Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop

Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop — A Deep Dive into the Experience

Taking to the waters off Tenerife with the Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht Tour promises a blend of wildlife sightings, scenic coastlines, and a chance to cool off with an ocean swim—all wrapped up in a package that emphasizes environmental respect. With a rating of 4.5 from over 1,200 reviews and a price tag of just around $24, this tour offers impressive value for travelers eager for an authentic marine adventure.

What we really love about this trip? It combines the thrill of spotting whales and dolphins with the luxury of a small group that ensures everyone gets a good view. Plus, the eco-friendly design of the boat—built in 2018 with protected propellers and a Blue Flag certification—means you’re enjoying nature responsibly. On the flip side, potential travelers should consider how sea conditions might impact the experience, especially if they’re prone to seasickness.

This tour suits those who love wildlife, scenic coastal drives, and quick ocean swims. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly but meaningful excursion that emphasizes sustainability and respect for marine life.

Key Points

• Eco-Responsible Ship: The boat is built to minimize environmental impact, with features like protected propellers and Blue Flag certification.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see whales, dolphins, and possibly turtles, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights into their behavior.
• Swim Stop: Enjoy a refreshing break for swimming and snorkeling, with your own gear encouraged for the best experience.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 20 travelers, you’ll get a more intimate experience and better chances for sightings.
• Flexible Rescheduling: If no whales or dolphins are seen, there’s a free option to reschedule—giving peace of mind.
• Affordable Price: At under $25, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the chance to see marine life up close.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Marine Adventure

Departure from Los Cristianos

The tour starts at Calle Espigón del Benchijigua in Los Cristianos, a convenient spot accessible by public transport or private transfer. Make sure to arrive at least 20 minutes early to check in and get ready—miss the cutoff by five minutes, and you’ll have to forfeit your spot.

The Voyage Begins: Scenic Coastal Cruising

Departing from the port, you’ll cruise along Tenerife’s southwestern coastline, which is a stunning stretch filled with dramatic cliffs and hidden caves. One highlight is passing the famous cave of “love”, which has garnered attention for its romantic and mysterious allure.

Wildlife Spotting: Whales, Dolphins, and Seabirds

The main allure of this trip is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Several reviews mention seeing pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and even turtles. An enthusiastic crew, including guides like Carlos, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making sightings more exciting and informative.

One reviewer, Lee_B, highlighted that “we got to see numerous pilot whales and turtles,” emphasizing the trip’s success. However, some travelers like SwarnimaSingh had a less ideal experience, citing unprofessional conduct and poor handling, especially for pregnant guests. So, while most guides are attentive, keep an eye on how your crew interacts—they make a big difference.

The Swim Stop: A Moment of Relaxation

After some wildlife spotting, you’ll get the chance to jump into the ocean for a swim or snorkel (bring your own equipment). The boat’s stern area is designed for easy access, allowing you to cool off in Tenerife’s clear waters. Several reviews mention the enjoyment of this break, with travelers noting how refreshing and fun it is to dip into the Atlantic after spotting marine life.

Additional Highlights

Some tours include passing by beautiful coastal formations and exploring caves, like the “love” cave, which adds a scenic and slightly mysterious touch to the journey. The bar onboard keeps drinks flowing—sodas, beers, and snacks are available for purchase, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Return to Port

The trip wraps up after about 1 hour 40 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and swim without feeling rushed. The boat returns to Los Cristianos, with some reviewers mentioning the ease of transport to the meeting point and the smooth sailing experience.

What the Reviews Reveal: Authentic Insights

The majority of reviews are glowing, with many praising the value for money and the staff’s friendliness. Lee_B called it “an absolute bargain,” highlighting the close encounters with whales and turtles. Many appreciated the small group size, which made spotting and photographing animals easier and more enjoyable.

However, not all reviews are perfect. Some travelers reported rough seas, especially those who experienced choppy conditions, with mentions of nausea and discomfort. Ian_K described the experience as “horrendous”, citing waves that made the boat feel like a roller coaster, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re seasick or worried about safety.

Another aspect that stood out was the professionalism of the crew. Several reviews praised guides like Carlos for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the trip both fun and educational. Others, however, expressed disappointment in unprofessional behavior or lack of transparency, especially regarding weather conditions and safety warnings.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The eco-conscious design really shines through. The vessel’s protected propellers and Blue Flag certification emphasize a commitment to sustainability, which is crucial given the sensitive marine environment. Travelers who are environmentally minded will appreciate this effort.

Some reviews also mentioned free rescheduling if marine life isn’t seen, reducing the pressure and making this experience more risk-free compared to other tours. Safety is further reinforced by the small group size and timely boarding requirements.

Analyzing the Value: Does It Live Up to the Price?

At just around $23.70 per person, this tour offers excellent bang for your buck. For that price, you get the chance to spot multiple species of whales and dolphins, a swim stop, and the comfort of a modern, eco-friendly vessel. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for better wildlife viewing and interaction with guides.

Additional perks like free rescheduling if no sightings occur** and onboard amenities** (like a bar and toilet) make it even more appealing. While snacks and snorkel gear aren’t included, bringing your own allows for a customized experience without extra costs.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts eager to observe marine mammals in their natural environment. It’s especially suitable for families or small groups because of the intimate atmosphere and affordable price.

Those with a moderate tolerance for sea conditions will have the best time, although travelers prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly or consider the choppy sea warnings. If you’re looking for a responsible tourism experience, the eco-friendly focus makes this trip stand out.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For the price, this tour delivers a combination of wildlife, scenic views, and ocean fun that’s hard to beat in Tenerife. The chance to see whales, dolphins, and turtles up close—plus the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic—makes it a memorable outing for all ages.

The small group size and sustainable approach elevate it from just another boat trip to a more respectful and educational experience. The enthusiastic guides and beautiful coastline make this a worthwhile option, especially if you’re hoping for authentic wildlife sightings rather than a generic cruise.

However, be mindful of the weather forecast—rough seas can diminish the fun, and some reviews warn about discomfort on choppy days. But with flexible rescheduling options and the overall positive feedback, this tour remains a compelling choice for anyone visiting Tenerife.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The trip is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, offering enough time for wildlife viewing, the swim stop, and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
You get a boat trip with a guide, a public toilet onboard, free rescheduling if no marine life is seen, and time for swimming and snorkel (bring your own gear). Drinks are available for purchase.

Is the boat eco-friendly?
Yes, the vessel was built in 2018 with protected propellers and has Blue Flag certification, emphasizing environmental responsibility.

What are the safety measures?
The boat is designed with low gravity centers to reduce dizziness, and the trip adheres to regulations that ensure safe operation. Early boarding is required for safety and operational reasons.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
Most reviews report sighting pilot whales, dolphins, and turtles. Sightings depend on weather and luck, but the crew’s expertise increases the chances.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sun protection, and your own snorkel equipment if you want to snorkel. Water and snacks can be bought onboard, but bringing your own might be more economical.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour does require guests to arrive 20 minutes early. Service animals are permitted.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather prevents safe operation, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a reschedule. Severe weather can also impact the likelihood of sightings.

In summary, if you’re seeking a compact, eco-conscious wildlife tour with the possibility of seeing whales, dolphins, and turtles in Tenerife, this experience from Travelin’ Lady is a solid pick. It combines value, responsible tourism, and scenic adventure—perfect for adding a memorable chapter to your Tenerife trip.