Tenerife: Respectful Whale Watching Pirate Cruise + Swim

Travelers seeking a sustainable, family-friendly adventure in Tenerife will find this whale watching tour particularly appealing. Aboard a charming pirate-style vessel, you’ll spend around two hours spotting whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat while learning from passionate guides. The focus on eco-responsibility and respectful wildlife observation makes it stand out amid the many tours available in the Canary Islands.

One of the highlights we love is the unique pirate ship vibe—it’s not just a boat, but an experience that feels adventurous and fun. Plus, the boat operates fully within legal and environmental guidelines, ensuring animals are left undisturbed. That said, this tour isn’t for thrill-seekers chasing after whales with loud engines or invasive techniques. It’s best suited for those who value ethical wildlife encounters and want to avoid the typical crowded, noisy tourist boats.

If you’re an nature lover, eager to see marine life in its purest form, and don’t mind a boat ride that might get a bit choppy, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments. Families with kids, eco-conscious travelers, and those looking for a laid-back, respectful experience will find this trip ticks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Legally Permitted & Eco-friendly: Operates under Blue Flag certification, ensuring responsible wildlife viewing.
• Respectful Approach: No chasing, feeding, or disturbing whales and dolphins; wildlife is observed from a respectful distance.
• Pirate Vessel: Adds a fun and adventurous vibe to the trip, making it more memorable.
• Expert Guides: Multilingual, passionate crew providing insightful commentary about marine species.
• Swim Stop Included: Opportunity to jump in the water at a scenic spot near Valley Cave.
• Great Value: Around 2 hours for just $18, with live guide commentary and on-board amenities.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and Preparation

Booking this tour is straightforward, with options for hotel pickup or meeting at a designated point in Playa de las Américas. The price point of approximately $18 per person offers excellent value considering the length of the trip, guided insights, and the chance to see whales and dolphins in the wild. It’s worth noting that the tour operates with a Blue Flag permit, a mark of responsible and legal whale watching, so you’re assured your wildlife encounters are sustainable and non-invasive.

Travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, sun protection, warm clothing, and clothes that can get splashed or dirty. The boat features toilets onboard, which is a nice touch for comfort during the 2-hour ride. If you’re prone to seasickness, taking tablets beforehand might be wise—several reviews noted that the waters can get choppy, especially if you’re sensitive.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with a warm welcome and a safety briefing from the crew, who are known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and multilingual. Once underway, the cruise takes you along scenic coastal zones for about 20 minutes, giving you a chance to settle into the pirate vibe and enjoy the views.

The core part of the trip, lasting up to 60 minutes, focuses on whale and dolphin spotting. The crew’s expertise shines here—they’ll point out all marine life and share interesting facts. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Cris for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. You might see playful dolphins, humpback breaches, or even baby whales (calves) nursing, as some travelers have described seeing families of pilot whales or bottlenose dolphins swimming close to the boat.

After the wildlife segment, the boat stops for a short swim or snorkel session near Valley Cave—an iconic spot with shimmery waters that makes for an unforgettable experience. The crew provides floats for kids and ensures safety measures are in place, making it accessible for families. The swim is brief but refreshing, allowing everyone to cool off after the wildlife viewing.

Finally, the return journey lasts about 10 minutes, giving space for Q&A, photos, and sharing tales of the day. Many reviews mention the crew’s ability to entertain and educate, making the whole ride not just a sightseeing trip but an opportunity to learn about the marine environment.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Respectful Observation

Unlike many commercial whale watching trips that rely on loud engines and aggressive tactics, this tour emphasizes minimal disturbance. The crew operates beyond three nautical miles, where marine animals tend to behave more naturally. This approach is appreciated by wildlife enthusiasts, as it aligns with conservation values and ensures animals are not stressed or chased, as some reviews highlighted.

Unique Pirate Ship Experience

Traveling on a classic pirate-style vessel adds an element of adventure that appeals to both kids and adults. It creates a playful, nostalgic atmosphere that makes the trip feel special—more than just a boat ride, it’s a chance to imagine yourself as a sailor in the Atlantic.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

Reviewers frequently mention guides like Cris and others, who are not only fluent in multiple languages but also eager to share their love of the ocean. They provide educational insights, pointing out species and explaining behaviors, which enhances the overall value.

