Puerto Colon: Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip

A Closer Look at the Puerto Colon Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of pilot whales, dolphins, and maybe even a turtle while soaking up the sun in the Canary Islands, this 3-hour boat excursion from Puerto Colon might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture: it’s a relaxing, value-packed way to see some of the Atlantic’s most charming marine creatures and enjoy stunning coastal scenery.

What I love most about this experience is the small-group setting—limited to just 10 participants—which guarantees a more personal and relaxed vibe. Plus, the chance to swim in the Atlantic at a secluded cove, combined with the onboard food and drinks, makes it feel like a mini getaway rather than just a tour. Another highlight: the expert guides, who communicate with other captains to maximize your chances of spotting whales and dolphins.

A potential consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan to meet outside the operator’s office at Puerto Colon. Also, since the tour uses multiple boats, if you want to be on the same vessel as friends or family, you should specify this when booking. It’s a small detail, but one that can improve your experience if you’re traveling with companions.

This trip offers a balanced combination of nature watching, scenic beauty, and comfort. With good reviews praising the wildlife sightings, the friendly atmosphere, and the value for money, it’s easy to see why this is a popular choice for travelers wanting an authentic maritime adventure in Tenerife.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small-group format ensures a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.
• Wildlife sightings typically include dolphins, pilot whales, turtles, and sometimes larger whales.
• Expert communication between boat captains increases chances of viewing marine life.
• Snacks, drinks, and snorkel equipment are included, providing on-board comfort and fun.
• Secluded cove swimming offers a relaxing break with crystal-clear waters.
• No hotel transfer means you need to meet at the departure point in Puerto Colon.

Discovering the Marine Life and Scenic Vistas of Tenerife

Planning a trip to Tenerife, especially for wildlife lovers or those simply wanting to enjoy the Atlantic’s charm, this whale and dolphin watching yacht trip offers a terrific day out. The experience centers on a 3-hour cruise starting from Puerto Colon, the bustling hub of water-based excursions on the island.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Your adventure begins outside the operator’s office in Puerto Colon, ideally 15 minutes early. Once aboard your small boat, you’ll glide out into the Atlantic, with Costa Adeje and the surrounding coastlines providing a stunning backdrop. The scenery here is a photographer’s dream—dramatic cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and cozy seaside towns line the coast, all visible from the water.

The boat cruise itself lasts about three hours, a good length to balance wildlife watching and relaxation. In the reviews, many mention seeing dolphins and pilot whales, sometimes quite close, thanks to the crew’s efforts and communication with other boats. One traveler, Kay, noted the trip was “fantastic,” with sightings of dolphins, whales, and even a turtle diving — a reminder of how dynamic and unpredictable marine life can be.

Wildlife Encounters: The Main Attraction

The central allure of this trip is the opportunity to see pilot whales, which are renowned for their gentle nature and striking appearance. Dolphins are common, often seen leaping alongside the boat, making for lively and joyful moments. A few reviews highlight the crew’s dedication: “There was communication with other captains to help where they were, so it was guaranteed to be seen,” according to Corrina.

While marine life sightings can’t be guaranteed, the experienced crew’s efforts and the area’s known wildlife activity mean your chances are high. The presence of turtles is also possible, which adds a special touch for nature enthusiasts.

The Secluded Cove and Swimming Break

After the wildlife search, your boat will head to a secluded cove. This is a highlight for many—an opportunity to swim in the Atlantic’s clear waters. You’ll find yourself in a peaceful, less crowded spot where you can relax, snorkel, or simply soak up the sunshine. Snacks and drinks are served on board, which many reviews praise as “good value,” including sandwiches and refreshments, making the experience feel more like a leisurely outing than a rushed tour.

Comfort and Convenience: What Makes It Stand Out

The small group size—limited to just 10 travelers—means you won’t be jostling for space or feeling like just another face in a crowd. Many travelers, like Kara, mentioned how comfortable and enjoyable the trip was, noting that the small group and close encounters with whales made it memorable. The snorkel equipment included allows you to explore underwater at your own pace.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $56 per person, this experience offers good value, considering the inclusions of food, drinks, and snorkeling gear. It’s a reasonably priced way to experience marine wildlife, scenic views, and relaxing swimming, all within a manageable three-hour window. The fact that you can reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially if your plans are still fluid.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re eager to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, this tour is a solid choice. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy small-group settings, casual outings, and scenic boat trips. The inclusion of food and snorkeling makes it appealing for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. However, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the tour isn’t suitable for them.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Meet outside the operator’s office 15 minutes before departure.
• Bring sun protection, including a sun hat, sunglasses, and biodegradable sunscreen.
• Pack swimwear and a towel for the swimming stop.
• Specify if you want to be on the same boat as friends, especially if booking multiple trips.
• Remember, hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• The tour runs in a small group—expect a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, wildlife-focused outing with lots of chances to see marine life up close. It caters well to those who enjoy scenic boat rides and underwater exploration, thanks to the snorkel gear. It’s also a great value, providing food and drinks along with the chance to unwind in a beautiful setting.

However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure, or if you have mobility constraints, this might not be the best fit. Similarly, if you prefer larger ships or more structured tours, other options might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

The Puerto Colon whale and dolphin watching yacht trip balances adventure, comfort, and value. It offers an authentic connection to the Atlantic’s marine environment, with a small-group vibe that enhances the experience. The combination of wildlife sightings, scenic coastlines, and a relaxing swimming stop makes it an excellent addition to any Tenerife itinerary.

If you’re hoping to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat without the crowds, this tour delivers. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear means you’re well taken care of during your time on the water.

For travelers eager for an authentic, fun, and scenic ocean adventure—especially wildlife lovers—this trip is worth considering. Just remember to meet on time, protect yourself from the sun, and keep your camera ready—those dolphin leaps are hard to catch!

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks? No, food and drinks are provided on board, including sandwiches and refreshments.

Is hotel pickup available? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet outside the operator’s office in Puerto Colon 15 minutes before departure.

Are snorkeling masks included? Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for you to explore the waters at the secluded cove.

How long is the tour? The entire trip lasts approximately 3 hours, including wildlife spotting and swimming stops.

Can I book for a large group? The tour is limited to 10 participants, so it’s best suited for small groups; specify your group size when booking.

What if I want to be on the same boat as friends? Make sure to mention this at booking time, as the tour uses multiple boats, and this ensures you’ll all be together.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s suitable for most ages, but note that it’s not recommended for people over 95 years old or wheelchair users.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing, swimwear, and a sun hat are recommended, along with biodegradable sunscreen.

What’s the most likely wildlife I will see? Dolphins and pilot whales are the most common, with turtles sometimes spotted. Marine life sightings depend on the day’s conditions.

In essence, this yacht trip from Puerto Colon offers a genuine chance to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment, all while enjoying scenic views and small-group intimacy. If marine wildlife and ocean scenery are on your wish list, it’s a trip worth considering.