Tenerife: Respectful Whale Watching Pirate Cruise + Swim

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, this respectful whale watching tour in Tenerife might be just what you’re looking for. Operated by Neptuno Whale Experience Tenerife, this cruise combines adventure, conservation, and a dash of pirate flair—literally—aboard a vintage pirate-style vessel. With a 4.7-star rating based on over 2,300 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip both fun and meaningful.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s legally permitted and eco-conscious, meaning no chasing or disturbing the marine life. Second, the pirate ship adds a playful, unique vibe that sets it apart from typical boat trips. And third, it offers excellent sightings of whales, dolphins, and seabirds—delivering the kind of wildlife encounters that make Tenerife famous. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s not suitable for those with motion sickness or wheelchair users, given the boat’s design and ride conditions.

If you’re someone who values responsible tourism, loves a storybook adventure, and wants a good chance of seeing marine mammals in their natural environment, this cruise is likely a perfect fit. Families, nature lovers, and curious travelers will all find something to love here.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly and legally compliant: Operates with a Blue Flag permit, focusing on minimal disturbance.
• Pirate-themed vessel: Adds a fun, memorable twist to the wildlife experience.
• Wildlife sightings: Expect to see whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds depending on the season.
• Respectful approach: No chasing, feeding, or interfering with marine animals.
• Swim stop: Includes a brief opportunity to swim or snorkel near a scenic cave.
• Excellent reviews: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides, good value, and memorable sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This whale watching cruise offers an authentic, eco-conscious journey into the waters surrounding Tenerife. It’s not just about ticking wildlife off a list—it’s about observing animals behaving naturally, thanks to the crew’s respectful approach. The boat itself is a classic pirate-style vessel, which provides a playful atmosphere without compromising safety or environmental standards.

You’ll start your day with a warm welcome and safety briefing from the crew, who are certified professionals with a genuine passion for marine life. The cruise begins with a scenic ride along the coast, giving you fantastic views of Tenerife’s rugged shoreline and iconic landmarks. This part of the trip sets a relaxed tone, perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze and snapping photos.

The Wildlife Sightings

Depending on the season, you may encounter a variety of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Many reviewers emphasize their luck in seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even hammerhead sharks—though sightings aren’t guaranteed, the chances are high given the boat’s operational area beyond three nautical miles from shore. Multiple guests highlight how close the animals come, with some noting whales swimming under the boat as if they’re greeting you.

One reviewer, Angus, shared that they saw dolphins, flying fish, and whales, and even enjoyed a 15-minute swim. Peyman recounted seeing a big group of pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and enjoying the fun and friendly crew. The crew not only points out the animals but also shares educational insights in multiple languages, making the experience accessible and engaging for everyone.

The Swim Stop

A key highlight is the swimming stop near Valley Cave, where guests can jump into the sea with provided floats—perfect for a quick cool-down or a snorkel if you have gear. Reviews like Kirsty’s mention how the swim in the sea was lovely and refreshing, and the crew’s attention to safety (including offering life jackets for kids) makes it a stress-free part of the trip.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with a well-structured mix of sightseeing and activity. After the initial meeting and safety briefing, the boat cruises along the coastline for about 20 minutes, soaking in the scenic vistas. This is a relaxing way to anticipate what’s ahead.

Next, the main wildlife watching segment lasts up to 60 minutes, where the crew actively searches for whales, dolphins, and turtles. Guests often find this part magical—many reviews mention seeing whales breach or dolphins playing right beside the boat. The crew’s respectful distance and quiet navigation help ensure animals behave naturally, providing authentic sightings.

The swimming stop lasts around 15 minutes, giving guests the chance to jump into the water and enjoy a brief, exhilarating dip. Many reviewers emphasize how well-organized and safe the swim is, with some noting that the crew kindly allowed their children to jump off the ship.

Finally, the return journey features a Q&A session, photo opportunities, and tales from the crew, rounding off a well-paced experience that balances education and fun.

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The Crew and Environment

A major selling point is the Green, responsible approach. The tour is Blue Flag certified, which confirms compliance with strict environmental standards. The crew is described as knowledgeable, friendly, and multilingual, making it easy to ask questions or learn about the wildlife and local marine conservation efforts.

Guests frequently mention their guides’ humor and storytelling skills—they transform a wildlife tour into a lively, educational adventure. The crew ensures no animals are chased or disturbed, which is a crucial aspect for environmentally conscious travelers. Many guests express appreciation for this non-invasive approach, knowing they’re supporting a sustainable model of tourism.

Practical Details

Price and Value

At $18 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. Considering the length, wildlife sightings, swimming opportunity, and expert guides, it’s a budget-friendly way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment. Guests note the generous time for wildlife viewing and the quality of onboard amenities, such as toilets and multilingual guides, adding to the overall value.

What to Bring

Weather variations mean packing warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen is wise, even if it’s warm on land. Guests also mention wearing clothes that can get wet or dirty, especially if jumping into the sea. Towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you plan to swim.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This experience isn’t suited for wheelchair users or those prone to motion sickness. The boat’s size and ride conditions can be challenging, so plan accordingly. If you’re worried about seasickness, some reviews recommend taking medication beforehand.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point varies depending on your booking option but is conveniently located in Tenerife. The trip ends back at the original meeting spot, making it simple to plan your day afterward. If you select the hotel pickup option, transport is included.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences from Real Guests

Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable crew, like the duo Gorje, Javier, and Kristof, who were praised for their storytelling and humor. Guests appreciated the informative commentary in multiple languages, making it easy for international visitors to follow along.

The sightings consistently impress guests—whether it’s pilot whales, dolphins, or even a turtle—highlighting how well this tour manages to deliver on its wildlife promises. The swimming stop is especially well-received; guests enjoy the brief but invigorating dip in the ocean, often remarking on how relaxing and fun it is to jump from the pirate ship deck.

The overall sentiment is that this trip delivers good value for money and a respectful encounter with nature. Guests mention how the small to medium boat size offers plenty of space and comfort, avoiding overcrowding.

The Sum Up

This Respectful Whale Watching Pirate Cruise in Tenerife offers a balanced blend of fun, education, and conservation. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see marine mammals in their natural environment without disturbing them, all while enjoying a playful pirate theme. With stellar reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, stunning wildlife sightings, and reasonable price, it’s clear this tour appeals to those seeking an authentic, responsible adventure.

While it might not suit everyone—particularly those sensitive to motion or needing wheelchair access—the majority of adventurers will find this experience rewarding. It’s a fantastic way to combine a love of animals, respect for the environment, and a touch of pirate fun, creating memories that will last well beyond your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour includes floats for kids and is family-friendly, with many reviews mentioning children’s enjoyment and safety during the swim stop.

How long is the entire cruise?
The experience lasts about 2 hours, including safety briefing, wildlife viewing, and the swim stop.

Can I see whales and dolphins every trip?
While sightings are common and frequent, they depend on the season and weather conditions. Many guests report seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even turtles during their trip.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, drinks such as coffee, soft drinks, beer, water, and homemade sangria are available for purchase. Some reviews mention the reasonably priced drinks and homemade cocktails.

Is it a chaser boat tour?
No, the boat operates with a respectful, non-chasing approach, ensuring animals aren’t disturbed.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, sun protection, and clothes suitable for getting wet or dirty. Towels aren’t included, so pack your own if you plan to swim.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, due to the boat’s design and ride conditions.

Embark on this sustainable, fun-filled adventure if you’re eager for a genuine wildlife encounter in Tenerife—minus the stress of invasive tourism, and with plenty of pirate-themed memories to take home.

You can check availability for your dates here: