Getting up close with dolphins in Tenerife is straightforward and memorable. The island’s best tours run small groups (7-24 people) aboard catamarans, sailboats, or kayaks, with prices starting at $32 per person. Most include snacks, drinks, and equipment.
We especially like the eco-conscious operators who prioritize marine conservation while delivering informative commentary about local sea life. The morning catamaran tours earn our highest marks for their intimate atmosphere and educational value, while kayak excursions offer adventurous types a more active experience.
Let’s explore the top dolphin watching experiences in Tenerife, each thoroughly tested and evaluated.
Good To Know
- Tenerife offers a variety of high-quality dolphin watching tours, ranging from intimate sailing adventures to larger eco-yacht excursions.
- Small-group whale and dolphin watching tours, with maximum group sizes of 8 to 24 participants, are the most popular options.
- Eco-focused tours emphasize sustainable practices and provide educational insights on local marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- Prices for dolphin watching tours in Tenerife generally range from €32 to €55 per person, with discounts available for children and larger groups.
- Highly-rated tours, such as Whale and Dolphin Watching EcoAdventure and SEA SAFARI Dolphins, Whales, consistently receive excellent reviews and traveler recommendations.
Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching Los Gigantes
The Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching in Los Gigantes takes participants on an immersive journey to spot marine wildlife in the waters off Tenerife.
This highly-rated 3-hour tour, recommended by 95% of travelers, allows groups of up to 9 people to observe pilot whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and snacks and drinks are served during the excursion. Guests can capture stunning views of the Los Gigantes cliffs from the water.
While some challenges have been noted regarding language barriers, the captain’s professionalism and the intimate, eco-friendly atmosphere make this a memorable experience for those seeking a unique ocean adventure.
Read our full review: Small Group Excursion Whales and Dolphin Watching Los Gigantes Review
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Small-Group Whale and Dolphin-Watching Tour by Catamaran – Tenerife
Although nestled along the picturesque Tenerife coastline, this small-group whale and dolphin-watching tour by catamaran offers an immersive encounter with the island’s marine life.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 500 reviews, the half-day cruise provides ample opportunities to spot pilot whales, dolphins, and turtles. Guests can enjoy tapas-style snacks, drinks, and even a swim stop during the relaxing experience, which accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers.
While some reviews mention the boat feeling overcrowded, the crew’s attentiveness and knowledge have been widely praised.
With hotel pickup options and free cancellation, this tour is a convenient and highly recommended way to witness Tenerife’s wildlife from the water.
Read our full review: Small-Group Whale and Dolphin-Watching Tour by Catamaran – Tenerife Review
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Tenerife Half-Day Dolphin-Watching and Swimming Boat Tour
Offering travelers an immersive dolphin-watching and swimming experience, the Tenerife Half-Day Dolphin-Watching and Swimming Boat Tour departs from Costa Adeje at 10:30 AM for a 5-hour excursion.
With a maximum capacity of 74 travelers, the tour is recommended by 99% of participants and boasts a 4.9-star average rating from 168 reviews.
The crew consists of a skipper and two sailors, who provide live commentary and serve a menu of rice with chicken/vegetables, fresh fruit, wine, beer, and soft drinks.
While some travelers note room for improvement in food variety and seating comfort, the overall experience is praised for its stunning views of the Masca cliffs and abundant dolphin sightings.
Read our full review: Tenerife Half-Day Dolphin-Watching and Swimming Boat Tour Review
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Royal Delfin – 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise
Departing from Playa de la Américas, the Royal Delfin – 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the marine life of Tenerife’s waters.
Aboard a custom-built catamaran with panoramic underwater windows, passengers can spot bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and migrating humpback whales. The cruise also provides scenic views of Tenerife’s rugged coastline.
Onboard amenities include a restroom, snacks and drinks, and wheelchair accessibility. Travelers should arrive at least 30 minutes early for boarding at Puerto Colon, Pier 12.
While some reviewers have experienced seasickness, most found the trip enjoyable and worth the starting price of $32.17 per person.
Read our full review: Royal Delfin – 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise Review
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Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing From Tenerife South
The Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South provides travelers with an intimate, personalized marine life exploration.
With a maximum of 7 passengers, this small-group experience offers the chance to spot whales and dolphins in a relaxed atmosphere. The experienced crew is knowledgeable about the best sighting locations, and guests can enjoy snorkeling, snacks, and breakfast on board.
Reviewers praise the beautiful scenery, close wildlife encounters, and attentive service.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as the allowance of service animals, make this tour suitable for a wide range of travelers.
At €54 per person, it’s an affordable way to discover the marine wonders around Tenerife.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing From Tenerife South Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Boat With Drinks, Snacks and Swimming Time
Embarking on a whale and dolphin watching adventure, this sailing tour from Tenerife South promises an immersive marine experience.
