Whale watching and snorkelling in the whale sanctuary

If you’re heading to Tenerife and looking for a memorable marine adventure, a whale watching and snorkeling tour in the designated whale sanctuary offers just that. This 3-hour excursion combines the thrill of spotting dolphins and pilot whales with a relaxing swim in crystal-clear waters—plus, a dash of local education and delicious food thrown in. From the moment you set sail, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, with plenty of opportunities to connect with wildlife and enjoy Tenerife’s spectacular coastline.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances a fun, family-friendly activity with educational insights. The captain’s detailed explanations on cetaceans, volcanology, and meteorology add depth to the experience, making it more than just a boat trip. A potential caveat is that the tour relies heavily on good weather conditions, so if the ocean’s choppier than usual, the schedule might be affected. Still, this tour appeals most to those eager to see marine life up close while enjoying a laid-back, informative cruise—perfect for families, wildlife lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of Tenerife’s marine environment.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, pilot whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
• Educational Value: Learn about cetaceans, volcanology, and local history from the knowledgeable captain.
• Comfort and Convenience: Small group sizes (max 11 travelers) and a comfortable vessel enhance the experience.
• Included Food & Drinks: Enjoy sandwiches, typical drinks, and alcoholic beverages during the stop.
• Snorkelling Opportunity: Swim and snorkel at Agua Dulce cove with all necessary gear provided.
• Value for Money: At around $75 per person, it offers an engaging marine adventure with food, drinks, and expert guidance.

Heading into this three-hour boat trip, you’ll immediately notice how well-organized and intimate the experience feels. The meeting point at Playa San Juan’s fishing port is easy to find, and the boat, operated by SEA PASSION CHARTER FISHING, is described as highly comfortable—an important factor when spending hours on the water. With a maximum of 11 travelers, the small-group setting ensures personalized attention and less crowded viewing opportunities.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure and Initial Search
The adventure begins around 2:30 pm, with the vessel heading about 5 km south of La Gomera, into waters approximately a kilometer deep. This depth is perfect for spotting resident pilot whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures. The captain, whose detailed commentary is highly praised, will guide you through the various depth levels, explaining the science behind the species and their behaviors. As one reviewer noted, “We saw Grindwale and dolphins and observed them with respectful distance in peace,” highlighting how the captain’s approach fosters respectful wildlife watching.

Cliffs of Isorana and Agua Dulce
After the initial wildlife hunt, the boat skirts along the stunning Isorana cliffs, a dramatic coastline that offers impressive views and a sense of rugged wilderness. The highlight comes when the vessel reaches Agua Dulce cove, where you’ll have the chance to swim, snorkel, and explore marine life just beneath the surface. The snorkel gear is included, and the calm waters make for easy swimming—ideal if you’re a beginner or just want a relaxing float.

Learning and Tasting
While anchored at Agua Dulce, the captain will share insights on volcanology, meteorology, and the area’s history, enriching your understanding of Tenerife’s geological and cultural backdrop. Plus, practical tips and interesting facts about cetaceans keep the experience engaging. During this stop, the crew provides sandwiches and typical drinks, giving you a chance to refuel and enjoy the scenery. Many reviews mention the delicious food, often described as simple but tasty, with some reviewers noting it as a highlight.

Return Along the Coastline
As the tour winds down, you’ll cruise along the coastline toward Playa San Juan’s fishing port, soaking in the scenic views. The entire trip lasts around three hours, a duration that feels just right—long enough to see wildlife and explore, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiresome.

Wildlife Watching
The positive reviews consistently highlight the quality of wildlife sightings. Julia_K from Germany shared, “We saw Grindwale and dolphins and observed them with respectful distance in peace,” illustrating how well the captain manages to get close enough for excellent views without disturbing the animals. The chance to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment is a major draw, especially given the tour’s location in the whale sanctuary.

Educational Content
The captain’s detailed explanations elevate the experience from a simple cruise to an educational adventure. You’ll learn about the species you’re viewing, their behaviors, and the significance of the whale sanctuary, which is crucial for conservation efforts. Reviewers appreciated the knowledge shared, noting how it added context and depth to the wildlife encounters.

Comfort and Small Group Feel
With a maximum of 11 travelers, you’ll find that the experience is personal and relaxed. This small size allows the crew to focus more on individual interests and ensures everyone gets ample opportunity for photos and close-up views.

Food and Drinks
Unlike many similar excursions, this tour includes sandwiches and local drinks—an unexpectedly valuable addition, especially after swimming or snorkeling. Reviewers have praised the quality and simplicity of the snacks, noting they enhance the overall value of the tour.

Pricing
At roughly $75 per person, the tour offers a good value considering the inclusions—guidance, food, drinks, snorkel gear, and wildlife sightings. It’s a well-rounded package for those wanting a focused, immersive experience rather than an all-day extravaganza.

Timing and Weather
Scheduled to start at 2:30 pm, the timing allows for daylight and calmer seas, but it also means you should be prepared for possible weather changes. The tour’s policy on weather cancellations is straightforward—if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or can reschedule.

Group Size and Accessibility
The intimate group setting makes for a comfortable and engaging experience, suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. Service animals are allowed, adding to accessibility considerations.

This trip suits travelers who are genuinely interested in marine life and nature, especially those keen to observe dolphins and pilot whales responsibly. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a combination of wildlife, education, and local culture—with the added bonus of snorkeling and tasting local flavors. If you prefer larger groups or more opulent excursions, you might find this more laid-back and authentic experience a refreshing change.

This whale watching and snorkeling tour in Tenerife delivers an impressive balance of wildlife viewing, educational insights, and leisure. The small-group setup ensures a personal experience, and the knowledgeable captain makes the marine environment come alive. From the chance to see dolphins and pilot whales to snorkeling in tranquil waters and learning about the islands’ natural history, it ticks many boxes for a memorable afternoon at sea.

The inclusion of food and drinks, along with the opportunity to swim and snorkel, enhances its value. While weather conditions can influence the schedule, the overall experience is praised by travelers as well-organized, informative, and enjoyable. It’s most suited for those who love nature, want a respectful wildlife encounter, and enjoy sharing these moments in a relaxed setting.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking educational fun, or a couple wanting a scenic, engaging outing, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment while enjoying some well-earned leisure time.

• What is the start time of the tour? The tour begins at 2:30 pm, giving plenty of daylight for wildlife spotting and snorkeling.
• How long does the tour last? Approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.
• What is included in the price? Guide for whale watching, sandwiches, typical drinks, and snorkel gear.
• Are tips included? No, tips are not included and are at your discretion.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate; small group size and calm waters are family-friendly.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Can service animals join? Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.
• Is the tour eco-friendly? The captain’s respectful approach to wildlife suggests a responsible, eco-conscious ethos.

In essence, this Tenerife whale watching and snorkeling tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife, education, and leisure, perfect for travelers eager to explore the island’s marine treasures in an intimate, authentic setting.