Discover whales in Tenerife: yacht tour with bath and lunch

Planning a marine adventure in Tenerife? You’ve come to the right place. This yacht tour offers the chance to spot whales and dolphins, enjoy a relaxing swim in peaceful bays, and indulge in a tasty onboard meal—all in an intimate setting that keeps the crowds at bay. From what we’ve seen and heard from travelers, this trip is a practical, authentic way to connect with Tenerife’s marine life and natural beauty.

Two standout features make this tour particularly appealing. First, the small group size—just 20 passengers—ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery. Second, the expert guides and responsible whale-sighting practices promise not just fun but also an ethical approach to marine observation. That said, one consideration for travelers is that towels, suncream, and photos are not included, so packing a few essentials is wise.

Ideal for couples, groups of friends, or families seeking a laid-back yet engaging day on the water, this tour balances adventure with comfort. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply in search of a scenic cruise, it offers a well-rounded experience without overloading on extras or gimmicks.

Key Points

• Intimate setting with a maximum of 20 passengers for personalized service.
• Responsible and expert-guided whale and dolphin watching.
• Includes a full onboard lunch with drinks, bringing value for the price.
• Stop for swimming in protected bays for a refreshing break.
• Comfortable yacht with shaded areas and sunbathing space.
• Flexible itinerary along Tenerife’s southwest coast, with scenic views.
• Free cancellation policy offers peace of mind.
• Accessible meeting point with pickup options and easy public transport access.

An Authentic Marine Experience in Tenerife

When considering a whale-watching tour, many travelers look for more than just the chance to see marine mammals—they want comfort, authenticity, and a sense of connection with nature. This yacht tour checks all those boxes while keeping the experience manageable and enjoyable.

Our review is based on reviews from travelers who found it to be a “very nice” outing, with sightings of whales, dolphins, and even a turtle. One guest commented, “It was very nice!! Definitely worth the money. We’ve seen whales, dolphins, and a turtle. Lunch and drinks were also very tasty and well arranged. Had a great day.” That kind of straightforward praise underscores the value of this experience.

The Yacht Experience

The Neptuno, the vessel used for this tour, is described as a Blue Flag authorized boat, adhering to strict regulations for marine observation. It features shaded areas and mats for sunbathing, making your journey comfortable whether you prefer to stay in the shade or soak up some rays. The vessel’s size—just 20 passengers—is a key detail. It allows for better wildlife sightings, closer encounters, and a more intimate atmosphere, avoiding the crowded feeling common on larger boats.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Puerto Los Cristianos, a lively port with easy access for most travelers. From there, you set sail towards La Gomera, where the main goal is spotting whales and dolphins. The expert crew helps coordinate the sightings, making this part of the journey both exciting and educational. Since marine mammals are wild, sightings can never be guaranteed, but the responsible approach and knowledgeable guides increase your chances.

The second stop is at a protected bay, where you can swim in calm waters and enjoy your included lunch. Travelers have the opportunity to cool off, snorkel using limited equipment, and savor a meal that includes rice with vegetables, coleslaw, meatballs in tomato sauce, bread, and banana—plus unlimited water and refreshments. During the meal, wine and beer are served, adding a celebratory touch to the experience.

The final leg offers scenic views along Tenerife’s southwestern coast as you head back to Los Cristianos. The entire trip lasts about 3 to 5 hours, depending on conditions and how long you linger at each stop.

What Makes It Special

One of the tour’s highlights is the small group size. This means fewer crowds, more interaction with the crew, and a heightened chance of wildlife sightings. The crew’s professionalism and multilingual guidance are repeatedly praised, making it easier for everyone to understand and enjoy the experience.

The swimming stop is another big plus—quiet bays provide a peaceful environment for a quick dip and some relaxation away from the busy tourist spots. Travelers have noted that the weather usually permits swimming, which can be a refreshing break during the dolphin and whale search.

The Food and Drinks

Given the inclusion of lunch and drinks, this tour offers excellent value for money. The meal is described as tasty and well arranged, with a good selection of beverages—wine and beer included during lunch—making it a perfect way to unwind while on the water. The reviews highlight the quality of the refreshments, which is not always the case with similar excursions.

Considerations for Travelers

While the experience is largely positive, a few practical tips matter. Towel, sun cream, and photos aren’t included, so bringing a towel and some sunscreen is advisable. The tour’s maximum of 20 guests makes it a cozy, relaxed outing, but also means spaces can fill up well in advance—on average, bookings are made about 36 days ahead.

Weather can influence the experience, especially the swimming stop and wildlife sightings. If poor weather causes cancellation, a full refund or alternative date is offered, which adds peace of mind.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who appreciate a smaller, more personal experience on the water, with a focus on responsible wildlife observation. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed day with opportunities to swim and enjoy good food, rather than a high-speed, adrenaline-packed cruise. Families with children, couples, or groups of friends looking for a special day out will find this tour offers a lovely mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity.

Practical Details

• Duration: 3 to 5 hours, depending on conditions
• Price: About $68.26 per person, offering good value considering the meals, drinks, and wildlife experiences included
• Meeting Point: Yate Neptuno Yacht at Puerto de los Cristianos
• Includes: Lunch, drinks (water, soft drinks, wine, beer), snorkeling equipment (limited units), swimming stop, expert guide, responsible cetacean sighting practices
• Excludes: Towels, suncream, photos
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility
• Group size: Maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, making it a family-friendly option as long as children are comfortable on a boat.

Will I see whales or dolphins?
While sightings depend on the day’s wildlife activity, the guides and responsible practices improve your chances of spotting these creatures.

What should I pack?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and any personal items, as these aren’t included. Light clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are also recommended.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s a stop in a protected bay where you can swim, weather permitting.

Are drinks included during the meal?
Yes, water, soft drinks, wine, and beer are all included during lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Yate Neptuno Yacht in Los Cristianos and returns there at the end of the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience eco-friendly?
Yes, it’s operated responsibly with authorized vessels and expert guides, promoting sustainable marine observation.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 36 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

This small-group yacht tour in Tenerife offers a balanced blend of wildlife encounters, relaxation, and good food. The responsible approach to whale watching, combined with the comfortable vessel and beautiful scenery, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic marine adventure. The included lunch and drinks add value, while the limited number of passengers ensures a more intimate, less crowded experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to enjoy Tenerife’s marine life without the chaos of larger boats, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides and responsible wildlife viewing. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family looking for a memorable day, this tour provides a genuine taste of Tenerife’s oceanic wonders in a relaxed, friendly setting.