3-hour excursion to Puerto Colón Adeje to see whales

Exploring the waters around Tenerife offers a chance to encounter some of the ocean’s most captivating creatures, and this 3-hour excursion from Puerto Colón to the coast of Adeje is designed to do just that. Operated by Ocean Blue Tenerife, the tour is aboard the Xixarron, an underwater vision boat that combines wildlife viewing with a little relaxation. With reviews averaging a solid 4.5 out of 5 from travelers, this adventure seems to strike a good balance between fun, education, and affordability. Priced at around $49.29 per person, it’s an experience that promises good value, especially given the chance to see whales, dolphins, and sea turtles up close, plus enjoy a swim in turquoise waters.

What I really like about this tour is the small group size—capped at 20 travelers—making it less chaotic than bigger cruises. The guides, some praised for their knowledgeable and friendly attitude, add a personal touch that enhances the overall experience. I also appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of snorkeling gear and free masks, allowing everyone to explore the underwater world without additional cost. On the flip side, potential travelers should keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent; if the sea’s rough or weather turns foul, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, which is standard for outdoor activities but worth noting.

One noteworthy feature from many reviews is the guides’ enthusiasm and explanations. For example, one reviewer mentioned a guide named Tara who went out of her way to make the trip memorable and informative. This helps elevate the experience from just a boat ride to a truly educational encounter with marine life. Plus, many guests praise the scenic coastline, especially as the boat returns along the beaches and coves of Adeje, offering perfect photo opportunities. This tour is a solid choice for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging glimpse into the marine life of Tenerife.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters: Expect to see pilot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat, with many reviews emphasizing close-up sightings.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Tara and others are praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and explanations of the marine species.
• Snorkeling included: The tour provides masks, snorkels, and blade fish for a refreshing swim in a turquoise cove, adding a fun, interactive element.
• Affordable and small-group: With a booking window typically of 7 days in advance, the tour offers great value and a more intimate experience compared to larger vessels.
• Spectacular coast views: The return journey along the beaches and natural coves of Adeje lets travelers enjoy scenic landscapes, perfect for photos.
• Weather dependent: As with all outdoor trips, poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling, so flexibility is key.

Detailed Review of the Experience

When you think about taking a boat trip in Tenerife, you’re probably imagining salty air, a sense of adventure, and lots of chances to see marine life. This 3-hour excursion from Puerto Colon starts with a straightforward meeting point on Avenida de Colón, making it easy to access either by taxi or public transportation. The boat, the Xixarron, is equipped with underwater vision, providing a good view of the marine environment below without getting your face wet—useful if you’re not an avid snorkeler but still want to observe fish and seabed details.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The trip kicks off with a 30-minute sail towards the island of Gomera, where the main goal is to spot pilot whales and dolphins in open water. Many travelers mention how seeing these mammals in their natural environment is a highlight—one reviewer, Dimitri, described the guides as “hyper welcoming” and appreciated how much effort they took in explaining the species, conditions of life, and behaviors. Several guests mention witnessing pilot whales just a few meters from the boat, which evokes a sense of wonder.

After the wildlife viewing segment, the boat heads into a small, tranquil cove with turquoise waters, perfect for a swim. The tour offers free masks, snorkels, and blade fish, so you can freely explore the seabed, looking at colorful fish and perhaps even a sea turtle—something one traveler, Melissameghzili, successfully spotted passing close to the boat. The guides’ attention to safety and clarity in instructions helps everyone feel comfortable, even if some are new to snorkeling.

The final part of the journey involves a scenic 30-minute return cruise along the coast of Adeje, where you’ll see beaches and natural coves. Many reviews highlight the stunning landscape views as a pleasant way to wind down and reflect on the day’s sights. Guides also share insights about the local coastline, adding an educational layer to the whole experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group size is a big plus—reviewers consistently mention that it feels more personal and less commercial than larger boat rides. SANDRINE_B, for instance, noted that “l’équipage au top” (the crew is top-notch), with lots of explanations that enhanced her understanding and enjoyment. The tour’s family-friendly nature means kids and adults alike will find plenty to enjoy, which is reflected in reviews from families with teenagers making priceless faces when dolphins leapt nearby.

The value for money is another aspect that gets high praise. For about $50, you’re not just paying for a boat ride but for a multi-sensory experience—wildlife watching, snorkeling, and coastal scenery all bundled into three hours. Tour guides, like Tara, go above and beyond to ensure everyone is engaged and informed, which many guests appreciate.

However, since the trip heavily depends on sea conditions, some travelers might find that on certain days, wildlife sightings could be limited or the boat might be restrained from going out. It’s a common consideration with outdoor excursions, but the company’s flexible cancellation policy helps mitigate this concern.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales and dolphins in the wild, as well as families looking for a day of fun and education. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate small, intimate groups rather than large crowds, and those who value guides with local knowledge that can enrich the experience. Because snorkeling gear is provided, it’s perfect for those who want a quick underwater encounter without the hassle of organizing their own equipment.

If you’re on a budget but still want a meaningful adventure, this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck. Be prepared for the possibility of short notice cancellations due to weather—an inherent aspect of outdoor marine trips—so having flexible plans is wise. Those who enjoy scenic coastal views and want a relaxing yet engaging outing will find this a worthwhile addition to their Tenerife itinerary.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—most travelers reserve about a week out, ensuring your spot on this popular trip.
• Arrive early at the meeting point on Avenida de Colón for a smooth start.
• Dress comfortably and bring a hat and sunscreen, as you’ll be exposed to the sun during the cruise.
• Bring your own snacks if you want extra treats beyond what’s provided; many reviews mention enjoying a snack during the trip.
• Prepare for possible cancellations—check the weather forecast and be flexible with your schedule.
• Consider your comfort level—if you’re not comfortable in open water, note that snorkeling is optional but available.
• Group size matters—smaller groups tend to have more personalized attention, which enhances the experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. Many reviews mention children enjoying the trip, especially the chance to see dolphins and whales. The tour is family-friendly and suitable for most travelers.

Are food and drinks included?
The tour includes snacks during the stop in the cove but doesn’t specify full meals or drinks. It’s advisable to bring your own if you want more substantial refreshments.

What wildlife might I see?
Most likely, pilot whales and dolphins, with some reports of sea turtles passing nearby. The guides are knowledgeable and explain details about each species.

How long do the whale and dolphin sightings last?
Wildlife encounters depend on the day’s conditions, but many guests mention seeing whales up close and in good numbers. The first leg of the trip is dedicated to wildlife observation.

Can I snorkel if I don’t know how?
Yes. Masks and snorkels are provided, and guides tend to give instructions to beginners, making it accessible for first-timers.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What is the meeting point?
The activity starts at Av. de Colón, 4, Costa Adeje—easy to reach via public transportation or taxis.

What if the weather is bad?
Tour confirmation is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there any special equipment needed?
Not really. Snorkeling gear is provided; bring your own if desired, and dress comfortably for a boat trip.

In the end, this 3-hour whale watching tour from Puerto Colón offers a well-rounded experience—balancing wildlife encounters, scenic coastlines, and snorkeling in a way that feels natural and personal. It’s a cost-effective way to connect with the marine life of Tenerife, especially if you enjoy smaller groups and knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about the environment. While weather can influence the day’s success, the reviews suggest that most travelers come away delighted, often with unforgettable moments of dolphins surfing the bow or sea turtles gliding nearby. Perfect for nature lovers and families alike, this trip manages to combine leisure, education, and a touch of adventure into a memorable Tenerife outing.