Sealife Dolphin & Whale Watching aboard Portuguese schooner

Exploring Tenerife’s Marine Life: A Dive into the Sealife Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour

Imagine setting sail on a beautiful Portuguese wooden schooner off Tenerife’s coast, hunting for pods of dolphins and whales shimmering in the Atlantic. This particular tour offers a romantic and authentic sailing experience that isn’t just about spotting marine mammals — it’s about soaking in the sea’s atmosphere and enjoying a tasty onboard lunch. I’ve looked into this trip, which boasts a solid 4.5-star rating from six reviews, and I’ll share what makes it a worthwhile choice — as well as some points to consider before booking.

One thing I really like about this adventure is its understated charm. The schooner itself is a piece of sailing history, built in Portugal and carrying the stories of pirates and explorers. It’s a step away from the typical catamaran or large cruise, offering a more intimate and scenic experience. Plus, the fact that food and drinks are included saves you the hassle of packing snacks or worrying about extra costs — a real bonus for families and casual travelers alike.

However, a possible drawback is the duration — about two hours — which might feel a tad brief if you’re eager to spend more time in the water or watching whales. Also, the experience depends heavily on the weather and marine activity; if the seas are rough or cetaceans aren’t in sight, your trip might be less thrilling. That said, most reviews mention successful sightings and enjoyable moments, making it a solid choice for those seeking a balanced adventure.

Key points/Takeaways

• Authentic Portuguese schooner: A beautifully maintained vessel that adds a nostalgic maritime feel.
• Marine wildlife focus: Designed specifically to spot whales and dolphins, with good chances to see them.
• All-inclusive experience: Food, drinks, and even the boat’s open bar make it easy and relaxed.
• Ideal for families & casual travelers: Especially those who appreciate a laid-back, scenic outing.
• Good value for money: At around $56.67, you get roughly two hours of sailing, wildlife viewing, and a meal.
• Limited time frame: Short trips mean you should be prepared for a quick but memorable experience.

When I picture a day on the water in Tenerife, this tour immediately comes to mind. Launched from the lively port of Los Cristianos, it begins with your boarding of a charming Portuguese schooner — a vessel that’s not only beautiful but steeped in maritime lore. The boat’s design evokes the spirit of the last century, making the whole journey feel like you’re stepping into a storybook.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Departure:
You’ll meet at the Puerto Colón Marina in Costa Adeje, a hub that’s easy to reach and full of lively cafes and shops. The trip kicks off at 10:00 am, a good time to make sure you’re well-rested and ready for two hours of sailing adventure. The group size is capped at 60, which keeps it manageable and more intimate, although on busy days you might find it feeling slightly crowded.

Sailing and Wildlife Spotting:
Once underway, your captain and crew—whose names aren’t specified but are praised for their explanations—set course toward the pilot whales colony and dolphin hotspots. The goal? To give you the best chance of seeing these playful mammals in their natural habitat. Many reviewers mention successful sightings—from dolphins leaping beside the boat to whales breaching in the distance. One guest even shared a story of the crew jumping in to save a turtle, adding a touch of heroism to the day.

The Atmosphere Aboard:
The schooner offers an upper deck ideal for sunbathing and relaxing, along with a large central table where you can enjoy the included lunch. The open bar is a nice perk, especially if you’re in the mood for a cold drink while admiring the Atlantic’s vastness. The boat’s ambiance is lively but laid-back, with maritime stories and pirate tales fueling the adventure.

Post-Wildlife & Water Activities:
After the whale and dolphin sightings, the vessel anchors off the coast, giving you the chance to swim and enjoy the open waters. The included lunch, which has garnered praise for its quality, features delicious local flavors—reputedly with a tapas-style spread that many guests describe as “superb,” including rice, chicken, salads, and bread. This is a wonderful way to unwind and refuel while soaking up the sun and ocean breeze.

Return Journey:
Once lunch and swimming are complete, the schooner heads back to Los Cristianos, giving you a relaxed and scenic journey home. The entire trip wraps up around 12:00 pm, just in time to explore more of Tenerife or relax after your maritime adventure.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for families with children, as many reviews highlight how the crew went the extra mile, including helping to rescue a turtle — an exciting story for kids. It’s also great for couples or anyone who appreciates a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of history and wildlife. If you’re seeking a short, well-organized trip that combines wildlife spotting, good food, and a charming vessel, this tour hits the mark.

The Practical Details: Logistics and Value

Pricing at $56.67 per person feels reasonable when you consider the included features: a two-hour sailing, wildlife sightings, lunch, and drinks. The mobile ticket system simplifies booking, and most travelers book about nine days in advance, which suggests good availability if you plan ahead.

Departure at 10:00 am allows you to enjoy the morning and perhaps explore the port area before the trip. The maximum group size of 60 balances social interaction and space, avoiding the overly crowded feeling some large tours have. Cancellation policies are flexible, offering a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, which is convenient for uncertain weather conditions.

Weather & Season Considerations

Since this tour depends on good weather and marine activity, it’s wise to check local conditions closer to your scheduled date. If the sea is rough or cetaceans are just not in the mood, the crew will offer an alternative date or a full refund, easing any worries.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families seeking a fun day out, and those who appreciate authentic sailing vessels. If you’re looking for a quick but memorable trip with good food, friendly crew, and guaranteed scenic views, this experience ticks those boxes. However, if you’re craving a longer or more intense adventure, you might want to look into other options.

For travelers who want a relaxed but engaging maritime experience in Tenerife, this dolphin and whale watching cruise aboard a Portuguese schooner offers a fine balance of authenticity, comfort, and entertainment. The beautiful vessel, combined with the chance to see marine mammals in their natural habitat, makes for a memorable outing. The included lunch adds to the value, turning a simple wildlife cruise into a full sensory experience.

What’s especially appealing is the storytelling aspect—the boat’s history, pirate tales, and local legends—making it more than just a wildlife hunt. Instead, it becomes a journey back in time, set against the stunning backdrop of Tenerife’s coast.

If you’re traveling with family, want a gentle cruise with opportunities to swim or relax, or simply prefer a smaller, more personable boat, this trip could be a perfect fit. It’s also a smart choice for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with good local food in a laid-back setting.

The only caveat is that the two-hour duration might leave some wanting more, especially if marine life is scarce. But with most reviews reporting successful sightings and a positive atmosphere, it’s a risk worth taking—particularly if you’re after a charming, authentic sailing experience that captures the spirit of Tenerife’s waters.

How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately two hours, starting at 10:00 am from Puerto Colón Marina.

Is food included?
Yes, lunch is provided, featuring local dishes like rice, chicken, salads, and bread, with an open bar to enjoy during the trip.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
Most travelers do see dolphins and whales, with reports of successful sightings, but it depends on marine activity and weather that day.

What should I bring?
Since food and drinks are included, just bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera for photos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, many reviews highlight how welcoming and fun it is for families, especially with crew members going the extra mile.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, with options for rescheduling or refunds if the weather cancels the trip.

In the end, this Sealife Dolphin & Whale Watching tour aboard a Portuguese schooner offers a charming, family-friendly way to experience Tenerife’s waters, combining wildlife, history, and excellent food. It’s a solid choice if you value a relaxed pace, authentic vessel, and good value. Just remember to wear sun protection, bring your patience, and enjoy the chance to see some of the ocean’s most playful residents.