Lanzarote: Dolphin Watching by speedboat

A Quick Look at Lanzarote’s Dolphin Watching by Speedboat

If you’re dreaming of a quick maritime escape around Lanzarote, a dolphin watching tour by speedboat offers a lively and intimate way to connect with the sea. Operating from the Old Port of Puerto del Carmen, this 2 to 2.5-hour adventure is designed for small groups—typically just 12 people—making it more personalized than larger cruises. While sightings of dolphins aren’t guaranteed, the fun is in the speed, the scenery, and the chance to see a variety of marine life, from birds to turtles.

What really stands out about this experience are two things: First, how close you can get to the ocean’s inhabitants thanks to the smaller, faster boat. And second, the expertise of guides who seem as enthusiastic as the travelers, eager to answer questions and share stories about the local marine ecosystem. I also appreciate how it offers great value for the price, considering the inclusion of transportation, water, and a life jacket.

That said, a potential consideration is the weather—since the tour is entirely at sea, hot days can lead to sunburns, as one traveler pointed out, so packing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses is a smart move. Also, if you’re hoping for a guaranteed dolphin sighting, be aware that nature doesn’t always cooperate—and sightings depend on luck and timing.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 people, creating an intimate, less crowded experience.
• Marine Diversity: Opportunities to see dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and other sea creatures, even if sightings aren’t guaranteed.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew like the one described as “cool” who are happy to answer questions.
• Value and Inclusion: Price covers transportation, water, life jackets, and the captain, making it straightforward and transparent.
• Weather Consideration: Expect the heat and sun—bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Unpredictable Wildlife: Sighting of dolphins or other creatures depends on the day, so patience is key.

If you’ve ever watched dolphins play in the wild through a glass bottom boat or a marina, you’ll know that the real thrill comes from seeing them in their natural environment—free, wild, and often unpredictable. This Lanzarote speedboat tour offers exactly that, a chance to get out on the water and possibly catch a glimpse of these playful creatures.

While the activity is marketed as a dolphin safari, it’s more of a lively, small-group marine experience that also provides chances to see turtles, seabirds, and other marine life. The departure point from Puerto del Carmen’s Old Port ensures easy access, and the boat’s limited capacity keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

Two things I really like about this tour: First, the small group size means you’re not just another face in a crowd. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and enjoy a more personal connection with the crew, who are clearly passionate about the sea. Second, the speed and agility of the boat—a RIB (rigid inflatable boat)—mean you’re zipping over the water, which adds a fun, adrenaline-filled element that’s perfect for families, friends, or anyone craving a quick-paced adventure.

One consideration is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. As one reviewer pointed out, “we didn’t see any dolphins, but the sea birds were flying all around us,” which is a reminder that wildlife is unpredictable. Still, the experience of the ride itself, with its lively waves and opportunities to see other sea creatures, makes it worthwhile even without a dolphin sighting.

Exploring the Details: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Experience Itself:
You’ll hop aboard the Waverider, an agile speedboat, and set out from the Old Port of Puerto del Carmen. The ride lasts around two hours, which is just enough to keep the thrill alive without wearing you out. The crew, including the captain, is eager to share insights into the marine ecosystem, making this a learning experience as well as a fun one.

Wildlife Watching:
Most travelers hope for dolphins—who wouldn’t?—but you might also see birds, turtles, and a variety of other marine animals. The boat’s speed allows it to cover good ground quickly, increasing chances of sightings, although nature remains unpredictable. One reviewer noted how a guide “whipped over the waves” and stopped accurately to retrieve a flying-off hat, showing how lively and fun the ride can be.

Comfort and Safety:
The tour provides life jackets, water, and transportation, simplifying logistics. However, it’s wise to come prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats—the sun can be intense, and a sunburn days later isn’t unusual, according to reviews. Notably, there’s a small extra fee for pickup and drop-off if you prefer more convenience, which adds to the overall value.

Language and Accessibility:
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish, accommodating international visitors. The tour is not suitable for children under 2 or pregnant women, but for most others, it’s a lively, family-friendly outing.

Who Will Love This Tour and Why

This experience is perfect for travelers who are eager to spend quality time on the water, enjoy a sense of adventure, and don’t mind that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking a more personal, less commercial vibe. If you’re a family with older children, a group of friends wanting a quick adrenaline rush, or even a solo traveler looking to connect with nature, this tour hits the right note.

However, if your primary goal is to see dolphins, keep in mind that nature can be unpredictable. The thrill of the ride, combined with the chance to see other sea creatures and learn from passionate guides, makes this more than just a wildlife tour—it’s a full-blown sea adventure.

Value-wise, considering that transportation, water, safety gear, and the guidance are included, it offers good bang for your buck. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience, making it more immersive and fun.

At around 2 hours long, the tour is priced competitively for Lanzarote’s small-boat, wildlife-focused excursions. While spotting dolphins isn’t guaranteed, the fun of zipping across the waves and the chance to see a variety of marine life make it a worthwhile outing. The tour departs from Puerto del Carmen, with flexible starting times depending on the day, and the option to reserve and pay later provides flexibility for travelers managing their itineraries.

Keep in mind the weather—hot sun and wind can lead to sunburns or dehydration. Pack accordingly, and arrive about 15 minutes early to meet your guide and board comfortably.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Lanzarote dolphin watching tour offers an energetic, intimate, and educational way to spend a couple of hours on the water. It’s best suited for those who value the experience itself—speed, small groups, expert guides—over guaranteed wildlife sightings. For nature lovers who enjoy a quick thrill and a chance to see the diverse marine ecosystem, it’s a solid choice.

The sense of adventure, combined with the stories and knowledge shared by guides like “the cool crew,” creates a memorable outing that adds a splash of excitement to any Lanzarote itinerary. While the weather and luck influence whether dolphins appear, the overall experience remains engaging, fun, and worth the price.

If you’re looking for a lively, small-group marine adventure with the possibility of seeing dolphins, turtles, and seabirds, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially good for those who enjoy speed and a bit of unpredictability. Families with children over 2 years old, friends, and solo travelers who want an authentic sea experience will find plenty to love here.

Keep in mind that packing sun protection and arriving prepared is essential. If your main goal is dolphin sightings, be aware that Mother Nature’s timing is everything. But if you’re after a fun, quick, and engaging outing on the water—this tour delivers that in spades.

FAQ

Are dolphins guaranteed to be seen on this tour?
No, dolphin sightings depend on the day’s conditions and wildlife activity. While the chance is good, it’s not guaranteed.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water. The sun can be intense, and a bit of protection makes a big difference.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old. For older kids, it’s a fun, lively ride, but keep in mind the boat speeds and outdoor exposure.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on conditions.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is transportation included?
Transportation is included if you opt for the pickup service, which costs an extra fee.

What’s the boat like?
The boat, called the Waverider, is an agile RIB, perfect for quick trips and high-speed zipping over the water.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food isn’t included, so bring snacks if needed. Water is provided on the boat.

What if I don’t see any wildlife?
While sightings are common, they’re not guaranteed. The ride is still exhilarating, and you might see seabirds and other marine animals along the way.

This lively speedboat trip in Lanzarote offers a genuinely fun way to explore the marine environment with a good chance of wildlife sightings, energetic guides, and a small-group atmosphere. Perfect for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.