Spain · WHALE WATCHING
22 tours
The channel between Tenerife and La Gomera holds resident pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins all year, which is why sightings there are close to guaranteed rather than hoped for. Below are the 15 best trips: boat size, how long you are out, whether the operator keeps a respectful distance, and what each costs.
Ethical whale and dolphin watching from Los Cristianos on the Travelin Lady eco-yacht, plus a swim stop and Love Cave.
“We had our initial boat trip cancelled due to the weather however we were able to reschedule it. We really enjoyed the boat trip and managed to see lots of dolphins. We even caught some jumping in the waves the boat made. 10/10”
Los Cristianos no-chase whale and dolphin safari on Tenerife. Strict policy, licensed boat, government-certified guides, donation included.
“We saw a lot of dolphins and whales, the guides explained a lot. It was overall a very calm and slow trip, which we enjoyed. Thanks.”
Eco catamaran whale and dolphin cruise from Costa Adeje with snacks, drinks, underwater audio, and a swim stop in Tenerife’s sanctuary.
“Had an excellent trip, skipper took us to see whales and dolphins. Provided with a clean boat and staff were very attentive. Taken to a small cove so that we could swim in the sea. Was a lovely sunny day and everyone enjoyed the experience. Drinks and snacks included. Would definitely recommend !!”
2-hour Los Gigantes cruise for dolphin and whale spotting, then a swim stop at Juan López or Masca under Tenerife cliffs.
“Every part of the trip was fantastic. We saw whales, dolphins and turtles. Our guide was brilliant. Very informative and friendly. Seeing the turtles was a lovely surprise but only possible by the actions of our eagle eyed guide.”
Sail from Morro Jable on Magic Dolphin to spot dolphins and whales, enjoy included drinks, then swim in Jandía on a 2-hour cruise.
“Everything was just great! We saw dolphins, we were not lucky enough to see whales. But the trip was still great. Special thanks to the boat crew for the great mood😉”
Puerto Colón whale watching catamaran near Costa Adeje with free drinks, near-guaranteed pilot whales, and optional snorkeling at Playa Espagueti.
“Excellent crew saw plenty of pilot whales and bottle nose dolphins free drinks on board overall very good”
Speedboat dolphin and whale watching from Morro Jable plus a 30-minute snorkeling stop, equipment included, with pickup and guides.
“We have just returned from a great morning and were fortunate to see some dolphins which was incredible! Maurizio was a great guide, super friendly and enthusiastic and great with my little boy. Christina ensured a safe and smooth boat journey. We were picked up and dropped off at our hotel. Overall I can’t recommend this enough. Definitely worth booking.”
3-hour small-yacht cruise off Southern Tenerife for dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles, with snorkel time plus drinks and snacks.
“Had a fantastic day from hotel collection to being dropped off again. Maria was a fantastic host and very attentive. Raul ensured we got to stop in the best areas and we seen plenty of whales!!”
3-hour catamaran off Tenerife with a guide-led search for whales and dolphins, plus snacks, tapas, drinks, and swim time.
“Pick up from hotel on time friendly driver. The crew on board couldn't do enough for you. Very informative on pilot whales we saw a lot of whales. The tapas buffet was lovely and the all inclusive drinks great selection. Would definitely recommend this trip”
Sail on the Bahriyeli gulet from Los Cristianos to spot whales and dolphins responsibly, with Mount Teide views and expert guides.
“Very relaxed, saw the whales but no chasing. Take own drinks, was a counter but didn’t see anyone buying anything. Toilets on board but didn’t use. .”
2 hours from Costa Adeje on a small eco boat to spot whales and dolphins in Teno-Rasca, with hydrophone audio and free photos.
“This tour has many advantages that others don't have. It leaves when there is still parking available at the port. With a very fast boat and good connections with other boaters, you have the best chance of observing the animals. We got everything we wanted and more. Thank you very much!”
Cruise Tenerife’s southwest coast from Puerto Colón to spot whales and dolphins, with 16 underwater windows on a comfy catamaran.
“I had a wonderful experience with Whale and Dolphin Submarine Vision. From the start, the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making the whole trip smooth and enjoyable. A special mention to Anja, who stood out with her attentiveness and kindness throughout the journey. It was my sister’s birthday, and although she only noticed her birthday badge at the end of the trip, Anja still went out of her way to make the moment special by offering her a bottle of champagne. That thoughtful gesture truly made the day memorable for us. The team’s warmth and professionalism made this experience not only about seeing the amazing sea life but also…”
Sail past Los Gigantes cliffs on a small-group cruise for pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, plus drinks, snacks, and snorkeling time.
“We had a brilliant trip with Third Element. The guides were really friendly, interesting and knowledgeable, the boat itself was superb - it was great being part of a smaller group of 10 passengers rather than crammed into a large vessel. We also really enjoyed the food and drinks provided.”
2.5-hour dolphin and whale cruise from Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria, with a live guide, close-up sightings, and an onboard bar.
“Excellent, probably one of the best trips we have done. The crew were fantastic, so knowledgeable, friendly and helpful explaining everything and pointing out what to look for. It was so nice to see so many dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.”
Sail Tenerife like a Viking on Ragnarok, then hunt for whales and dolphins from Los Cristianos in a comfy 2-hour Atlantic cruise.
“We went with the viking schip. Looking for a fun tour instead of a informational one. we didn't see much sealife but some dolphins, no whales. The Guide was really fun. The music was great! We had a good time. The only thing I missed a bit was information about what kind of dolphin we saw.”
