Discovering the Whale Watching Experience in Tenerife: A Practical Review
If you’re visiting Tenerife and eager to see marine life in its natural environment, the Excursion to see the whales – 3 Hours offers a solid, enjoyable option. This tour combines the excitement of spotting whales and dolphins with the chance to swim in the Atlantic, all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and relaxed. We appreciate this tour’s focus on authentic encounters, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to get up close with wild marine creatures.
One of our favorite aspects is the underwater exploration using glass-bottom viewing, which allows you to peer beneath the waves without getting wet—an excellent feature for those who prefer to stay dry but still want to experience marine life. The second highlight is the small group size, capped at 12 passengers, which promotes a more personal and less commercialized atmosphere.
A possible consideration is the timing of the tour—check availability carefully to find a start time that fits your schedule. Since most whale watching tours are weather-dependent, a little flexibility might be necessary to enjoy the best conditions.
This excursion suits wildlife enthusiasts, families with children, or anyone looking for a relaxed, nature-focused adventure. It’s particularly good for those who want a more personal experience rather than large, crowded boat trips.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Small group size ensures a cozy, personalized experience.
- Underwater viewing technology offers a unique perspective on marine life.
- Swim stop provides a refreshing break and a chance to cool off.
- Guided tour with knowledgeable cetaceans expert enhances your understanding of the animals.
- All-inclusive price covers crew, fuel, taxes, and refreshments.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies add peace of mind.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tenerife.
The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour
This 3-hour whale watching tour departs from Lina Yacht in Tenerife, with a designated stop at Puerto Colón. The journey wraps up back at the same location, making logistics straightforward for travelers. The experience is designed to be both fun and informative, with a focus on observing whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
The itinerary involves cruising through the Atlantic with the chance to see whales and dolphins, which are often spotted during the trip. The tour also includes a guided commentary by an expert who can shed light on the behaviors and characteristics of the animals you encounter. This creates a more enriching experience compared to simply watching from a distance.
A standout feature is the underwater discovery—the boat is equipped with a glass-bottom viewing area that allows you to peer beneath the surface. This is especially appealing for those who want to see marine life without getting wet, and it adds a fascinating dimension to the tour.
The highlight for many is the swimming stop—the boat anchors at either El Puertito or Playa de las Vistas for a chance to cool off and snorkel in the inviting waters. This is a real treat after hours of wildlife spotting, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the Atlantic’s refreshing embrace firsthand.
Refreshements are included, with a complimentary beverage—choices include beer, soft drinks, or water—and a tasty sandwich. These little touches help keep everyone energized during the trip.
The Marine Encounter: What You’re Likely to See
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the reviews suggest that this tour often delivers. Travelers have reported seeing whales, dolphins, and even turtles, with some noting their luck in spotting a variety of species. One review mentions, “We were lucky and saw turtles, whales, and dolphins,” which highlights that marine life sightings are a common highlight.
The tour’s emphasis on guided observation means you’re more likely to spot and recognize the animals, thanks to the expertise of the crew. The guides are described as friendly and experienced, which makes the journey more engaging and educational.
The boat’s small size helps with close encounters, but it’s also designed to minimize disturbance to the animals, respecting their natural behaviors. This respectful approach is especially important if you’re hoping to observe whales without chasing or stressing them.
Value and Pricing: What You’re Getting for Your Money
At €45 for adults and €22 for children (2–10), this tour offers a good balance of value and experience. The all-inclusive price covers the crew, fuel, port taxes, and IGIC, which simplifies budgeting and ensures no hidden costs.
Compared to larger, more commercial whale-watching boats, the small group size means you’ll spend more time with personalized attention and less fighting for space. The inclusion of refreshments and swimming makes this a more comprehensive outing, rather than just a boat ride.
Many reviews emphasize the overall value, with one noting, “It was an absolutely lovely 3-hour boat ride with a swimming/snorkeling + sandwich and drink stop.” This combination of wildlife viewing and leisure makes the experience feel well-rounded for the price.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This whale watching trip is ideal for those who value authentic wildlife encounters and a relaxed pace. Families with children will appreciate the safe swimming stop and the chance to see marine animals in natural settings.