Sailing for 3 hours, guests can enjoy a glass of champagne, unlimited drinks, and light refreshments, including freshly made sandwiches. Snorkeling gear is available for those interested in getting up close with the local marine life.
The tour has received excellent reviews, with 482 mentions and a 4.5/5 star rating. With a maximum of 11 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized encounter.
Pickup is available within a 10km radius with 24-hour notice, making it convenient for those staying nearby.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Boat With Drinks, Snacks and Swimming Time Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip in Puerto Colon
Situated in the picturesque harbor of Puerto Colón, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip offers an intimate and engaging marine adventure.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour provides the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Guests can enjoy onboard amenities such as drinks and snacks, as well as the chance to snorkel and swim.
The tour departs and returns to the convenient meeting point, and the knowledgeable captain ensures a personalized experience.
While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the tour receives high praise from most guests for its stunning views, relaxing atmosphere, and close encounters with the marine life.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip in Puerto Colon Review
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Kayak Safari With Dolphin and Turtle Watching in Guaza
One captivating kayak safari in Tenerife takes adventurers on a journey to spot dolphins and turtles in the stunning coastal waters of Guaza.
The 4.5-star rated tour departs from Los Cristianos beach, allowing guests to paddle along the dramatic cliffs while snorkeling and searching for marine life.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the experienced guides offer tips on spotting elusive creatures.
Though not recommended for pregnant women or those with health conditions, the moderately challenging activity is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly.
At $40.75 per person, the 4-5 hour excursion includes kayaking, snorkeling equipment, and the chance to glimpse Tenerife’s remarkable underwater world.
Read our full review: Kayak Safari With Dolphin and Turtle Watching in Guaza Review
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Tenerife Whale and Dolphin-Watching Catamaran Tour With Drinks
What better way to experience the stunning marine life of Tenerife than a whale and dolphin-watching catamaran tour?
Departing from Puerto Colon, these 2-3 hour tours offer guests the chance to spot dolphins, pilot whales, and even sea turtles. The friendly, knowledgeable crew provides insights about the wildlife.
Travelers enjoy unlimited beer and soft drinks, and the 3-hour tour includes sandwiches. While not wheelchair accessible, the tours welcome most guests.
With a 4.5-star rating from 260 reviews, this is a popular activity for families and all ages. Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours add to the convenience.
Read our full review: Tenerife Whale and Dolphin-Watching Catamaran Tour With Drinks Review
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Kayaking With Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife
Kayaking alongside dolphins and turtles while enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Tenerife is an unforgettable experience. This highly-rated activity includes all necessary gear, from wetsuits to life vests.
With a maximum group size of 16 and a minimum age of 14, the tour is suitable for both families and adventure-seekers. Participants should have moderate fitness and swimming ability, as the activity isn’t wheelchair-accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Highlights include knowledgeable guides, frequent wildlife sightings, and memorable outings, though some have reported concerns about snorkeling visibility and crowding.
Read our full review: Kayaking With Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife Review
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Small-Group Dolphin and Whale Watching in Tenerife With Biologist
A small-group whale and dolphin watching tour led by marine biologists offers travelers an immersive and educational experience exploring Tenerife’s vibrant marine life.
Priced from $58.97 per person, the tour takes guests on a journey to spot pilot whales, dolphins, and loggerhead turtles, with the help of an aquaphone to listen to the whales underwater.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, the experience provides a personal and respectful approach to wildlife observation.
Highly recommended by past participants, the tour’s knowledgeable guides share extensive information about the marine species and conservation efforts, making it an ideal activity for families and those seeking an educational adventure.
Read our full review: Small-Group Dolphin and Whale Watching in Tenerife With Biologist Review
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Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop
Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop
This eco-yacht tour offers the chance to spot whales and dolphins in Tenerife’s waters. With a 4.5-star rating from 763 reviews, it’s a popular choice.
The tour accommodates up to 70 travelers and costs $16.08 per person. Amenities include a tour guide, low gravity boat, toilet, bar, and snorkel equipment.
The tour departs from Calle Espigón del Benchijigua, with boarding 20 minutes before departure. Highlights include sighting dolphins and pilot whales, a swimming stop, and a knowledgeable crew.
While some reviewers note shorter durations and crowding, the tour provides a good value for whale and dolphin watching with a lively atmosphere.
Read our full review: Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching EcoAdventure in Tenerife
The Whale and Dolphin Watching EcoAdventure in Tenerife provides travelers with an immersive opportunity to observe these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Boasting a 97% recommendation rate from 76 reviews and a 4.9/5 overall rating, this tour offers visitors the chance to witness pilot whales, dolphins, and other cetaceans up close.
The small group size of 8 travelers maximum ensures an intimate and educational experience, with a hydrophone on board to learn about the animals’ sounds.
