Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching in their natural habitat. There is no need to travel to the Arctic or any exotic destination. Just a few minutes by boat from the south coast of the island, these creatures swim freely in deep, crystal-clear waters throughout the year.
In this post I’ll tell you everything you need to know before you go: which species you can see, where the boats depart from, which vessel to choose and what to expect during the excursion.
Why is Tenerife so special for whale and dolphin watching?
The marine channel between Tenerife and La Gomera is one of the richest ecosystems in the Atlantic. Its deep waters reach more than 1,000 metres just a short distance from the coast. That is why they offer the perfect conditions for cetaceans of different species to live here permanently or pass through on their migratory routes.
Unlike other destinations where sightings depend on the season, in Tenerife you can see whales and dolphins practically any day of the year. That makes it one of the few places on the planet where this experience is almost guaranteed.
The most common species are the short-finned pilot whale — a medium-sized whale that lives in these waters all year round — and the bottlenose dolphin. Moreover, depending on the time of year, it is also possible to spot striped dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales and even orcas.
Which type of vessel should you choose?
In Tenerife there is a wide variety of vessels for this excursion. On one hand, you will find large boats with capacity for hundreds of passengers. On the other, there are private charters exclusively for groups of up to eleven people. Each option offers a different experience and the choice depends on what you are looking for: price, privacy, comfort or a closer connection with nature.
Large boats
Large boats and catamarans are the most popular and affordable option. They have capacity for between 50 and 150 passengers, feature a spacious deck area and an on-board bar. In addition, they usually include snorkelling and drinks in the price. They are a good option for families with children or for those looking for a good-value excursion with a lively atmosphere.
Small vessels and private charters
For a more personalised and exclusive experience, there are small vessels and private charters with capacity for up to eleven people. On this type of excursion the boat is just for your group — no other tourists and no rush. The skipper can manoeuvre with complete freedom to get close to the animals, and dolphins often approach the bow just metres away.
Without doubt, this is the ideal option for couples, groups of friends or families looking for something more than a standard excursion — an intimate and memorable experience in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Luxury yacht — Freebird
One of the most special options is the Freebird — a luxury yacht that combines the excitement of whale and dolphin watching with the comfort of a premium vessel. With small groups and personalised attention, the experience is hard to match.
Furthermore, the excursion on board the Freebird includes food, fresh water and beers. Everything is on board so you don’t have to worry about a thing and can enjoy every moment on the water to the fullest.
Watch what the experience on board the Freebird looks like:
Snorkelling and swimming in the open sea
In addition to the sightings, most excursions include a stop in a calm bay for snorkelling and swimming. The waters off the south coast are clear all year round. The sea temperature ranges from 18°C in winter to 25°C in summer.
On the other hand, the seabed in this area is rich in fish, rays and other Atlantic species. With a snorkel mask and a few minutes in the water, the spectacle continues below the surface.
Where do the boats depart from?
Most vessels depart from Puerto Colón in Las Américas. However, there are also departures from Los Gigantes and from the port of Playa San Juan. All three ports are located on the southwest coast of Tenerife, which is the area with the highest concentration of cetaceans.
If you are staying in the north of the island — such as in Puerto de la Cruz — it is well worth heading south for this excursion. That is why I recommend it to all travellers, regardless of where they are staying. It is one of the most unique experiences Tenerife has to offer.
How to book?
For this excursion I work with Atlántico Excursiones, a trusted company with a wide selection of vessels in Tenerife — large boats, private charters and luxury yachts. Moreover, you can browse all the available options and choose the one that best suits your group.
