Tenerife: Private Whale Watching Tour with Biologist & Photos

Summary

Whale watching in Tenerife with real scientists and wild encounters

You’ll join a small group for private whale watching in Tenerife with a local marine biologist—listen to whales underwater, spot dolphins near Costa Adeje, and receive wildlife photos after your trip. Expect honest conversation, gentle approaches to wildlife, and unexpected moments that stick with you long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you hear that?” our guide, Marta, whispered just as the boat’s engine faded. I was still clutching my coffee from the marina (should’ve finished it earlier — sloshed half on my shorts). The ocean off Costa Adeje was quieter than I’d expected, except for gulls somewhere behind us and this weird, salty tang in the air. We were maybe fifteen minutes out from Puerto Colón Marina, sun already poking through but not too fierce yet. The boat felt solid — cushioned benches, enough shade, nothing fancy but comfortable. There were only six of us plus Marta and the captain, so it actually felt private. She handed around some laminated cards with pictures of pilot whales and dolphins. I tried to pronounce “calderón tropical” properly — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Spanish; probably butchered it.

We drifted for a bit before Marta set up the hydrophone — she called it her “magic microphone.” The sound that came through wasn’t what I expected at all. Kind of like creaky doors and distant whistles, not at all like movie whales. Everyone went quiet listening; even the kids stopped fidgeting for a minute. Then someone spotted a small pod surfacing maybe 30 meters away — dark shapes rolling just under the water. No one shouted or rushed to the edge (Marta had already explained about keeping calm so we didn’t disturb them). She pointed out their scars and explained how they recognize individuals here off Tenerife. I liked that she clearly cared about these animals — you could see it in how she talked about their behaviors and migration patterns.

I kept thinking we’d have to go miles out for whale watching in Tenerife, but honestly we weren’t far from shore at all (maybe three miles tops?). The captain kept us steady while Marta snapped photos (which she said she’d email later). At one point a dolphin arched right by the bow — quick flash of silver and gone again before anyone could get their phone out. Someone asked if there was ever a guarantee we’d see something; Marta just smiled and said they always do their best but nature has its own plans. That felt honest.

Back at Puerto Colón Marina, I realized my shoulders were sunburned even though there was shade (bring sunscreen!). We swapped stories with another group getting ready to board next — everyone seemed kind of giddy from being out there. I still think about those sounds from the hydrophone sometimes when things are too quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private 2-hour whale watching tour

• Arrive at dock Pantalán No.3
• Meet staff 15 minutes before departure
• Park at marina (approx. 1€ per hour)
• Use marina bathrooms and restaurants if needed
• Board custom 8 meter whale watching boat
• Meet Captain and receive safety briefing
• Listen to Marine Biologist explain marine ecosystem
• Learn about local whales and dolphins
• Captain drives to whale and dolphin hotspot
• Approach whales and dolphins carefully
• Observe and learn about animal behaviors
• Guide takes photos to share after tour

Top questions

How long is the private whale watching tour in Tenerife?

The tour lasts approximately two hours from departure at Puerto Colón Marina.

Where does the whale watching tour depart from?

The tour departs from dock Pantalán No.3 in Puerto Colón Marina, Costa Adeje.

Is there a guide on board during the tour?

Yes, a marine biologist staff member provides live commentary throughout the tour.

Are photos included on this whale watching trip?

Yes, photos of marine wildlife taken during your tour are sent by email afterwards.

Can you listen to whales underwater during this tour?

Yes, guests can listen to whales and dolphins using an onboard hydrophone system.

What time does the whale watching tour start?

Tours depart at 9:30am, 12 noon or 2:30pm daily.

Is hotel pickup included for this whale watching experience?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at Puerto Colón Marina before departure.

What is the maximum group size for this private whale watching tour?

The maximum group size is 10 guests per boat.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your marine biologist guide at Puerto Colón Marina before boarding a custom-built boat with cushioned seating and shade; live educational commentary throughout; use of a hydrophone to listen to whales and dolphins underwater; all local taxes covered; plus professional wildlife photos emailed after your trip—no extra charges or hidden fees along the way.