Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching Eco Catamaran Tour

Summary

Whale watching, dolphin calls & swimming off Tenerife’s sunny coast

You’ll sail off Tenerife’s southern coast in an eco catamaran, listening to whales and dolphins through underwater speakers while watching them glide nearby. Enjoy time for snorkeling or swimming in clear water before relaxing on deck with sandwiches, fruit, and drinks included. It’s peaceful but also kind of electric — especially when you catch those wild conversations echoing below.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you hear that?” someone whispered as we drifted along the south coast of Tenerife. The guide just grinned and turned up the speakers — suddenly it was like we were eavesdropping on another world. Whale clicks and dolphin whistles floated through the salty air, all mixed with the hum of the catamaran’s solar panels (which I honestly didn’t expect to notice, but they made this soft mechanical purr). The sea was calm enough that morning for us to actually see a pod of dolphins weaving right alongside us, their backs glinting in the light.

I’m not usually one for group tours, but this whale and dolphin watching trip felt easygoing. There were a few families, a couple who’d snagged hammocks (definitely ask for one if you can), and our local crew who kept pointing out things I’d never have spotted — like a pilot whale calf surfacing just behind us. At some point I realized I’d been holding my breath just listening to those underwater sounds. It’s weirdly moving, hearing animals talk beneath your feet.

We anchored near a rocky cove where some folks jumped in straight away for snorkeling — I hesitated (the water looked cold) but ended up following because why not? The salt stung my lips and there were tiny silver fish everywhere. Back on deck, sandwiches and fruit showed up like magic. Beer too, if you wanted it. Sun on my face, wet hair sticking to my neck… it was one of those afternoons that doesn’t feel real until later when you’re rinsing off sand at your hotel and thinking about what you heard out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and snorkeling tour

• Arrive at port 20 minutes early
• Board eco catamaran with solar panels
• Watch and listen to whales and dolphins
• Sail along south coast of island
• Anchor for swimming and snorkeling
• Relax on deck and enjoy catering

Top questions

How long is the whale & dolphin watching tour in Tenerife?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours along the south coast of Tenerife.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

The tour includes time for snorkeling and swimming; equipment details aren’t specified so check when booking.

Are food and drinks included during the catamaran trip?

Yes, sandwiches, fruit, beer, water, and soft drinks are served onboard at no extra cost.

Can I reserve a hammock spot on the boat?

You can request a hammock when booking; there are only four available per trip.

Where does the tour depart from in Tenerife?

The departure is from a port on Tenerife’s south coast; arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled time.

Is this whale watching tour suitable for children or infants?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult's lap during the trip.

Will we definitely see whales or dolphins?

Sightings are likely as you’re sailing their natural habitat but cannot be guaranteed every time.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing along Tenerife’s south coast aboard an eco-friendly catamaran with solar panels, expert local guides pointing out whales and dolphins (with underwater sounds played live), anchoring for swimming or snorkeling in clear waters, plus sandwiches, fresh fruit, beer, water and soft drinks served onboard before returning to port.