Whale watching

Whale Watching in Fuerteventura: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, the whale watching tour from Corralejo in Fuerteventura offers a promising adventure. As the island’s first dedicated whale watching company, Icenai aims to combine wildlife observation with responsible tourism. With a price of $88 per person and a typical 4-hour duration, this experience promises both fun and education — but it’s not without some quirks.

What we particularly appreciate is their commitment to conservation. This isn’t just a boat ride filled with superficial sightseeing; it’s geared toward protecting cetaceans and sharing knowledge about these fascinating creatures. On the flip side, a few reviews indicate that sightings can be unpredictable, and the overall experience might vary depending on luck and weather conditions. This tour is ideal for those who want a responsible, educational outing and are okay with the possibility of not always seeing whales or dolphins.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply want a relaxing day on the water, this tour has enough to offer. Let’s explore what makes this trip stand out, and where it might fall short.

Key Points

• Responsible Wildlife Viewing: The tour emphasizes cetacean conservation and eco-friendly practices.
• Variety of Marine Life: Expect to see dolphins, pilot whales, and possibly even fin whales.
• Educational Focus: Guides provide information on cetacean behavior and marine ecosystems.
• Variable Sightings: Watching whales depends heavily on natural conditions; sightings are not guaranteed.
• Convenient Location: Starts and ends at Bar La Lonja in Corralejo, a straightforward meeting point.
• Food and Drinks Included: Snacks and beverages are provided during the trip.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it open to more travelers.
• Mixed Reviews: Experiences vary from highly enjoyable to disappointing, mainly due to wildlife activity.

An In-Depth Look at the Whale Watching Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins conveniently at Bar La Lonja, located on Corralejo’s pier. This spot is easy to find — just a single bar on the waterfront. The departure time is generally around 9:00 a.m., with the tour lasting approximately 4 hours. This timing is good for avoiding the midday heat and maximizing the chances of wildlife sightings early in the day.

The Boat and Onboard Experience

Reviews mention that the boat itself might not always be the newest, with some describing it as “old” and “worn-out”. While the vessel’s age could be a concern for comfort, it’s worth noting that the focus remains on the experience outside rather than onboard luxury. During the trip, you’ll be on deck, looking out over the water with plenty of space for relaxing or taking photos.

Snacks and drinks are included, which is a thoughtful touch, especially after a 90-minute cruise out to sea. Some travelers, however, found the snacks to be quite basic — a dry biscuit and water — so if you’re expecting a gourmet experience, you might want to bring some extra provisions.

The Marine Environment and Wildlife

Fuerteventura’s waters are part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting the island’s commitment to sustainable marine tourism. The water here is crystal clear, and the nutrient-rich environment supports over 25 cetacean species throughout the year.

The trip is particularly tailored to spotting dolphins, pilot whales, and sometimes larger whales like fin whales. The guide will give a talk about cetaceans, explaining their behavior and habitat, which adds an educational layer to the excursion. However, it’s important to understand that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed — nature can be unpredictable, and the success of spotting animals depends on factors like weather, sea conditions, and animal movements.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler from the UK recalled their experience as “lovely,” especially after seeing a huge pod of dolphins that played around the boat for about 40 minutes. Conversely, a Dutch traveler was disappointed to see no animals at all and described the boat as “old” with “dry” snacks, noting that the tour felt more like a boat ride than a wildlife expedition.

A common theme from reviews is “the guides are knowledgeable” — a detail that really enhances the experience. Even if sightings are sparse, knowing you’re with someone who understands marine life makes the trip more engaging. The reviews also mention that if you don’t see anything on one day, you’re allowed to join a different day — which offers some reassurance.

Sightings and the Overall Experience

While some travelers have had exceptional encounters, others left less satisfied due to a lack of visible animals. This variability is typical of wildlife tours but worth considering when booking. Early mornings tend to be the best time for sightings, but luck plays a significant role.

Cost and Value

At $88 per person, this tour is priced competitively compared to other marine excursions in the area. The inclusion of snacks and drinks contributes to the overall value, especially since many similar tours charge extra for such amenities. However, if your primary goal is guaranteed sightings, it’s worth noting that wildlife can be elusive, and the experience hinges on natural activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This whale watching adventure works best for families, wildlife lovers, and eco-conscious travelers. It’s suitable for those who appreciate the idea of responsible tourism and don’t mind the possibility of a quiet day at sea. Also, the accessibility feature broadens its appeal to a wider audience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This whale watching tour in Fuerteventura offers a responsible, educational, and scenic experience. You’ll enjoy the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment, learn about marine life from knowledgeable guides, and relax on a boat with snacks and drinks in hand. However, the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and the sometimes older boat may be drawbacks for some.

For travelers seeking a cost-effective and eco-focused adventure, this tour provides solid value, especially if you’re flexible with the expectations around animal sightings. The emphasis on conservation and education makes it a more meaningful experience than a simple sightseeing cruise. If you’re prepared for the possibility of quiet days at sea and appreciate authentic, responsible tourism, this trip could be just right.

On the other hand, if seeing whales and dolphins is your top priority, you might want to consider multiple tours or look at options with higher chances of guaranteed sightings — though they may come at a higher price.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for a broader range of travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The excursion lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 9:00 a.m.

What is included in the price?
Snacks and drinks are included in the ticket price, making for a more comfortable experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Bar La Lonja on the pier in Corralejo — easy to find with just one bar on the waterfront.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally family-friendly and accessible, but it’s always good to confirm for very young children or specific needs.

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

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

Is there a chance I won’t see any whales or dolphins?
Yes, wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions; some days might be quieter than others.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, camera, and perhaps a light jacket, especially if you tend to get cold on boats.

Final Verdict

This whale watching experience in Fuerteventura offers a responsible and educational approach to marine wildlife tourism. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the knowledgeable guides and commitment to conservation make it a worthwhile activity for those who value authenticity and eco-awareness. It’s best suited for travelers who are flexible, eager to learn, and enjoy relaxing boat rides amidst beautiful ocean scenery. If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing that balances fun with responsibility, this tour is a solid choice.