Pilot whales put on a show off Tenerife. This 3-hour small-yacht cruise sails the waters around Southern Tenerife with a real focus on wildlife viewing and a relaxed, friendly crew. I love how the tour keeps things personal with a maximum of 11 passengers, plus you can choose a private option.

My other big win is the “on-the-water” comfort. You get unlimited drinks (including beer, soft drinks, water, and champagne) and you’re also served ham, cheese, and salad baguettes along with fruit, chips, and nuts—so you’re not hungry or hunting for a snack during the best part of the day. The onboard commentary also helps you know what you’re looking at.

One possible drawback: this isn’t a good match for people who get seasick easily. They even suggest motion-sickness prevention, and if the water’s a bit rough, that can take the edge off the experience. Bring what you need, and plan to take it slow if the boat starts pitching.

Key things you’ll notice right away

• Small group size (max 11) means more time watching and less time stuck in crowds.
• Unlimited drinks and snacks keep the whole trip comfortable, not just the viewing moments.
• Snorkeling with turtles happens after you anchor in a secluded bay, with gear included.
• Captains actively respect the animals, keeping distance instead of chasing.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with optional pickup within 10 km if arranged ahead.
• Motion-sickness prep is smart since the cruise is on open Atlantic water.

Why this small-yacht whale watch feels different than big boats

If you’ve done ocean tours before, you know the trade-off: big boats can mean bigger crowds and more noise. Here, the experience is built around space. With a maximum of 11 people onboard (shared) and a private tour option, you’re able to actually watch—without the constant shifting, blocking, and “where is everyone standing?” game.

The biggest payoff is how close you can sometimes get to the real action. In the waters around Southern Tenerife, pilot whales and dolphins are often moving through feeding and social areas, and a smaller yacht tends to be easier to position around them. You may see dolphins popping up alongside the boat, and you can also spot whales—sometimes basking or surfacing calmly rather than putting on a chaotic show.

This tour also has a conservation mindset. The crew works in a conservation area and treats wildlife respectfully. That’s not just a nice idea. It affects what you experience: when the boat isn’t rushing or crowding, animals can behave normally, and your sightings feel more natural.

From hotel to harbor: the pickup and your first 20 minutes

Logistics are fairly simple. The trip starts with a van ride from your selected pickup option (about 20 minutes). If you choose pickup, you’ll be routed to the harbor area near Puerto Colón.

If you don’t need pickup, plan to arrive at the meeting point at Puerto Colón gate number 2, about 15 minutes before departure. If you’re going by the dock sign, they ask you to wait at the top of the dock near Pantalan Nº4 15 minutes early.

A quick note that saves time: the instructions clearly say your timing matters. Arrive early, because once everyone’s onboard, the crew moves fast to get you out on the water at the right moment.

The 3-hour cruise: how the wildlife spotting usually plays out

The main chunk of the experience is the sea time—about 3 hours cruising and searching in the Atlantic waters off southern Tenerife. This is where the “clear waters” and dramatic coastline come in. You’ll look out over bright open water and also get views up top from the birdlife overhead, since the area is full of activity.

Here’s what makes the spotting part feel worth it. The crew isn’t just scanning randomly. They’re aiming for the most populated dolphin and whale spots along the route, and they also explain what’s happening as you travel. That onboard commentary is useful because it helps you understand why dolphins might be close to the surface, or what you’re likely to see when pilot whales are present.

In real-world terms, you can think of the cruise like this:

• You start searching and get your first sightings.
• The captain adjusts the route based on what’s visible.
• Wildlife sightings often build as you go, with dolphins commonly appearing and pilot whales frequently a highlight.

Even if the ocean decides to be stubborn that day, you still get a solid outing: sailing, commentary, and plenty of viewpoints while you look for marine life.

The turtle snorkeling stop in a secluded bay

The tour isn’t all “watch from the boat.” After navigating the open water, the yacht anchors in a more sheltered spot—a secluded bay. This is when snorkeling and swimming come into play.

You’ll have free time to swim and snorkel with turtles, and snorkeling gear is included. That gear detail matters because you don’t want to arrive thinking you’ll find equipment later. You’re also not limited to just one quick try. You get actual time to get comfortable in the water and enjoy the view.

Two practical considerations:

• Water temperature can vary by season. If you’re going in cooler months, plan for it to feel chilly once you’re in the bay.
• Towels are not included. Bring a towel of your own, especially if you don’t want to scramble for one after you get out of the water.

Also follow the rules: feeding animals is not allowed, and nudity isn’t allowed. The goal is respectful viewing with minimal stress for the wildlife.

Unlimited drinks and snacks: the real comfort advantage

On a wildlife boat, food can be an afterthought. Here, it’s part of the experience. Drinks and snacks are available during the cruise, and the lineup is straightforward and actually helpful while you’re out there watching.

Included on board:

• Unlimited drinks: champagne, beer, soft drinks, and water
• Snacks: fruit, chips, and nuts
• Food: ham, cheese, and salad baguettes

This does two things for you. First, it keeps your energy steady when you’re out in the sun and waiting for sightings. Second, it removes the pressure of needing to buy anything mid-tour. You can stay focused on the ocean.

