Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise: Gran Canaria Half-Day Tour

Three hours at sea, then a cove stop to swim and snorkel

A half-day dolphin and whale watching cruise departs from Puerto Rico on Gran Canaria's southwest coast, sailing in search of cetaceans aboard a catamaran built for smooth navigation. The boat returns to anchor at one of four coastal coves—Cala del Perchel, Taurito, Tauro or Anfi del Mar—where you swim, use included snorkeling gear and drink for 30 to 45 minutes before heading back to port. Hotel pickup is available as an option at checkout.

Step-by-step itinerary

Dolphin and whale watching cruise

• Board catamaran at Puerto Rico marina
• Sail offshore searching for dolphins and whales
• Stop at Cala del Perchel or nearby beach
• Swim and snorkel with provided equipment
• Enjoy a refreshing drink on board
• Return to Puerto Rico marina

The Experience

The catamaran leaves Puerto Rico marina between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., depending on the option you choose. Most of the three to five hours you're on board goes to searching for dolphins and whales in the waters between Puerto de Mogán and the Maspalomas Lighthouse. The boat's design—a catamaran rather than a smaller monohull—keeps the ride steady, which matters when you're scanning the horizon or sitting on deck for hours.

Once the crew spots cetaceans or decides to head back to the coast, the boat anchors at whichever cove offers the best conditions that day. You get roughly 30 to 45 minutes to swim, use the snorkeling equipment that's included, and drink water or soft drinks. The crew stays on board, and the water is calm enough for children and weaker swimmers. After that stop, you return to Puerto Rico to finish.

Restrooms are on board, and the boat carries infants in prams or strollers. If you book the option with pickup, a driver collects you from your hotel and brings you back; the direct-to-port option means you arrange your own way to the marina. Public transport runs nearby if you prefer that route.

What’s included

• Catamaran cruise with search for dolphins and whales.
• snorkeling equipment for the cove stop.
• soft drinks and water during the anchored stop.
• restroom access on board.
• hotel pickup and return (available on one option at checkout).

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Líneas Blue Bird

Is this one for you?Book with pickup if your hotel is in the Puerto Rico area and you'd rather not drive to the marina; choose direct-to-port if you have a rental car or prefer to meet the boat yourself. The half-day length fits a morning or afternoon slot without eating a full day, and the cove swim makes sense only if you're comfortable in the water—if you plan to stay dry, the sailing portion alone is the draw.

Traveler reviews

4.23★★★★★★★★★★

155 verified traveler reviews

5 ★98

4 ★28

3 ★10

2 ★5

1 ★14

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What are the chances of seeing dolphins or whales on this cruise?

The cruise sails in waters where dolphins and whales are known to pass, and the crew navigates based on sightings and seasonal patterns. The operator does not guarantee a sighting on every departure, as marine wildlife presence varies by day and season.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear, or is the included equipment enough?

Snorkeling equipment is included with the cruise. You're welcome to bring your own if you prefer, but the provided gear covers the basics for the cove stop.

How long is the actual sailing time versus the time spent anchored?

Of the three to five hours total, roughly 150 to 180 minutes goes to sailing in search of cetaceans, and about 30 to 45 minutes is spent anchored at the cove for swimming and snorkeling.

Which cove will we stop at—can I choose?

The crew picks between Cala del Perchel, Taurito, Tauro and Anfi del Mar based on where the best sightings occurred and sea conditions that day. You don't select the cove in advance.

Is the catamaran suitable for someone who gets seasick easily?

The catamaran is designed to roll less than smaller boats, which helps reduce motion sickness. If you're prone to seasickness, taking medication before boarding and staying on deck where you can see the horizon often helps.

What's included in the drinks offered during the cove stop?

Soft drinks and water are provided free during the 30 to 45 minute stop at the cove. No alcohol is included, though you may be able to purchase additional items depending on the boat's offerings.