Whales off Tenerife sounds unreal, until you’re on the water. This cruise runs on a traditional wooden Shogun schooner out of Puerto Colón and aims for respectful whale and dolphin watching close to home. I especially liked the friendly, multilingual crew and the simple rhythm of sailing, spotting wildlife, and then having time to swim. The one drawback to plan around: sightings aren’t guaranteed, so go in with patience and a flexible mindset.

You’ll head out from Colon Harbour (pier #14, next to the petrol station) on a small-feeling boat, then cruise along the southern coast looking for pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The operator holds a Blue Flag legal whale-watching permit, and the crew follows local sustainability guidelines so you get the best chance without harassing the animals.

The trip is designed for people who want a relaxed sea day, but it’s not set up for everyone. It isn’t suitable for mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and the swim stop depends on weather and sea conditions.

Key things to know before you go

• Shogun wooden boat feel: Traditional, open-deck sailing plus toilets on board
• Legal, sustainability-focused watch: Blue Flag permit and a calm, respectful approach
• Pilot whales and dolphin families are common: Plus occasional extras like flying fish or sea turtles
• Swim stop is real, but timed by conditions: Typically 15–20 minutes when the captain says it’s safe
• Good value for the price: Reviews highlight it as an inexpensive way to get the same basic experience
• Multilingual guide support: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian

Boarding the Shogun at Colon Harbour, Pier 14

This starts in Puerto Colón (Costa Adeje), at Colon Harbour. Look for the meeting point: BARCO SHOGUN at pier number 14, next to the petrol station. If you’re driving, do yourself a favor and arrive early enough to park, walk the pier, and still feel un-rushed before boarding.

The boat is described as an oriental schooner, and that matters more than you might think. A wooden, traditional boat usually feels calmer and more personal than the big modern boats, and the experience is built around being out on the Atlantic rather than racing from one spot to another.

You’ll also want to know what’s not included on board. Snorkel equipment and towels are not provided, so if you want full swim comfort, bring your own towel and swimwear. Toilets are on board, which is a practical bonus when you’re out at sea.

What the sailing is like on the Atlantic side of Tenerife

Once you’re cruising, you’ll understand why people keep coming back. The main “activity” isn’t a scripted show—it’s the sea itself: ocean breeze, wide views of Tenerife’s southern coastline, and plenty of deck time.

One review notes music on board, and that matches the general vibe: this is meant to feel like a relaxed outing, not a tense wildlife hunt. On deck, you can take in the coastal panorama while the crew watches for signs of marine life. If you’re the type who likes nature without a lot of fuss, this format fits well.

Also, keep expectations realistic. The sea is not a zoo. Even with a good crew and a legal operating permit, wildlife sightings depend on where the animals are that day. That’s why the captain’s decisions—like when to stop for a swim or where to search—are part of the deal.

Whale and dolphin spotting: pilot whales, dolphins, and more

This is whale and dolphin watching with a respectful approach, guided by a local crew. The target species you’re most likely to hear about are pilot whales and dolphins, which is why many people book this cruise in the first place.

Based on the experiences described, you may see:

• Pilot whales (including reports of seeing many in the 5-hour option)
• Dolphins in groups, including family groups
• Spotted dolphins specifically mentioned by one passenger
• Extras like flying fish and even sea turtles on some trips

A big part of the value here is the interpretation. The crew provides a multilingual guide experience (English, Spanish, French, German, Italian), and that turns random sightings into something you can actually place: what you’re seeing, why they’re around, and why the rules matter.

The sustainability piece isn’t just marketing text. The tour is described as following local guidelines for a calm and respectful approach, under a legal whale-watching permit. In practice, that means you’re more likely to enjoy the animals without feeling like the boat is pushing too hard.

And yes, sometimes you might miss the whales. One passenger reported seeing lots of dolphins but no whales on their sailing. That’s the honest travel tradeoff for any marine wildlife tour: you’re buying a chance, not a guarantee. The upside is that even a dolphin-only day can be memorable if you’re paying attention.

The swim stop: crystal-clear water and captain-led timing

After the wildlife part, the cruise anchors so you can swim. The swim window is typically 15–20 minutes, and it only happens when weather and sea conditions permit. The captain controls the timing, so the plan is flexible—good for safety, sometimes annoying if you’re really itching to jump in, but that’s the reality of open water.

What you’re getting here is a quick, refreshing break—more like a cool-off than a full swim session. One of the most practical ways to prepare is to make sure you’ve got:

• Swimwear on (or ready to change quickly)
• Sunscreen applied before you’re out in the sun
• Sunglasses and a hat (the deck sun can be intense)
• A towel, since it’s not included

If you’re thinking about snorkeling: snorkel equipment isn’t included, so bring your own if you want it. If you’re only planning to swim, you’re set as long as you bring a towel.

