Private 2 hour Whale Watching Tour

If you’re considering a whale watching experience in Tenerife, you’ve come to the right place. This private, 2-hour tour promises a chance to see cetaceans in their natural habitat with a small group, expert guides, and a focus on respectful wildlife observation. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a memorable day on the water, this excursion offers a blend of education, adventure, and intimacy that many larger tours simply can’t match.

What we love about this tour is the personalized attention from knowledgeable marine biologist guides and the chance to listen to whales and dolphins through a hydrophone. Plus, the small-group format ensures you won’t feel like a sardine, which makes the experience more comfortable and authentic. The only caveat? At $521.37 per group (up to 11 people), it’s on the pricier side—though many reviewers feel the included expert guidance, responsible approach, and memorable wildlife sightings make it worth every penny.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value intimate, educational encounters with marine life, appreciate respectful wildlife watching, and want a hassle-free, personalized experience. Families with children, wildlife lovers, or those celebrating special occasions will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make the Difference – Marine biologists onboard provide live commentary and fascinating insights into whales, dolphins, and the local ecosystem.
• Responsible Wildlife Watching – The tour adheres to regulations, respecting the animals’ space while still offering close-up views.
• Small-Group Experience – With only your private group, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views and personalized attention.
• Photos Included – Professional photos of your marine encounters are emailed afterward, helping you remember the day without fussing with your camera.
• Listening to the Animals – The hydrophone lets you hear whales and dolphins in their natural environment, adding a unique layer to the experience.
• Convenient & Hassle-Free – Easy meeting point at the Colon Port, with parking, restrooms, and restaurants nearby.

Setting Off from the Marina

We loved the way the tour begins with a straightforward, hassle-free meeting at Puerto Colón Marina. Arriving 15 minutes early gives you time to settle in, use the bathrooms, or grab a quick snack from nearby eateries. Parking is ample, which is a relief in busy tourist spots, and the marina’s location is easily accessible. The tour includes all taxes, so no surprises there.

Once aboard the custom-built 8-meter whale-watching boat, the captain provides a short safety briefing. It’s reassuring to see that safety and comfort are priorities. The boat itself is a cozy, well-maintained vessel designed for smooth navigation and optimal wildlife viewing. From here, the adventure begins.

The Role of the Marine Biologist Guides

The real standout is the biologist onboard. Their role isn’t just to point at the whales but to educate. They explain the behaviors of the cetaceans, share interesting facts about their biology, and use didactic materials to enhance understanding. Several reviews highlight how passionate and knowledgeable the guides are, with comments like: “John was so passionate about the creatures and protecting the ocean,” and “Ion was very friendly and knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts.”

This educational approach enhances the experience, especially for curious travelers or families with children. Expect to learn about the different species you might encounter—pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins seem to be favorites, often spotted within minutes of reaching the hot spot.

Wildlife Encounters in Detail

Reputable reviews describe breathtaking moments: “We saw so many pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins up super close to the boat,” and “Seeing pilot whales from just a few meters away was truly special.” The respectful approach of the captain ensures the animals aren’t disturbed while still allowing for impressive close-up views.

The tour’s timing—usually not more than 3 miles offshore—means quick access to the prime whale watching spots. When in position, the boat slows down to allow for safe, respectful observation. The guides will share ongoing observations of the animals’ behaviors, making the experience both dynamic and educational.

Hearing the whales and dolphins on the hydrophone adds a magical element, giving you a sense of being right in their world. Multiple reviewers mention how special it is to listen to the vocalizations, transforming a visual experience into a multi-sensory one.

Photography and Memories

One of the most appreciated features is that professional photos are emailed afterward. Several reviews praise the quality and the convenience, noting that it’s a relief not to have to juggle a camera while trying to observe the animals. These photos serve as lasting memories of your encounter, often capturing moments that are hard to photograph in the moment.

Duration and Value

This tour lasts about 2 hours, a perfect length for a focused wildlife experience without feeling rushed. The price, at over $500 for the entire group, may seem steep, but many reviewers feel it’s justified considering the expert guidance, responsible approach, and the intimate setting. For families or groups with a strong interest in marine life, the value increases when you consider the quality of the experience versus larger, less personalized tours.

Additional Considerations

While most travelers find the experience seamless, it’s worth noting the guidance is bilingual, in English and Spanish, which broadens accessibility. However, guests with certain mobility issues or back problems might want to confirm their comfort on the boat, as the reviews suggest the guides are very attentive and accommodating but the boat’s size might be a factor for some.

Weather can impact the tour—bad weather can lead to cancellations, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if that happens. So, it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible if possible.

This whale watching adventure is ideal for travelers who appreciate a responsible, respectful approach to wildlife. If you enjoy learning from passionate guides and want a personalized experience that allows for close sightings and engaging commentary, you’ll be very happy here. It’s perfect for families, wildlife lovers, or anyone celebrating a special occasion and looking for a memorable, eco-conscious adventure on the water.

This private 2-hour whale watching tour in Tenerife offers a thoughtful blend of education, respectful wildlife observation, and intimate exploration. The presence of marine biologist guides and the opportunity to listen to cetaceans makes it stand out from larger, less personalized trips. While the cost is on the higher side, the reviews show that many feel the experience is well worth it—especially if you value quality, authenticity, and sustainability.

If you’re after a true, up-close encounter with whales and dolphins—guided by professionals who care deeply about marine conservation—this tour will likely meet or exceed your expectations. It’s a perfect choice for those who want more than just a boat ride, seeking instead a meaningful connection with Tenerife’s incredible marine life.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the Puerto Colón Marina, specifically at Pantalón No. 3, about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. Parking is available nearby, and the marina has restrooms and restaurants for your convenience.

What’s included in the tour?
All local taxes are included, along with live commentary from marine biologists, the chance to listen to whales and dolphins via a hydrophone, and photos of your wildlife encounters emailed afterward.

Can I bring food or drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks onboard. There are no provisions included in the tour, so plan accordingly if you wish to snack or hydrate during the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers and reviews mention that all ages are welcome. However, those with pregnancy, neck/back problems, mobility issues, or recent surgeries should consult with the tour provider beforehand.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an excellent choice for a half-day adventure without feeling too lengthy.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this activity is exclusive to your group, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

In the end, this whale watching tour in Tenerife offers a responsible, educational, and memorable experience—perfect for those who want authentic wildlife encounters with expert guidance. It’s a great choice for anyone seeking quality over quantity, and for travelers wanting to support sustainable tourism practices while enjoying the spectacular marine life of the Canary Islands.