La Gomera: Small Group Whale & Dolphin Boat Tour

Summary

Ocean moments, laughter and quiet awe with whales off La Gomera

You’ll join a small group on a traditional boat from Valle Gran Rey, guided by locals who know where whales and dolphins love to play. Watch them up close, share laughs over fresh fruit and snacks, swim or snorkel at Las Salinas beach, and relax under the sun before heading back—leaving you quietly changed by what you saw out there.

What’s the experience like?

I’d been curious about the whale and dolphin watching tours in La Gomera for ages, but honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so… present out there. The morning started at the Valle Gran Rey port — a bit of nervous energy in the air, everyone clutching coffee or water bottles. Our guide, Marta, greeted us with this easy smile and a quick safety talk on the old Menorquin fishing boat. She joked that we’d be “guests of the sea” today, which sounded cheesy at first but stuck with me as we set off. There was a salty tang in the breeze and I remember the sun warming my arms while we left the dock behind.

The search for whales and dolphins wasn’t some wild chase — it was more like drifting into their world. Marta pointed out a pod of dolphins before anyone else noticed them; suddenly they were everywhere, weaving through waves right next to us. Someone’s kid squealed when one jumped (I might’ve made a noise too). Later, when a whale surfaced off to our left — just this slow, massive shape gliding by — everyone went quiet for a second. I caught myself holding my breath. It’s weird how peaceful it felt, even with all of us leaning over for a better look.

We had snacks and local fruit on board (the bananas were so sweet), then dropped anchor near Las Salinas beach for swimming and snorkeling. The water was colder than I expected — took me a minute to get used to it — but floating there with fish darting around was worth it. On the way back, people lounged on cushions or wrapped up in blankets if they got chilly. There was this feeling that nobody wanted it to end yet. I still think about that silence when the whale passed by; not sure I’ll ever forget it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and beach picnic

• Meet at Pura Vida cabin
• Receive safety talk on board
• Search for whales and dolphins
• Enjoy sailing around La Gomera
• Have picnic on board
• Swim and snorkel at Las Salinas beach
• Return to collection point

Top questions

How many people are on each whale & dolphin tour?

Each boat tour has small groups of up to 10 people maximum.

Where does the whale watching tour start?

The tour begins at the Pura Vida cabin in Valle Gran Rey port on La Gomera.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the trip?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for guests during the beach stop at Las Salinas.

Are snacks or drinks included on board?

Yes, you’ll get snacks, local fruit and drinks during your time on board.

Can children or infants join this boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; specialized seats are available if needed.

Is there a bathroom (WC) available on the boat?

Yes, there is a WC available onboard for guests’ use.

Does this whale watching tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at Valle Gran Rey port before departure.

How long does the entire excursion last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes sailing time plus stops for wildlife viewing and swimming/snorkeling.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your crew at Valle Gran Rey port before setting sail aboard a traditional Menorquin fishing boat with expert guides; snacks, local fruit and drinks are served as you watch for whales and dolphins; blankets and cushions keep things cozy; you’ll have time to swim or snorkel near Las Salinas beach using provided gear before returning to shore together.