Also, the rules matter. Feeding animals is not allowed, and while the swim is separate from wildlife viewing, it still keeps the day respectful and controlled.

Crew, guidance, and onboard comfort that actually matter

This is where the reviews lean very positive. People repeatedly call out the crew’s friendliness and how much effort they put into getting a good view. That’s not a minor detail—on a boat, your best sightings often depend on whether the captain and crew communicate well and make smart decisions about where to look.

The guide is described as multilingual, so depending on the day you might hear English plus other languages onboard. If you prefer one language for learning, you’ll still get the core message about what you’re seeing and why it matters.

Onboard comfort is also part of the practical score:

• Toilets on board (big deal on short trips)
• Drinks available for purchase, including soft drinks, beer, and cocktails
• A smoking area is mentioned in one review, which can help you plan where you stand if you want less smoke near your spot

One review also mentions getting water and soft drinks alongside beer and wine at a specific price point, plus cocktails at another price point. Those are review-specific details, but they do point to a clear idea: you shouldn’t expect the cruise to be a high-priced bar experience, and you likely can buy simple refreshments if you want them.

Price and time: why $29 can feel like a smart deal

At around $29 per person, this cruise is positioned as budget-friendly for a whale and dolphin watching outing. One passenger even called it an absolute bargain and compared it to the cost of similar experiences, saying it felt like it was half the price for the same general type of day.

That’s only meaningful if you know what you’re paying for. You’re paying for:

• A legal, permit-holding marine wildlife watch
• A real sailing experience on a traditional wooden boat
• A swim stop when conditions allow
• A guided, multilingual explanation

You’re not paying for included drinks or included towel/snorkel gear. Soft drinks, beer, and cocktails are available to purchase onboard, and towels and snorkel equipment are not included.

Now about duration. The advertised length ranges from 2 to 5 hours, and the shorter option is often the right fit if you’ve got limited time and want to be back for lunch or a later plan. The longer option usually makes sense if you want more time on the water and a better chance of matching wildlife activity patterns to the day—especially since sightings vary.

Who this fits well (and who should skip)

This is a great choice if you’re after a sea day with real nature time: couples, families, and solo travelers who don’t need a complicated plan. One review described it as perfect after breakfast—short enough to keep the rest of the day open.

It also works if you enjoy learning on the move. The crew provides facts and guidance while you search the water, so you’re not just staring into the horizon hoping for something.

But skip it if:

• You have mobility impairments or need wheelchair access. It isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
• You’re traveling with pets. Pets aren’t allowed (assistance dogs are allowed).
• You’re planning to bring a party vibe. Party groups aren’t allowed, and alcohol/drugs are not permitted.

Practical tips so you’re comfortable (and ready for the swim)

A few small preparations can make this day feel effortless:

• Bring sunglasses and a sun hat (deck time is real time in the sun)
• Wear swimwear if you want to get into the water quickly
• Pack a towel (not included) and sunscreen
• Expect the swim to be weather-dependent. If you see the water conditions look rough, trust the captain’s call.
• Don’t bring outside alcohol or drugs; onboard sales are available, but follow the rules.

If you’re driving, plan for parking time too. One review mentions nearby parking with a cost, which hints that there are options close to the harbour—but prices and availability can change.

Should you book the Neptuno Whale Experience Tenerife cruise?

If you want a straightforward, lower-cost way to watch marine life from a wooden boat—and you don’t mind that whales and dolphins can be hit-or-miss depending on the day—this is an easy yes. The combination of legal permit, sustainability-minded approach, helpful crew, and the chance for a swim makes it feel like more than just a basic boat ride.

I’d especially recommend it if:

• You like relaxed pacing more than long technical excursions
• You want a multilingual guide experience
• You’re ready to enjoy dolphins even if whales are elusive that day

Book with realistic expectations. This is nature in motion, not a guaranteed wildlife checklist. The best mindset is simple: enjoy the sailing, listen to what the crew explains, and be ready to jump in when the captain gives the signal.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The experience is offered for 2 to 5 hours, depending on the option and schedule available.

Where do I meet the boat?

Meet at BARCO SHOGUN at Colon Harbours, pier number 14, next to the petrol station.

What animals are you hoping to see?

The cruise focuses on whales and dolphins, with pilot whales and dolphins specifically mentioned. Sightings can also include other marine life like flying fish and sea turtles on some trips.

Is there a swimming stop?

Yes. There’s an anchor stop for a swim of about 15–20 minutes, weather and sea conditions permitting, at the captain’s discretion.

Do I get snorkeling gear or a towel?

No. Snorkel equipment is not included, and towels are not provided.

Are drinks included?

No. Soft drinks, beer, and cocktails are not included, but they are available to purchase onboard. Toilets are on board.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users or limited mobility?

No. The experience is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and not suitable for wheelchair users.