La Palma’s Bussard Premium Tour offers a captivating marine biology and nature experience. Over 3.5 hours, guests sail along the picturesque west coast, visiting natural wonders and engaging in hands-on conservation activities led by a knowledgeable marine biologist. With delicious Canarian cuisine, snorkeling, and the chance to spot whales and dolphins, this intimate tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life. But what truly sets this tour apart is its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
Key Points
- Immersive 3.5-hour La Palma marine biology tour aboard the Bussard, with a maximum of 12 guests for an intimate experience.
- Guided by a marine biologist, offering hands-on activities like water sample collection and hydrophone use to monitor ocean health.
- Sailing along the west coast, exploring natural wonders like Cueva Bonita and Playa de la Veta, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
- Enjoy freshly grilled Canarian cuisine, including homemade breads, marinated peppers, and traditional papas arrugadas with mojo rojo.
- Chance to spot whales and dolphins, with insights on local populations and conservation efforts to foster a deeper appreciation for marine life.
Tour Overview and Booking Details
The La Palma Marine Biology Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the island’s stunning coastline and marine life aboard the historical wooden boat, Bussard.
The La Palma Marine Biology Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the island’s stunning coastline and marine life aboard the historical wooden boat, Bussard.
Priced from €69.00 per person, the 3.5-hour tour is available in English and Spanish for a maximum of 12 guests. Participants can enjoy a welcome drink and introduction by a marine biologist before sailing along the west coast and actively participating in marine biology activities.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option make booking convenient.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this tour provides an intimate, educational, and memorable experience.
Looking for more options in La Palma? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Onboard Experiences
After the welcome drink and introduction by a marine biologist, guests will sail along the west coast of La Palma, visiting various natural wonders.
They’ll explore Cueva Bonita, Porís de Candelaria, Playa de la Veta, and the new lava delta.
Onboard, guests actively participate in marine biology activities – collecting water samples, analyzing water quality, and learning about ocean conservation.
Depending on sea conditions, they’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
The tour provides an immersive experience, blending nature, science, and culinary delights for an unforgettable day on the island.
Canarian Culinary Delights
Freshly grilled Canarian cuisine complements the marine biology exploration, with guests savoring an array of local specialties aboard the Bussard. The menu features homemade breads, marinated peppers, and creamy Manchego cheese. For the main course, guests can choose between grilled chicken or a vegetarian option of local goat cheese. The popular Canarian dish, papas arrugadas with mojo rojo, rounds out the meal. Dessert is a lactose-free caramel cream, a sweet end to the culinary journey. Non-alcoholic drinks are included, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
| Starter | Main Course | Dessert |
| — | — | — |
| Fresh bread with olives | Grilled chicken fillets | Homemade caramel cream |
| Marinated red peppers | Papas arrugadas with mojo rojo | |
| Manchego cheese | Grilled local goat cheese (vegetarian) | |
Marine Biology and Conservation Efforts
Participants on the La Palma Marine Biology Tour actively engage in hands-on marine conservation efforts. Under the guidance of a marine biologist, guests collect water samples and analyze water quality.
This data helps researchers monitor ocean health and identify areas in need of protection. The use of a hydrophone allows guests to listen to the underwater soundscape, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine life.
More Great Tours NearbyWhale and Dolphin Watching
During the latter part of the tour, guests often spot whales and dolphins in the waters surrounding La Palma.
Using a hydrophone, they can hear the underwater sounds of these magnificent creatures. The tour’s marine biologist provides insights into the local whale and dolphin populations, their behaviors, and the importance of conservation efforts.
Guests may witness:
-
Breaching humpback whales
-
Playful pods of bottlenose dolphins
-
Elusive pilot whales
-
Majestic sperm whales
-
Acrobatic spinner dolphins
These sightings leave a lasting impression, inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect the marine ecosystems of La Palma.
Volcanic Landscapes and Geological Insights
As the boat sails along the west coast of La Palma, guests gain a unique perspective on the island’s volcanic landscapes and geological formation.
The new lava delta, created by the 2021 eruption, is a prime example of the island’s dynamic geology. Guests learn about the complex volcanic processes that have shaped La Palma over millions of years, from the formation of calderas to the creation of its rugged coastline.
Through interactive activities and discussions with the marine biologist, guests develop a deeper appreciation for the geological forces that continue to transform this captivating Canary Island.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Visitors consistently praise the La Palma Marine Biology Tour, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 61 reviews.
Customers highlight:
-
The knowledgeable and engaging guide, rated 4.9/5.
-
The comfortable and well-organized transportation, rated 4.8/5.
-
The excellent value for money, rated 4.6/5.
-
The relaxing and educational nature of the tour.
-
The high-quality Canarian cuisine and locally-sourced ingredients.
The tour’s exceptional ratings and glowing customer reviews underscore its popularity and ability to deliver an unforgettable marine biology experience on the stunning island of La Palma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour information doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. Participants of all ages are likely welcome, though families with young children may want to inquire about any age restrictions or recommendations for this particular tour.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?
No, swimmers and non-swimmers can participate as the tour includes optional snorkeling dependent on sea conditions. The crew provides life jackets and ensures guest safety throughout the boat tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?
No, passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on board. The tour includes a freshly grilled Canarian meal, non-alcoholic drinks, and alcoholic beverages available for purchase. The experience is designed to provide a complete culinary offering.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
There isn’t a specific student or senior discount mentioned for this tour. However, the tour offers flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which may provide some cost savings for certain travelers.
How Many Restrooms Are Available on the Boat?
The boat has one restroom available for guests. It’s a compact but functional facility that allows for a comfortable experience during the 3.5-hour tour. The restroom is regularly maintained to ensure cleanliness.
The Sum Up
The Bussard Premium Tour is a captivating 3.5-hour marine biology and nature experience on the stunning island of La Palma. With a maximum of 12 guests, this intimate tour offers a chance to explore the island’s natural wonders, engage in hands-on conservation activities, and savor delicious Canarian cuisine, all while learning from a knowledgeable marine biologist. The tour’s stunning landscapes, diverse marine life, and exceptional customer feedback make it a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting La Palma.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Hiking & Trekking Tours in La Palma
More Guided Tours in La Palma
- Guided tour: Timanfaya National Park and La Geria with pick-up
- La Palma: Tajogaite Volcano Guided Hike
- La Palma: Springs Marcos y Cordero Guided Trekking Tour
- La Palma: Guided Tour to Tajogaite Volcano With Transfer
- La Palma: Island Highlights Guided Bus Tour
- La Palma: Guided Trekking Tour to Volcanoes South
More Tour Reviews in La Palma
Still browsing? Here are more La Palma experiences we've covered recently
- Guided tour: Timanfaya National Park and La Geria with pick-up
- Lanzarote Island Tour (Full-day)
- Hiking Route Visit to the New Volcano of La Palma
- La Palma: Tajogaite Volcano Guided Hike
- La Palma: Stargazing in the best sky in the world
- La Palma: Group Stargazing in Private Volcano Location
- La Palma: Springs Marcos y Cordero Guided Trekking Tour
- La Palma: Basic Diver Certification With 2 Atlantic Dives
- La Palma: Volcano Route Buggy Tour
- PADI Discover Scuba Diving Los Cancajos La Palma
- La Palma: Treasures of the Northwest Day Trp With Lunch
- La Palma: SSI Try Scuba Program