Whale Watching Catamaran in Costa Adeje (Including drinks & Sandwich)

If you’re heading to Tenerife and looking for a memorable adventure at sea, the whale-watching trip in Costa Adeje is a popular choice. This 3-hour sail aboard a spacious catamaran offers a chance to see dolphins, pilot whales, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat. With reviews praising the crew’s friendliness and the stunning views, it’s an experience that often exceeds expectations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable crew who are skilled at spotting marine life and making everyone feel comfortable. Second, the included food and drinks—a major plus for keeping hunger at bay while enjoying the sea breeze. Third, the convenient hotel pickup, which removes the hassle of organizing your own transport.

However, a potential consideration is that the large capacity (up to 160 people) might mean a busier, more touristy atmosphere. This trip is ideal for those who enjoy socializing and want a lively, well-organized experience. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, and anyone eager to combine wildlife viewing with a relaxing boat ride.

Key Points

• Stunning marine sightings including dolphins, pilot whales, and sometimes turtles.
• All-inclusive with sandwiches, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
• Hotel pickup available from designated locations, simplifying logistics.
• Large boat capacity means more social energy but less intimacy.
• Weather-dependent — cancellations happen if conditions are unsafe.
• Great value considering food, drinks, and transportation are included.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Atmosphere

The tour begins at 10:00 am from the meeting point at Av. de Colón, 11, in Playa de la Américas. Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the spaciousness of the large catamaran, capable of hosting up to 160 travelers comfortably. The crew, including bilingual guide Oliver, is known for being friendly and attentive—just the kind of people you’d want guiding your marine adventure. Many reviewers mention how Oliver and his team go the extra mile, sharing their knowledge and keeping everyone engaged.

The boat heads out into diverse waters, where the crew’s familiarity with the best spots for spotting marine life pays off. As you leave the coast behind, the views of Tenerife’s coastline are breathtaking—cliffs, coves, and the vast horizon stretch out in all directions.

Marine Wildlife Encounters

This is the main event. Many travelers have been fortunate enough to see families of pilot whales—some as large as ten—swimming close to the boat. Reviewers like Anna_P highlight how even in bad weather, the experience remained enjoyable, and sightings of pilot whales were plentiful. Others have seen short fin whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins, often approaching the boat closely, making for great photo opportunities.

The crew’s expertise in marine life is evident; they not only point out the animals but also share interesting facts. Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable guides explain what you’re seeing, providing a richer understanding of these creatures’ behaviors and habitats.

Snacking and Refreshments

One of the tour’s highlights is the food and drinks included in the price. Travelers rave about the sandwiches—”delicious” and filling—and the open bar, which features soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages. This setup means you can spend more time relaxing rather than worrying about buying drinks ashore or at a bar.

Some mention that sun beds at the front of the boat are an extra cost and on a first-come, first-served basis, which might be worth considering if you want a prime sunbathing spot. Ice-creams are also available but cost extra.

Comfort and Convenience

The hotel pickup and drop-off are designed to make the day seamless. Most reviews praise how smoothly the logistics are handled, though there are some exceptions. For instance, one reviewer noted that not all hotels are covered, so it’s worth checking the set pick-up points near your accommodation.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with some passengers mentioning how the crew helps those who feel seasick, making the trip enjoyable even for sensitive travelers.

Duration and Group Size

At about 3 hours, this trip offers plenty of time to spot marine life without feeling like an all-day commitment. The large group size (up to 160 participants) means the atmosphere is lively, which some enjoy, while others might prefer more intimacy. For families or those seeking a social vibe, this is ideal.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the tour is weather-dependent, cancellations happen if conditions are unsafe, with full refunds offered if the trip is canceled. One reviewer, Mike_L, appreciated this, noting that bad weather caused a cancellation but was handled professionally.

What Travelers Can Expect

The Start and Pick-up

Your day begins with a timely pickup from designated points, making departure hassle-free. The guide will confirm your language preferences, although English and Spanish are guaranteed. Many reviewers mention how well-organized the process was, with clear instructions to reach the meeting point.

Out at Sea

Once out on the water, the crew’s expertise really shines. They know where to look, and their enthusiasm is contagious. As the boat cruises through the waters, you’ll get a chance to see coastal scenery and occasionally spot seabirds flying overhead.

Wildlife Watching

Expect regular sightings of dolphins—spotted, bottlenose, and pilot whales—sometimes swimming underneath or leaping out of the water. Many guests describe these moments as unforgettable, especially when animals come close to the boat. The guides are quick to point things out and share insights, making the experience both fun and educational.

Break in a Secluded Bay

Some trips include a stop in a quiet bay for a swim, which many reviewers loved. The natural setting is perfect for cooling off and enjoying the clear waters. This part of the journey is particularly appreciated, as it adds a personal, relaxed touch.

Return and Debrief

After the three hours, the boat heads back to the meeting point. Many guests comment on how the crew’s friendly attitude and informative commentary made the trip more enjoyable.

The Value of This Whale-Watching Tour

At a price point of $54.16 per person, this trip offers excellent value considering what’s included. Food, drinks, transportation, and the chance to see marine life in the wild make it a worthwhile investment.

While some reviewers mentioned the large boat’s bustling environment—which isn’t as intimate as smaller tours—the trade-off is a lively atmosphere and the comfort of a well-equipped vessel. If you’re after a relaxed, social experience with reliable sightings and knowledgeable guides, this tour hits the mark.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers—from families with kids, who appreciate the friendly crew and the fun of seeing dolphins swim underneath, to wildlife enthusiasts eager for close encounters with whales. It’s also great for those who prioritize convenience, thanks to hotel pick-up and included food and drinks.

If you’re someone who enjoys a more intimate boat ride or prefers smaller groups, you might want to consider alternative options. Still, for most visitors, the combination of stunning scenery, wildlife, and good value makes it a highlight of a trip to Tenerife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but only from set locations. It’s best to check whether your hotel falls within the covered areas.

What language is the tour conducted in?
English and Spanish are guaranteed. When you arrive, inform the guide of your language preference, although other languages may be offered depending on the guide.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy wildlife sightings and the sea breeze without feeling rushed.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a jacket for wind and chill, especially if you’re sensitive to the open sea. Sun protection, camera, and a hat are recommended, but note that sun beds at the front are extra and on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, sandwiches, soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are all part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the ride.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
Most travelers do! Reviews mention seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and sometimes turtles. The crew is experienced at locating marine life.

What about seasickness?
The boat is spacious and crew members are attentive to those feeling unwell. Some guests mention that the crew helps with seasickness, making the experience more comfortable.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the trip is family-friendly. The lively atmosphere and wildlife sightings are sure to entertain kids of all ages.

What if the weather is bad?
Trips are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t safe, the tour is canceled with a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Can I upgrade for better views?
Sun beds at the front are available for an extra fee, but they are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Upgrading can enhance your comfort and viewing experience.

To sum it up, this whale-watching catamaran tour in Tenerife offers a fantastic balance of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and comfort. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a lively, social outing with plenty of opportunities to see marine life and enjoy good food and drinks on board. With knowledgeable guides and a commitment to safety and fun, it’s a reliable choice for making the most of Tenerife’s waters. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic or just looking for a memorable day at sea, this experience is worth considering.