If you’re worried about seasickness, here’s a detail that’s genuinely useful: the crew helps people adjust their seating when someone feels nauseated. If you start feeling off, speak up early. The staff can guide you toward a better spot on the boat and help you ride it out.

The crew’s approach: respect, safety, and questions that get answered

You’ll get a safety briefing at the start, and the trip includes onboard commentary with local information. That combination matters because it turns “cool sighting” into “I actually understand what I’m seeing.”

One theme that comes through again and again is that the captain doesn’t treat wildlife like a target. Instead of chasing, the crew works to keep animals comfortable. That approach is better for the animals and better for your viewing, because you’re more likely to see normal behavior rather than frantic movement caused by constant pursuit.

You should also take advantage of the questions. If you’re curious about local sea life, the Canary Islands area, or what you’re spotting, the guides are ready to explain. It helps you slow down and look up—dolphins can pop into view faster than you think.

Price and value: is $77 worth it?

$77 for about 3 hours can sound either reasonable or pricey, depending on what’s included. In this case, the value comes from stacking benefits in one package.

You’re paying for:

• Sailboat cruise (not just a short boat transfer)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Safety briefing
• Dolphin and whale watching in a conservation area
• Onboard commentary
• Swim/snorkel time with gear included
• Unlimited drinks, including champagne
• Food (ham, cheese, salad baguettes) plus snacks

That combination is what makes the price feel fair. You’re not only paying for the wildlife chance. You’re also getting a guided outing with a small-group format, plus refreshments and water time.

If you compare this with big-group tours where you might not get the same amount of personal attention or the same room to move, the small-yacht setup can tip the balance strongly in your favor. You pay a bit more for comfort and watch time, and you usually feel it.

Who this tour suits best (and who should think twice)

This is a strong choice if you:

• Want close-up marine viewing without a huge crowd
• Like a guided experience with commentary, not just a sightseeing bus-style tour
• Want both whale/dolphin watching and water time (snorkel with turtles)
• Prefer a relaxed pace with food and drinks onboard

It may be less ideal if you:

• Are prone to seasickness. The tour notes this clearly as not suitable for people who are likely to get sick on the water.
• Want a “dry” experience only. You’ll have opportunities to swim, snorkel, and get into the bay.

Families often fit this well because the experience is designed to be friendly and personal on a smaller yacht. Just remember you’re still on open water, so kids and adults who get motion sick should plan ahead.

What to bring so you don’t feel stuck onboard

You’ll get what you need for snorkeling gear, but you still need to pack for sun, comfort, and water time. Bring:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Jacket (it’s a good idea for wind and cooler moments)
• Motion sickness prevention
• Towel (since towels aren’t included)

And if you’re sensitive to motion, don’t wait until you’re already uncomfortable. Bring and use what helps you. The crew can also help you manage your position, but prevention is always easier than recovery.

A good way to choose between shared and private

This company offers a shared tour with a maximum of 11 passengers, and you can also pick a private tour option. Here’s how I’d think about it.

Shared works well if you’re social, want the lower cost, and still want a small group. Private is worth considering if you want a quieter setting, a tighter schedule feel, or you’re traveling with a group that wants everyone together without splitting attention across strangers.

Either way, you’re still sailing the same coastline and hunting the same dolphin and whale zones. The big difference is the vibe onboard.

Should you book this Tenerife whale and dolphin cruise?

Book it if you want a small-yacht experience in Southern Tenerife that mixes real wildlife watching with actual time in the water. The included drinks and snacks make the outing feel easy, and the respectful, safety-first approach improves both comfort and viewing.

Think twice or come prepared if you’re sensitive to boat motion. If seasickness is a known issue for you, plan carefully, bring prevention, and consider whether this format fits your tolerance.

If your goal is memorable sea life—dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles—and you like a guided, comfortable boat ride rather than a crowded excursion, this is one of the better ways to spend a morning or afternoon on Tenerife.

FAQ

What animals might I see on this cruise?

You’re specifically looking for dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, and there’s also a chance to snorkel with turtles during the anchored stop.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Pickup is optional, and if you need pickup within 10 km, you must contact the operator at least 24 hours in advance.

Where do I meet the tour if I’m not using pickup?

Meet at Puerto Colón gate number 2 about 15 minutes before departure. If you’re going to the dock instructions, wait at the top of the dock near Pantalan Nº4.

Is snorkeling included, and do I get gear?

Yes. You get free time to swim and snorkel, and snorkeling gear is included.

What food and drinks are included onboard?

Unlimited drinks are included, including champagne, beer, soft drinks, and water. Food includes ham, cheese, and salad baguettes, plus snacks like fruit, chips, and nuts.

How long is the experience?

The duration is 3 hours.

Who should avoid booking this trip?

It’s not suitable for people prone to seasickness. They also recommend bringing motion sickness prevention, sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, and a jacket.