Tenerife: 2h Viking Cruise Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour

Summary

Viking ship cruise from Los Cristianos to spot whales dolphins and Tenerife coast views

You’ll set sail from Los Cristianos on a real Viking-style ship, searching for wild dolphins and pilot whales along Tenerife’s southern coast. Friendly guides share stories in English and Spanish while kids can get their faces painted as Vikings. It’s two hours of sea air, laughter, and moments you might not expect — perfect if you want something lively but not rushed.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to see a Viking ship bobbing in the port at Los Cristianos — it looked both out of place and somehow right, with the morning sun bouncing off the shields and the crew already waving us over. We clambered on board, kids darting straight for the prow, and someone offered to take our photo (I usually hate those, but honestly, it felt like a moment I’d want to remember). The air was salty and warm, not too windy for once.

Our guide switched easily between Spanish and English as we set off along Tenerife’s southern coast. There was this low hum from the engine mixed with laughter — mostly from some little ones getting their faces painted like Vikings. I tried to pronounce “pilot whale” in Spanish (ballena piloto?) and Li laughed at my accent. The crew kept pointing out where to look, scanning the water for fins. And then suddenly — there they were, dolphins first, darting just ahead of us. It’s hard to explain how quiet everyone got for a second, like we all forgot we were on a themed boat.

The whales came later — slower, darker shapes surfacing near the side. Someone’s phone nearly went overboard in the excitement (not mine this time). You could smell sunscreen and sea spray everywhere. The whole thing only took about two hours but it felt longer in that good way, you know? No swimming stop or drinks on this one, but honestly I didn’t miss it — watching those animals glide by was more than enough.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Viking cruise and wildlife watching

• Optional photo onboard
• Set sail from Los Cristianos harbour
• Watch for dolphins and whales
• Enjoy bilingual commentary
• Optional Viking face painting
• View southern Tenerife coast
• Return to harbour after two hours

Top questions

Is this Viking whale watching cruise suitable for families?

Yes, it’s family-friendly with face painting for kids and stroller access.

How long is the whale & dolphin watching tour?

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours from Los Cristianos harbour.

Are drinks or food included on this tour?

No, drinks or food are not included on the 2-hour cruise option.

Is there a swimming stop during the tour?

No swimming stop is included on this shorter version of the tour.

Are guides available in English?

Yes, commentary is provided in both English and Spanish throughout.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible onboard.

Where does the tour depart from?

The cruise departs from Los Cristianos harbour in southern Tenerife.

Can infants join this whale watching cruise?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

What’s included

Your day includes boarding at Los Cristianos harbour with friendly Viking crew guiding you in both Spanish and English; whale & dolphin watching along Tenerife’s southern coast; optional face painting for kids; toilets onboard; plus full wheelchair accessibility throughout your two-hour adventure before returning to port.