Savvy travelers to La Palma find the best values in its maritime excursions. The standout choice is the whale and dolphin watching tour – a compact few-hour trip that hugs the dramatic coastline. We love the intimate 12-passenger boat from Tarajal for its personal touch and excellent spotting opportunities. For convenience, reliable transfer services connect hotels to cruise ports and airports via modern, air-conditioned vehicles. Independent spirits should consider the private south-central island tour, which offers flexibility and local insights.
Let’s explore the most rewarding boat tours La Palma has to offer.
Key Points
- The Dolphin and Whale Cruise offers marine life sightings, including views of Cueva Bonita and Playa de La Veta, for $65.92 per person.
- The Boat Trip Along Northwest Coast provides an intimate experience with a maximum of 12 travelers, showcasing the rugged coastline and marine life for €61.20 per person.
- The Private Transfer to Cruise Port service offers air-conditioned vehicle transportation from/to the Puerto de Santa Cruz de La Palma with accessibility features for €130.00 per person.
- The Special Cruise Tour Center and South private tour includes a guide, transportation, and tips, with pickup from the Puerto de Santa Cruz de La Palma for £232.46 for up to 4 people.
- The Private Transfer to and from Airport service provides air-conditioned vehicle transportation from the La Palma Airport to the cruise port for $98.02 per person.
La Palma Dolphin and Whale Cruise
Safari Cumbre Vieja offers travelers a chance to witness the majestic marine life around La Palma’s northern shores on their dolphin and whale cruise.
The professional crew increases the chances of sighting cetaceans and exploring the coastline, including Cueva Bonita and Playa de La Veta. The tour lasts a few hours, providing unobstructed views of the island’s coast and sea caves.
Priced from $65.92 per person with free cancellation, the cruise includes complimentary bottled water and soda. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
Reviews highlight knowledgeable crew and marine life sightings, though some mention overcrowding and perceived value concerns.
Read our full review: La Palma Dolphin and Whale Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Boat Trip Along the Northwest Coast of La Palma
Travelers seeking a captivating boat tour along La Palma’s picturesque northwest coast can embark on a memorable excursion.
This highly-rated, 93%-recommended tour takes guests on a journey through the island’s breathtaking scenery. Departing from Tarajal, the tour cruises along the rugged coastline, offering underwater vision and the chance to spot whales and dolphins.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the intimate experience includes snacks, sodas, and lifejackets. Accessible by public transportation, the tour lasts from 11 am to an unspecified return time to the starting point.
Priced at €61.20 per person, the tour can be booked with a secure, flexible reservation system, allowing travelers to secure their spot in advance.
Read our full review: Boat Trip Along the Northwest Coast of La Palma Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer – La Palma Island Hotels to La Palma Cruise Port
For those needing a convenient way to get from their La Palma island hotel to the cruise port, a private transfer service is available.
This air-conditioned vehicle service includes all fees and taxes, with 24/7 pickup from selected hotels. Customers should provide their preferred pickup time, luggage count, cruise ship name, and terminal number when booking.
The drop-off location is at the Puerto de Santa Cruz de La Palma. This private tour is stroller accessible, allows service animals, and has infant seats available.
Priced from €130.00 per person, the transfer service has free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Private Transfer – La Palma Island Hotels to La Palma Cruise Port Review
Book now: Check availability
Special Cruise Tour Center and South La Palma (Price per Car Not per Person)
This special cruise tour takes travelers on a journey through the captivating center and southern regions of La Palma.
Priced at £232.46 per group (up to 4 people), it’s a private tour offering a personalized experience.
The tour includes a guide, transportation, and tips, with infant seats and service animals allowed.
Pickup is from Puerto de Santa Cruz de La Palma, and the tour operates daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
Safety measures are in place, including sanitized vehicles and wheelchair/stroller accessibility.
Guests can book with confidence, as the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Special Cruise Tour Center and South La Palma (Price per Car Not per Person) Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer – La Palma Airport (SPC) to La Palma Cruise Port
A private transfer service is available to transport travelers from La Palma Airport (SPC) to the La Palma Cruise Port.
The air-conditioned vehicle includes all fees and taxes, and pickup is available 24/7. Travelers can confirm their preferred pickup time and luggage details during booking.
The service offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience starts. While not wheelchair accessible, the service allows strollers and service animals. Infant seats are available.
Priced from $98.02 per person, this private tour is the lowest price guarantee and can be booked with a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Private Transfer – La Palma Airport (SPC) to La Palma Cruise Port Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer – La Palma Cruise Port to La Palma Island Hotels
Travelers arriving at the La Palma Cruise Port can book a private transfer service to take them directly to their hotel on the island.
The service provides air-conditioned, fully licensed and insured transportation, equipped to handle various weather conditions and sports equipment.
Pickups take place at the Puerto de Santa Cruz de La Palma, and drivers will hold a signboard with the lead traveler’s name.
Passengers should advise the number of luggage, cruise vessel, and terminal number during booking.
The transfer service isn’t wheelchair accessible but does accommodate strollers and service animals.
Infant seats are available.
Customers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Private Transfer – La Palma Cruise Port to La Palma Island Hotels Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Transfer – La Palma Cruise Port to La Palma Airport (SPC)
Departing from the La Palma Cruise Port, travelers can book a private transfer service to conveniently reach the La Palma Airport (SPC).
This air-conditioned, private transportation option costs from $98.02 per person and is available 24/7. Passengers can request their preferred pickup time, provide details on luggage and cruise ship information during booking.
The service is stroller-accessible, allows service animals, and has infant seats available. Travelers should confirm the drop-off time with the local provider in advance.
Bookings offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option.
This private transfer is the ideal way to travel from the cruise port to the airport.
Read our full review: Private Transfer – La Palma Cruise Port to La Palma Airport (SPC) Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Generally, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or prefer that guests purchase refreshments on board.
Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour operators don’t have specific age or height restrictions, but they may have safety guidelines for young children. It’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for your entire group.
How Long Do the Boat Tours Typically Last?
The boat tours typically last between 1-3 hours, depending on the specific tour. Many offer a range of durations to suit different preferences and schedules. It’s best to check the tour details when booking.
Are the Boat Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The boat tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with some boats offering designated seating areas and staff assistance for boarding. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm accessibility and make any necessary arrangements.
Can I Book the Boat Tours in Advance Online?
Yes, you can typically book boat tours online in advance. This allows you to secure your spot and avoid potential sellouts, especially during peak season. Many tour providers offer online booking through their websites for added convenience.
The Sum Up
La Palma offers an array of boat tours and cruises for visitors. From dolphin and whale watching excursions to private transfers between the cruise port and island hotels or airport, there are numerous options to explore the island’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re seeking a group adventure or a personalized experience, La Palma’s boat tours and cruises provide an excellent way to discover the natural beauty of this Canary Island.