Tenerife is one of the top places in the world to spot dolphins. There are resident groups of bottlenose dolphins along the southern coast, and they’re here all year round. Dolphin watching cruises in Tenerife offer close-up encounters with these playful marine mammals, and sightings are frequent.

There are several boat tours to choose from, with catamaran cruises and motor yacht trips both available. Whatever you decide, you'll be in for an unforgettable wildlife experience!

Here's everything you need to know about dolphin watching cruises, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Tenerife.

What are the best dolphin watching cruises in Tenerife?

Tenerife dolphin watching cruises by catamaran

The most popular dolphin watching cruises in Tenerife are enjoyed on board a luxury catamaran. You’ll be journeying with a group of like-minded explorers, with lunch and swimming also on the agenda.

Your day starts either with a hotel pickup or by meeting down at the dock. After checking in, you’ll find a spot on the deck and settle in for the journey out to sea. Catamarans are very stable vessels, so these trips are ideal if you prefer to minimize the rocking motion.

As the catamaran sets off, your guide will be on hand to point out wildlife as well as photogenic coastal scenery. Feel free to ask questions! Keep your eyes peeled for the dolphins, and if you’re lucky, turtles and whales might also make an appearance.

You’ll enjoy a delicious tapas-style lunch on board while soaking up the sun and watching the sea. There will be an opportunity to swim in a secluded bay with the boat at anchor. Snorkeling is highly recommended here as turtles are often spotted in this area.

These Tenerife boat tours end back where you started, at the port. If transfers are included in your tour package, you’ll be taken back to your hotel. Otherwise, it’s easy to arrange a taxi or just enjoy some time exploring the local area on foot.

Tenerife dolphin watching trips by yacht

You can also go dolphin watching on a motor yacht. These sleek vessels slice through the water, taking you to the heart of the action in no time. The sails are used too, so you can enjoy the full yachting experience.

These excursions begin at the port in Costa Adeje, which is easy to find. You’ll meet your boat captain and climb on board, ready for the ocean adventure of a lifetime. There will be a short briefing, then it’s time to head out into the deep blue sea.

From your comfortable vantage point on deck, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the landscape. Dolphins and pilot whales sometimes play alongside the yacht, giving you close-up encounters with these wild creatures. Remember to keep your camera handy at all times.

Lunch and drinks are served on deck, so you won’t miss a moment of your dolphin search. State-of-the-art sonar equipment lets you listen to the dolphin songs below the waves. This gives you a unique insight into the lives of these special mammals.

Finish your Tenerife dolphin watching cruise in style by swimming and snorkeling with sea turtles in a sheltered cove. You’ll then return to the shore at the end of your tour, ready for your onward adventures.

Submarine vision mini cruise with dolphin watching

This unique submarine vision cruise runs similarly to the catamaran and yacht trips. Yet it comes with an added bonus – underwater windows so you can see what the dolphins get up to beneath the waves. The tour is a great choice for families with young children who want to engage as much as possible with the experience.

After taking your place on board the catamaran, you’ll cruise out to the waters where dolphins are usually sighted. Take in the scenery and listen as crew members spill the beans about the local wildlife.

Once the dolphins have been sighted, you can either stay up on deck or head below for some rather special viewing. The underwater windows give a privileged glimpse into the marine kingdom, and sometimes the dolphins will swim right in front of you. It’s best to split your time above and below deck for a fully rounded experience.

All too soon the trip comes to an end. You’ll sail back to port, keeping watch for wildlife all the way until you reach dry land.

Private Tenerife dolphin watching boat tours

For something extra special, private dolphin watching cruises in Tenerife tick all the boxes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic experience with a loved one or are traveling with a group of friends, these tours hit the spot. Trips last up to 6 hours, so you can make a day of it if you like.

You’ll board the yacht at the dock, which is near public transport for easy access from the surrounding resort areas. Enjoy a glass of Cava while you meet the captain and the crew. They will personally welcome you on deck and show you around the boat.

Departing first thing in the morning, you’ll be in a prime position to see the dolphins when they come out to play. Sonar equipment is on hand so you’ll be able to hear the dolphins before you can see them.

On the return journey, you’ll head to Masca Bay, which lies below the pretty mountainside village of Masca. Then the boat will anchor beneath the colossal cliffs at Los Gigantes where you can enjoy some scenic swimming. Lunch is taken on deck, surrounded by the picturesque coastal landforms.

At the end of a luxurious day out at sea, you’ll cruise back to the port. Enjoy some drinks and snacks during the journey to celebrate your sightings.

Dolphin watching kayak excursions in Tenerife

For even closer encounters with the dolphins, why not take to the waves on a kayaking excursion? These fun Tenerife kayaking tours allow you to see the wildlife from the sea’s surface rather than further away on a boat. It’s an intimate experience, and no previous paddling knowledge is needed.

After meeting your tour guide and being kitted up with kayaking gear, you’ll launch straight from the beach at Los Cristianos. There will be time to practice your paddle strokes before setting off along the coast. Don’t worry about getting lost – your guide will do all the navigating.