It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer small-group experiences over crowded excursions, and those who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable leaders. If you’re interested in underwater views, the glass-bottom feature will be a big plus.
However, anyone seeking a longer or more adventurous ocean outing might want to explore other options. Because it’s a 3-hour trip, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time or who want a quick but meaningful wildlife experience.
The Itinerary in Detail: What Makes Each Stop Special
The tour kicks off at Lina Yacht, setting the scene for a relaxed departure. After a brief safety briefing and introduction, the boat heads toward Puerto Colón, where the real adventure begins. Here, the captain and guide will focus on finding whales and dolphins, often using binoculars and keen eyesight to spot the animals.
The search can last most of the trip, and the guides’ expertise is crucial—many travelers have praised the crew for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. As one reviewer put it, “Alex the captain was so friendly and lovely, had a fantastic time and got to see some amazing wildlife.”
Once the marine life is spotted, the boat slows down for a closer look. If conditions permit, the guide may provide interesting facts about the species encountered, enriching the experience.
Midway through the trip, the boat anchors at either El Puertito or Playa de las Vistas. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or just relax with a refreshing drink and a sandwich—what better way to break up the wildlife watching? Several reviewers have raved about this part: “Had a nice dip/snorkel; captain fed seagulls by hand,” highlighting that the experience is both fun and interactive.
Finally, the journey returns to Lina Yacht, offering a comfortable end to a memorable three hours on the water.
What the Reviews Say: Authentic Feedback
The consistent praise from past travelers paints a clear picture. Serena called it, “Very pleasant boat tour with friendly crew,” noting their luck in seeing turtles, whales, and dolphins, and emphasizing the snorkeling and refreshment stop as highlights.
Connie appreciated the friendly and experienced crew, especially mentioning Alex the captain. Anthony’s review highlighted the abundance of dolphins and the fun of feeding seagulls, showing their trip was lively and engaging.
These reviews underscore the personal touch and expert guidance that make this trip stand out. The opportunity to see marine life in a respectful, relaxed environment seems to resonate with many travelers.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re after an authentic and relaxed way to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife, this tour hits the mark. Its small-group setup, guided commentary, and inclusion of a swim stop make it a worthwhile choice for those who appreciate personalized service and interactive experiences.
It’s especially suitable for families, wildlife lovers, and travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure. The price is reasonable considering the all-inclusive nature—refreshments, guided insights, and marine encounters all rolled into a compact 3-hour outing.
For those who prefer larger boats with more amenities or longer excursions, other options might be better. But for a genuine, intimate wildlife experience that keeps the focus on the animals and your enjoyment, this Tenerife whale watching trip offers excellent value.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with departure and return to Lina Yacht.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a complimentary beverage (beer, water, or soft drink) and a tasty sandwich are included.
Is there an opportunity to swim?
Absolutely. The boat anchors at El Puertito or Playa de las Vistas for a swim, snorkel, or just to relax in the water.
What species might I see?
Most likely, you’ll observe whales and dolphins, with some travelers also spotting turtles based on past reviews.
How many people are on the boat?
The tour is limited to a small, friendly group of maximum 12 passengers, enhancing the experience’s intimacy.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides can communicate in French, English, Spanish, Dutch, and Italian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.
To sum it up, this whale watching excursion in Tenerife stands out for its focus on authentic wildlife encounters, small-group intimacy, and added amenities like underwater views and swimming opportunities. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, educational, and memorable day on the Atlantic, especially if they value expert guides and personal attention. Whether you’re a family, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a beautiful boat ride, this tour offers a charming way to connect with the ocean’s most enchanting residents.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Whale Watching Tours in Tenerife
- Excursion to see the whales – 3 Hours
- Los Cristianos: Whale Watching Cruise w/Swim Stop & Drinks
- Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour on a Pirate Boat
- Costa Adeje: Whale and Dolphin-Watching Boat Excursion
- Private Charter Private Charter to see the whales – 3 Hours
- Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat
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