Snacks are provided, and the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate and gain an appreciation for marine conservation efforts.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching EcoAdventure in Tenerife Review
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Puerto Colon to Los Gigantes Whale and Dolphin Sea Safari – Tenerife
Departing from the popular Puerto Colón harbor, the SEA SAFARI Dolphins, Whales, 3h Speedboat Discovery Tour promises an exhilarating encounter with Tenerife’s magnificent marine life.
This highly-rated tour, boasting a 4.8-star review and a 98% traveler recommendation, offers the chance to spot dolphins, whales, turtles, and more.
Equipped with snorkeling gear, snacks, and beverages, the intimate group of no more than 11 travelers will embark on a thrilling speedboat adventure.
With a knowledgeable and friendly guide, the tour caters to families and adventurers alike, providing a memorable experience for all ages.
While one traveler reported a booking issue, the tour’s overall positive feedback highlights its popularity as a must-do activity in Tenerife.
Read our full review: Puerto Colon to Los Gigantes Whale and Dolphin Sea Safari – Tenerife Review
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2h Viking Cruise Whales and Dolphins Watching
Situated in the heart of the popular tourist hub of Los Cristianos, the Viking Cruise Whales and Dolphins Watching tour offers a unique and exhilarating 2-hour adventure on the waters surrounding Tenerife.
Rated 4.8 out of 229 reviews, the tour is recommended by 94% of travelers and boasts a lowest price guarantee starting at $12.87 per person.
With a maximum capacity of 85 travelers, the cruise provides wheelchair and stroller accessibility and is conveniently located near public transportation.
Onboard, guests can enjoy restroom facilities, shaded areas, and complimentary alcoholic beverages, lunch, bottled water, and soda.
Led by friendly and informative staff, the tour promises opportunities to ethically observe dolphins and pilot whales while learning about the local marine life and history.
Read our full review: 2h Viking Cruise Whales and Dolphins Watching Review
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Whales & Dolphins Watching in Exclusive Sailboat
An exclusive sailboat tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the splendor of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat off the coast of Tenerife.
This three-hour excursion provides a chance to spot these magnificent creatures in the wild, with a maximum group size of 11 travelers for an intimate experience.
The tour includes a skipper, fuel, tax, catered lunch, and snorkeling equipment. Travelers can choose to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on board.
With over 400 reviews and a 4.9 rating, this tour is highly recommended, with travelers highlighting the friendly staff and informative captains.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Whales & Dolphins Watching in Exclusive Sailboat Review
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Kayak Tenerife Dolphins and Turtles Experience
This kayak adventure in Tenerife offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat.
Rated 4.8 out of 25 reviews, the Kayak Tenerife Dolphins and Turtles Experience provides a small group activity with an expert guide.
Travelers can expect to see dolphins and turtles while kayaking and snorkeling, with equipment and snacks provided.
However, the activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or who are overweight.
Some past travelers noted communication issues with the start time.
Read our full review: Kayak Tenerife Dolphins and Turtles Experience Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching in Tenerife With Snorkeling
The Whale and Dolphin Watching in Tenerife With Snorkeling tour offers travelers an exceptional opportunity to witness these majestic marine creatures up close.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 5.0-star rated experience provides snorkel gear, a hydrophone, and snacks.
The tour departs from Puerto Colón in Playa de la Américas and returns to the same meeting point.
With a maximum of 9 travelers per tour, this activity isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most participants.
However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or serious medical issues.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching in Tenerife With Snorkeling Review
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3 Hours All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Whatching Yacht Trip
Travelers embark on a captivating 3-hour All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip in Tenerife, Spain.
This excursion boasts a Badge of Excellence and a 4.5-star rating from 33 reviews. The trip includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, drinks, and private transportation. Guests can choose to meet at the departure point or opt for hotel pickup.
The yacht is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants are welcome. Passengers can expect to see dolphins and enjoy the captain’s engaging commentary about the local marine life.
With a maximum of 11 travelers, the experience offers excellent value at $48.97 per person, with the flexibility of free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: 3 Hours All Inclusive Whale and Dolphin Whatching Yacht Trip Review
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Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a captivating opportunity for whale and dolphin watching.
Located off the coast, the island boasts a highly recommended tour that provides a private experience with a 99% chance of spotting whales, including pilot whales and Bryde’s whales, as well as dolphins and turtles.
The tour operates from the Puerto Colón marina and features a knowledgeable and conservation-focused crew, along with amenities like restrooms, refreshments, and protective gear.
Priced at $58.97 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and sustainable choice for eco-conscious travelers seeking an unforgettable marine life encounter.
Read our full review: Tenerife: Whale and Dolphin Watching Review
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The Sum Up
Tenerife offers a range of exciting dolphin-watching tours. From small-group excursions to larger catamaran cruises, visitors can spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Many tours also include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you prefer a sailing adventure or a more intimate kayaking experience, there’s a dolphin-watching option to suit your preferences on the island.