Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma

Exploring La Palma’s Northwest Coast by Boat: An Honest Review

Our review of this boat trip along La Palma’s northwest coast offers a detailed look at what travelers can reasonably expect from this well-rated adventure. Designed for those eager for a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and a touch of underground exploration, this tour promises an intimate experience of La Palma’s rugged coastline.

Two standout features make this trip especially appealing: the underwater perspective with a hydrofoil that reveals hidden underwater landscapes, and the opportunity to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat. However, potential participants should consider that weather conditions can influence what you see and that the tour has a limited group size (max 12 travelers), which, while often making for a more personalized experience, means booking in advance is highly advisable.

This trip is best suited for travelers who love marine wildlife, enjoy scenic coastlines, and are comfortable with a roughly two-hour boat ride that combines active sightseeing and relaxing moments. Families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable way to explore La Palma’s diverse coastal environment will find this tour well worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic marine experience with underwater views and wildlife sightings.
• Visiting iconic caves like La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada.
• Relaxing stops on beaches like Playa de la Veta, with time for a swim.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible itinerary depending on weather and sightings.
• Limited group size for a more personalized and intimate outing.

A Closer Look at the Boat Trip Experience

What’s Included and How It Works

This 2-hour boat trip operates from a conveniently located meeting point in Tarajal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The ticket price is around $70.16 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the multi-faceted experience offered. The tour is run by Charter María, S.L., and it features a mobile ticket, making it straightforward to book in advance—typically about 18 days before the scheduled date.

The boat itself is a fantasy hydrofoil equipped with underwater vision, a feature that elevates this trip above a simple coastal cruise. Instead of just looking at the coast from above, you’ll also be able to see underwater formations and marine life through the boat’s special viewing equipment. This means potential sightings of dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds, which are frequently reported by past participants.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour starts at 11:00 am, a perfect time to catch daylight and enjoy the scenery in natural light. The route includes visits to some stunning geological features such as La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada, two caves that showcase La Palma’s volcanic past. These are not just photograph-worthy spots but also places where a quick glimpse inside can give you an idea of the island’s volcanic origins.

You’ll also pass through Porís de Candelaria, Porís de Puntagorda, and Tinizara well, each offering different perspectives on the coast’s geology and marine environment. One of the tour’s true pleasures is stopping at Playa de la Veta, where you can take a refreshing dip, relax on the sand, and enjoy some included local tapas and drinks—a bonus that adds a social and culinary touch to the trip.

Reaching the northwesternmost point of La Palma, the boat then explores the lava delta formed by recent volcanic activity—an awe-inspiring reminder of the island’s fiery nature. The tour’s flexible nature means that some days, depending on weather conditions, they may go out for a walk or focus more on wildlife sightings.

Wildlife and Marine Encounters

One of the most lauded aspects of this tour, based on numerous reviews, is seeing dolphins and whales in their natural environment. Past travelers, like Gabriel, have called it a “great experience,” highlighting the guide’s knowledge and the dolphin and whale sightings as the tour’s “momento cumbre” or highlight.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the chance to see dolphins, calderones (pilot whales), and turtles makes this trip especially worthwhile for nature lovers. The guides’ experience and local expertise are often praised, making the wildlife encounters feel more meaningful and informed.

What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Group Size

With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour is intimate and allows for personalized attention from the guide. This smaller group size enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.

The boat ride is roughly two hours long, so participants should be comfortable with boat travel. The boat’s design with underwater vision means you’ll be close to the water, but it also requires some balance and patience, especially if the sea is choppy.

Weather and Sightings: Variables to Keep in Mind

Weather plays a vital role in the day’s success. The tour’s schedule is flexible, adjusting to current conditions to maximize sightings and safety. As one review notes, “Every day is a new adventure, full of surprises,” highlighting that no two trips are exactly alike.

Participants should be prepared for possible seasonal variations—some days might offer more marine encounters, others might focus more on coastal caves and beaches. Still, the overall experience remains compelling for those interested in both geology and marine life.

The Value of the Tour

At just over $70, this tour offers a full package: scenic coastlines, geological marvels, wildlife sightings, and time for relaxation and local food. It’s a good balance of adventure and leisure, especially considering the small group size, which tends to make for a more memorable experience.

The inclusion of underwater views and stops at notable caves are unique features that set this tour apart from standard boat rides. If you’re someone who appreciates a personalized, educational, and wildlife-rich outing, you’ll find this experience offers excellent value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and families looking for an active yet relaxing day out. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in seeing marine mammals or exploring La Palma’s volcanic coast from the water.

Participants should be aware that weather conditions can influence the day’s itinerary, so flexibility is key. You’ll want to be comfortable on a boat for a couple of hours and eager to spot wildlife and geological wonders.

Final Thoughts

This Northwest Coast boat trip on La Palma combines scenic beauty, geological intrigue, and wildlife encounters into a compact, well-regarded package. With knowledgeable guides and the chance to see dolphins, whales, and turtles, it’s a compelling option for those wanting a genuine, memorable marine adventure.

While the experience depends on weather and sea conditions, the small group size and underwater views promise a more intimate and engaging journey than larger, more generic boat tours. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to see La Palma from a different perspective—one that’s both fascinating and fun.

To sum it up, if you’re after a personalized, wildlife-focused day on the water with stunning coastal scenery and geological highlights, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s best suited for those who value a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with a touch of the island’s volcanic soul.

FAQ

What is the start time for this tour?
The tour begins at 11:00 am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

How long does the trip last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops for swimming and relaxing at Playa de la Veta.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat ride, visits to caves and beaches, and included tapas and drinks for the relaxation stop.

Is wildlife sighting guaranteed?
No, wildlife sightings depend on weather and animal activity, but dolphins and whales are commonly seen according to past reviews.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s ideal for travelers comfortable on a boat, interested in marine life and geology, and those seeking an intimate experience.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are best made about 18 days in advance via the provided platform or directly through the supplier, Charter María, S.L.

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this boat trip offers a vivid slice of La Palma’s coast, combining natural beauty, wildlife, and volcanic history into a memorable outing.