Scenic Coastal Cruise and Swim Stop

The program balances wildlife sightings with a scenic cruise along Tenerife’s coast, offering beautiful views of the cliffs and coastline. The swim stop near Valley Cave is a highlight—an opportunity for a quick dip in crystal-clear waters, often described as both fun and relaxing.

Eco-Conscious Approach

Operating under a Blue Flag permit means the tour team is committed to environmentally responsible practices—limiting noise, waste, and interference. Many reviews praise this respectful attitude, which makes it appealing for eco-minded travelers.

What to Expect During the Tour

Starting with a safety briefing, the crew will set expectations and explain how to spot marine life. Once underway, the boat cruises along the coast, with the crew sharing stories and facts about the species you’re likely to see.

Depending on the season, sightings may include whales, dolphins, and even turtles, with many travelers excited to witness pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins swimming alongside or breaching close to the boat. The crew’s ability to locate wildlife relies on experience and patience, not intrusive tracking devices, which many reviewers appreciate.

The swimming stop is relatively brief but offers a chance to cool off and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Atlantic. The crew provides floats for children and offers safety instructions, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

On the return, there’s time for photos and questions, often with the crew sharing personal stories or fun facts. Many reviews mention how engaging and friendly the team is, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The Real Value for Travelers

For only around $18, this tour packs in a lot of value: wildlife viewing, scenic cruise, a swim stop, and expert guidance. It’s a budget-friendly option compared to more expensive tours that might chase or feed marine animals, often at the expense of their well-being.

The small group size and respectful approach mean you’ll likely have a more intimate experience—more time to take photos, watch marine mammals, or just enjoy the gentle rocking of the pirate ship. Plus, the inclusion of floats and the availability of on-board toilets add to the comfort.

Many reviewers emphasize the combination of fun and responsibility, with guides being informative without overwhelming or rushing guests. The emphasis on legal, eco-conscious operations ensures you’re supporting sustainable tourism, which is increasingly important in today’s environmentally aware travel scene.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with kids, as the boat’s friendly crew and the swimming stop make it fun and accessible. It also appeals to nature lovers who want authentic wildlife encounters without undue disturbance to the animals.

Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the Blue Flag certification and the respectful approach. If you’re after an adventure with a pirate twist, this tour offers a playful upgrade to the usual whale watching experience.

It’s less suited for travelers prone to seasickness or those using wheelchairs, as the tour might involve some choppiness and physical activity. However, for most, it’s a gentle, educational, and memorable outing.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife whale watching tour offers a cost-effective, ethical, and genuinely enjoyable** marine adventure. Traveling on a pirate-style ship adds a layer of fun, while the focus on sustainable practices and respectful wildlife observation makes it stand out among many commercial options. The knowledgeable guides, scenic cruise, and swim stop create a well-rounded experience that appeals to families, eco-minded travelers, and adventure-seekers alike.

If you’re keen to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment without disturbing them, and you want a trip that combines education with fun, this tour is a smart choice. It offers good value for money, friendly service, and the chance to witness some truly spectacular marine life in a responsible way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with floats provided for kids and a short, safe swimming stop. The pirate ship vibe and interactive guides make it especially appealing for children.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience runs for about 2 hours, including cruising, wildlife viewing, and the swim stop.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and clothes that can get splashed or muddy. Travel sickness tablets are recommended if you’re prone to seasickness.

Are there any language options?
Guides speak multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, and Italian, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your language.

Is the tour environmentally responsible?
Absolutely. It operates under Blue Flag certification, ensuring legal, sustainable, and non-invasive wildlife viewing practices.

Can I book hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup options are available from several locations, making the start of your adventure convenient. Alternatively, you can meet at the designated point in Playa de las Américas.

In summary, this respectful whale watching pirate cruise in Tenerife provides a memorable, eco-conscious way to connect with marine life while enjoying the fun and charm of a pirate vessel. It’s an experience that combines education, adventure, and sustainability—all in just a couple of hours.