Los Cristianos: Viking Cruise Whales & Dolphins Watching

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Tenerife’s marine life, the Viking Cruise from Los Cristianos might just be your best bet. While it’s not your typical boat tour, this two-hour voyage combines the fun of a Viking-inspired adventure with the thrill of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

What we love about this experience is its stunning ocean scenery, the friendly and knowledgeable crew, and the chance to see marine creatures up close without feeling like you’re on a rushed, commercial tour. But, it’s worth noting that the boat can be a bit rocky, so if you’re prone to seasickness, bring your medication or consider a calmer day. This tour is perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a playful, relaxed outing on the water that offers great value for money.

Key Points

• Authentic Viking Theme: A fun, visually engaging boat designed to mimic a Viking ship, adding a playful atmosphere.
• Wildlife Encounters: Frequent sightings of whales, dolphins, and other marine life in Tenerife’s rich waters.
• Comfort & Space: Plenty of room on board for all guests, with facilities like toilets and a sound system.
• Expert Crew: Multilingual, friendly guides with a reputation for attentive, caring service.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, with full refunds available up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids (with some considerations for motion sickness) and accessible for wheelchairs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Viking Experience in Los Cristianos: What to Expect

Imagine an afternoon where you’re not just observing marine life but doing it aboard a ship that looks like it’s straight out of a Norse saga. The Ragnarok, built for comfort and themed to resemble a Viking vessel, sets sail from the lively harbor of Los Cristianos. This isn’t your typical glass-and-plastic speedboat—it’s a character-rich boat that offers an engaging visual vibe, complete with a powerful sound system to keep the atmosphere lively.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What the Day Looks Like

The tour kicks off at Puerto de Los Cristianos, conveniently located right next to the beach, making it easy to find. After a brief safety briefing, the boat departs towards the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera, a known hotspot for marine life. The journey is roughly two hours long, during which the crew will guide you through the sights and sounds of the Atlantic.

What sets this tour apart is how much it emphasizes respectful viewing of wildlife. Many travelers have noted the crew’s professionalism and care—it’s clear they prioritize responsible interaction with the animals. Says one reviewer, “We got to see pilot whales very close and dolphins, all in a respectful manner,” highlighting how these encounters are not only exciting but ethical.

The Sights & Encounters

The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera are bursting with marine activity. Expect to see dolphins and, with a bit of luck, whales like pilot whales and possibly even sharks or turtles. Multiple reviews mention how many guests were lucky enough to witness pods of pilot whales on several occasions, sometimes even multiple sightings during the same trip. One traveler described it as “an unforgettable experience to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, with guides who are incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic.”

The crew, including guides who speak both English and Spanish, are praised for their friendliness and ability to entertain and inform simultaneously. They often share fun facts about the animals, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.

The Atmosphere on Board

The Viking ship Ragnarok offers ample space for guests, so everyone can relax without feeling cramped. The boat’s decor adds to the fun—think wooden details, shields, and Norse motifs—making it a visual treat, especially for kids. There are toilets on board for comfort, and a bar where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Reviewers mention the bar’s reasonably priced offerings, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The sound system plays music that complements the Viking theme, adding a lively vibe to the trip. For families, the boat’s friendly, lively atmosphere, combined with the engaging guides, makes it a hit. And for those who prefer to stay connected, the crew’s attentiveness ensures everyone feels cared for, even those who might be prone to seasickness.

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The Value of This Viking Voyage

While prices vary, many reviewers agree that the trip offers excellent value for money. Seeing whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with knowledgeable guides and a fun theme, makes for a memorable outing that won’t break the bank. The tour includes unlimited drinking water, and the overall experience is praised for its balance of entertainment, education, and wildlife viewing.

Some mention the possibility of purchasing photos or drinks, but most agree that the core experience—spotting marine life in Tenerife’s waters—is well worth the ticket price. Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind for travelers unsure of the weather or their schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a lighthearted, engaging marine adventure with great scenery. Ideal for families with children, wildlife lovers, or anyone looking for a relaxed day on the water, it caters to all ages. Keep in mind, if you’re sensitive to motion sickness, it’s wise to prepare accordingly, as the boat can move quite a bit.

Those interested in a more interactive, themed experience will appreciate the Viking decor and lively crew. It’s also a good choice if you want a more spacious, comfortable boat rather than a crowded speedboat tour.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive 15 minutes early at the Puerto de Los Cristianos to ensure smooth boarding.
• Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen—the sun can be strong, and you’ll be exposed for a couple of hours.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand or opting for a calmer day.
• You might want to purchase drinks or snacks at the onboard bar, but they are available at reasonable prices.
• The boat is wheelchair accessible, but manual wheelchairs are recommended over electric ones for safety reasons.
• Pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
• Remember, no bare feet on board—flat, slip-resistant shoes are best.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, attentive crew, with some mentioning guides like “Javier” and “Luis” for their professionalism and engaging storytelling. Many have noted how respectful wildlife viewing is prioritized—no chasing, just watching.

One mom shared how the crew was incredibly caring when her son was seasick, saying, “The Vikings were very helpful and caring,” which adds a personal touch to the experience. Others highlighted the character of the boat, with comments like “loads of character and something different from typical catamarans,” emphasizing its charm.

The opportunity to see pilot whales and dolphins multiple times in one trip is described as “the best part,” making this a standout activity in Tenerife for wildlife lovers. The combination of scenic ocean views and marine encounters makes it a well-rounded, fulfilling adventure.

FAQ

How long is the Viking cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with departure times varying depending on availability.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids having a fantastic time, though motion sickness can be an issue for some.

Are drinks available on board?
Yes, there is a bar offering drinks and snacks for purchase at reasonable prices.

Is the Viking boat accessible for wheelchairs?
The boat is wheelchair accessible, but guests are kindly asked to bring manual wheelchairs instead of electric for safety.

What marine animals might I see?
Sightings often include whales (like pilot whales), dolphins, turtles, and occasionally sharks.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and possibly seasickness medication if you’re sensitive.

Is it a good value for the price?
Many guests feel it offers great value, considering the wildlife sightings, friendly crew, and unique Viking theme.

Can I take photos?
Yes, photos are available for purchase, but the trip itself offers ample opportunities for capturing marine mammals and scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the trip; if canceled, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Viking-themed whale and dolphin watching tour from Los Cristianos offers more than just marine encounters—it delivers a fun, relaxed, and visually engaging experience that appeals to all ages. With friendly guides, a charming boat, and frequent wildlife sightings, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a memorable day at sea in Tenerife.

If you’re in the mood for an adventure that combines playful storytelling with real-world wildlife moments, this tour hits the mark. Perfect for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a break from the usual, it promises a two-hour escape filled with natural wonder and Viking flair.

Whether you’re dreaming of spotting whales, enjoying scenic ocean views, or just having a good laugh aboard a Viking ship, this tour is a delightful way to spend part of your Tenerife holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: