity of the Reviews

Many guests have raved about the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed yet professional atmosphere. One particularly memorable review described a birthday celebration onboard with champagne, cake, and whales only a meter away, highlighting how personal and special this experience can be. Another guest appreciated the close-up whale sightings, mentioning they saw pilot whales “chilling out” close to the boat, with the captain turning off the engine to listen to the sounds — a true highlight.

Guests also emphasize the value for money — with food, drinks, and snorkeling gear included, the cost of $1,059 per group covers a full day of adventure, wildlife, and comfort. The small group size makes it a more intimate experience, avoiding the sometimes overwhelming crowds of larger tours.

The Sum Up

This private whale and dolphin watching tour in Tenerife offers a rare blend of comfort, personalization, and authentic wildlife encounters. With expert guides, a luxury yacht, and plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, it’s a versatile choice for those looking to experience the Canary Islands’ marine splendor in style.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value quality over quantity, appreciate smaller groups for better viewing, and want a day filled with memorable moments—not just sightseeing but truly connecting with nature. The inclusive food and drinks, the chance to listen to whale sounds, and the close wildlife encounters make this a standout option for a special day at sea.

If you’re after a laid-back, personalized adventure with plenty of chances to see Tenerife’s iconic marine life, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember, seasickness might be a concern, so prepare accordingly.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private group experience, with a maximum of 9 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

What is included in the price?
All food, drinks, and snorkel equipment are included, making it a comprehensive package without hidden costs.

How long is the tour?
You can choose between a 3-hour or a 6-hour experience, providing flexibility based on your schedule and interests.

Are there opportunities for swimming or snorkeling?
Absolutely. Guests can jump overboard to swim or snorkel in the clear waters, and snorkel gear is provided.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Guests frequently spot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Some guests have seen pilot whales very close to the boat, creating unforgettable moments.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a great option for families, especially those wanting a relaxed day of wildlife viewing in comfort.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the trip.

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

Is this tour suitable for those prone to seasickness?
It might not be ideal, as the trip takes place on open waters, and some seasickness could occur.

How do I prepare for wildlife sightings?
Bring your camera and binoculars if you have them, and be ready for moments that happen quickly — wildlife can be unpredictable!

This private sailing adventure combines comfort, great value, and the chance to experience Tenerife’s marine life in a way that’s both authentic and personalized. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable day at sea, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want more than just a boat ride — they want an experience to remember.