Your group will paddle toward the cliffs of Guaza, admiring the coastal landscapes along the way. From here you’ll have a rare perspective of the island. The cave of Palmar is another highlight – it’s popular with wildlife so keep your eyes peeled.

Dolphins and whales are frequently sighted along this stretch of coast. You never know when something might surface beside your boat. Sea birds are prevalent too, so don’t forget to look up.

During the excursion, you can jump overboard for a refreshing swim. Snorkel equipment is available if you want to see what’s going on below the surface. Watch out for turtles as you drift along.

After having your fill of paddling adventures, it’s time to head back to the beach where your tour ends.

What are the prices of dolphin watching tours in Tenerife?

Tenerife dolphin watching doesn’t have to break the bank. The cheapest option at €20 is for a 2-hour cruise on a large motor yacht, with up to 136 passengers on board. This is a no-frills trip, without swimming or food.

The 2-hour submarine vision mini cruise costs €30 per person. This covers the boat trip, knowledgeable crew and the underwater viewing experience. Hotel pickups are available for an additional charge.

More comprehensive dolphin watching catamaran cruises in Tenerife cost between €40 and €60, depending on the operator. There can be up to 24 participants on board, so check the trip details if group size is important to you. The more expensive trips often have as few as 11 people for a more personal experience.

The Tenerife dolphin watching kayak trips are €40 per paddler. This is a cost-effective way to explore as you’ll be traveling under your own steam rather than on a motorboat. There will be a maximum of 15 participants to ensure the trip remains intimate – this gives you a greater chance of spotting the dolphins too!

For dolphin watching yacht trips in Tenerife, excursions are priced between €60 and €70 per person. Motor yachts can travel quickly, getting you to the dolphin zone faster than many other vessels. There will be time for traditional sailing too.

Private dolphin cruises in Tenerife are more expensive but entirely exclusive. Prices start at €500 for a group of up to 9 people. You’ll have the luxury yacht all to yourself, with the trips lasting up to 6 hours. If you are traveling with friends and spread out the cost, this can be cheaper than the shared yacht cruises.

What is included in a dolphin watching cruise in Tenerife?

Your ocean odyssey will include a safety briefing at the beginning, so everyone on board knows what to expect from the trip. There will be live commentary during the cruise, with information about the marine wildlife as well as the local area.

These Tenerife dolphin cruises include free time for snorkeling, and gear is usually provided free of charge. You’ll need to bring your own towels if you plan on taking a dip.

When it comes to refreshments, many operators offer a light lunch of sandwiches, tapas, fruit, chips and nuts to enjoy on board. Unlimited drinks are often available too, including beer, Champagne, soft drinks, juice and water.

Hotel transfers are provided on some tours – check your joining details to see if your accommodation area is covered. Souvenir photos are sometimes available to purchase if you don’t fancy taking your own camera out to sea.

On the dolphin watching kayak trips from Los Cristianos, all equipment is covered in the tour price. This includes boats, paddles, buoyancy vests and snorkeling gear. You will need to take a towel with you.

Where in Tenerife do dolphin watching boat tours start?

Some dolphin watching cruises in Tenerife offer hotel pickups for seamless round-trip transfers. However, many operators ask you to meet the boat at the dock. You’ll need to be there about 15 minutes before departure.

The most common departure point is Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje. It’s easy to access by taxi if you’re staying in one of the southern resorts like Playa de las Americas.

For the dolphin watching tours by kayak, you’ll need to make your way to the beach at Los Cristianos. You’ll find the provider’s shop where you’ll be kitted up with boats and paddles. Launching is done directly from the beach.

How long do dolphin watching cruises in Tenerife last?

Tenerife dolphin watching cruises tend to last between 2 and 3 hours. This is plenty of time to take to the sea in search of wildlife. Private excursions often run for up to 6 hours.

The shorter tours are ideal for those who just want a quick foray along the coast. However, to increase your chances of seeing a dolphin, it’s a good idea to book one of the longer trips.

When is the best time to go on a dolphin watching boat tour in Tenerife?

Dolphin boat trips in Tenerife run throughout the day, so it’s easy to fit one into your schedule. Popular departure times are 10 AM, 1 PM and 4 PM.

The sea is usually at its calmest in the mornings, with less wind to whip up the waves. This makes it easier to spot dolphins when the sea is flatter, and you can see further ahead.

If you want to enjoy a Tenerife whale watching tour at the same time as spotting dolphins, come between November and February.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Good weather is required for dolphin watching tours in Tenerife. If the sea conditions are unfavorable, your trip will be canceled with a full refund available.

If your itinerary allows, it may also be possible to postpone your excursion to a different day. Try to arrange the tour at the beginning of your visit just in case it has to be rescheduled.

What other water activities can you do in Tenerife?

Travel tips

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect from the sun. Even if it's warm on land, it can get chilly on the water, so pack a light jacket.
If you're prone to seasickness, take preventative measures. This can include over-the-counter medication, ginger tablets or acupressure wristbands. It's also advisable to look at the horizon and stay in the fresh air.
Remember, you're visiting the home of these marine creatures. Follow the instructions given by the crew, avoid loud noises that can disturb the animals and never throw anything into the water.

Dolphin Watching in Tenerife