Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise with Beach Stop

Summary

Whale watching, swimming and cava on Tenerife’s south coast

You’ll watch whales and dolphins glide past your boat off Costa Adeje, then drop anchor at a quiet cove for swimming or snorkeling. Enjoy unlimited cava or beer with fresh snacks as you sail back toward Puerto Colón—sun-warmed skin and salt in your hair included.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to hear so much laughter from strangers on a boat, but that’s how our Tenerife whale watching cruise started—just a bunch of us squinting into the sun at Puerto Colón, trying to guess who’d spot the first dolphin. Our skipper, Andrés (who somehow remembered all our names by heart), pointed out these little puffs of spray in the distance. “That’s them,” he said, almost whispering like it was a secret. The sea had that salty-sticky smell, and I could taste it on my lips when we leaned over the railings. It was warm but not too hot—just enough breeze that I kept my hat on tight.

We drifted along Costa Adeje for what felt like ages but was probably just an hour or so. Someone handed me a glass of cava (I didn’t say no), and then—out of nowhere—a pod of pilot whales surfaced right beside us. They moved so quietly I almost missed it. Andrés told us about their migration patterns in this part of Tenerife, and I swear I saw one calf roll over to look at us before diving down again. There were dolphins too, darting around like they were showing off. You could hear everyone’s camera shutters clicking, but honestly, I just watched.

Later we anchored near Puertito Armeñime—a tiny cove with water clear enough to see your toes wiggle underwater. Some folks went snorkeling; I just floated for a while, staring up at the sky and thinking about nothing in particular (which is rare for me). The snacks were simple—fresh fruit, chips—but after swimming they tasted perfect. On the way back to Puerto Colón, someone played Spanish pop music from their phone and even Andrés sang along (badly). So yeah, if you’re looking for something fancy this isn’t it—but if you want three hours that feel like summer should feel… well.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and beach stop

• Pick up from hotel
• Depart from Puerto Colon pier 8
• Watch whales and dolphins
• Stop at Puertito Armeñime beach
• Swim, snorkel, and relax
• Return to Puerto Colon
• Transport back to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Tenerife whale watching cruise?

Yes, pickup from your hotel is included about 30 minutes before departure.

How long does the cruise last?

The excursion lasts approximately 3 hours.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, unlimited cava, beer, wine, soft drinks and water are included.

Is snorkeling equipment available?

The tour stops for swimming and snorkeling; equipment is available onboard.

What is the maximum group size?

The small group cruise accommodates up to 11 people.

Is this whale watching cruise suitable for children?

Yes, families with children—even infants—are welcome.

Are vegetarian snacks available?

Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The boat departs from pier 8 at Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and return transport, a small group sailing cruise with a local skipper along Costa Adeje, unlimited cava plus beer or wine and soft drinks throughout the trip, fresh fruit and snacks onboard—and time to swim or snorkel at a quiet beach before heading back to port.