Tenerife: Whale watching tour with swim and lunch on yacht for 22 passengers

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of whales and dolphins while enjoying the stunning coast of Tenerife, this whale-watching tour offers a blend of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and relaxing moments on the water. It’s a small-group experience, which means you’ll get a more intimate and personalized adventure compared to crowded boat trips.

What sets this tour apart? First, the small yacht capacity of just 22 passengers keeps things cozy and allows for better whale sightings. Second, the quality of the experience—from knowledgeable guides to the included lunch and swimming stop—really adds value. Lastly, the respectful approach to wildlife ensures you see marine animals in their natural habitat without disturbance, which matters if you’re eco-conscious.

A minor consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll want to bring your own beachwear or change of clothes for the swimming stop. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who love marine wildlife, enjoy small-group atmospheres, and want a scenic, relaxed day at sea.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Only 22 passengers, offering a more personalized experience.
• Wildlife Focus: Respectful whale and marine animal watching in their natural environment.
• Comfort & Convenience: Modern yacht with toilet, sun loungers, and upper deck for views.
• Inclusive Lunch: Healthy local-style meal with drinks, including wine and beer.
• Additional Activities: Swimming near the cliffs, with weather permitting.
• Expert Guides: Multilingual guides provide insights and enhance the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The day begins with pickup options at multiple convenient locations around Los Cristianos. You can choose to be picked up from your hotel or meet at one of the designated spots—it’s flexible and designed to make your start as smooth as possible. Once at the port, you’ll board the Neptuno, a boat praised for its close-to-the-water perspective and the lack of overcrowding, making it ideal for wildlife viewing.

The Boat and Comfort

The boat itself features an interior salon, bathrooms, and plenty of space to relax. You can lounge on the sunbeds or admire the coastline from the upper deck, where the captain often offers commentary. The Neptuno has a “Blue Flag” award, meaning it meets high standards of safety and environmental care—another tick for eco-minded travelers.

Wildlife Watching

The main goal of the tour is to spot whales—especially pilot whales—dolphins, and sometimes even sea turtles. Reviewers have raved about the close encounters, and one mentioned seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and a sea turtle all in one trip. The guides are knowledgeable and multilingual, providing insights into the animals’ behaviors and the Atlantic’s ecosystem. Watching these creatures in their natural habitat, at a respectful distance, makes the experience all the more special.

Scenic Highlights & Cultural Stories

While cruising, you’ll sail near the cliffs of Los Cristianos, famous for attractions like the Cave of Love, which adds a layer of local charm to your journey. The views are stunning, with chances to snap pictures of the coastline and the open Atlantic.

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Swimming & Lunch Break

After about 1.5 hours of whale spotting, the boat takes you to a designated swimming spot near the cliffs. Weather often permits a refreshing dip, which is a highlight for many travelers. Reviewers have appreciated this relaxing pause, giving them time to cool off and enjoy the natural scenery.

The included lunch is hearty and traditional, featuring rice with vegetables, roasted chicken, meatballs, and fresh salad. During the meal, you can enjoy drinks such as wine, beer, soft drinks, or water, making it a well-rounded, leisurely break. The entire experience runs for approximately 3 hours, balancing wildlife viewing with relaxation.

Return & Drop-off

After the swim and lunch, the boat heads back to Los Cristianos, with some of the 21 drop-off locations spread across the area, ensuring easy access back to your accommodation or preferred spot.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The attention to detail—like the small group size, respectful wildlife viewing, and comfortable boat amenities—creates an experience that feels more authentic and less rushed. The knowledgeable guides significantly enhance the trip with stories about the coastline and marine life, making it educational as well as entertaining.

The lunch and swimming stop provide a nice balance of activity and relaxation, perfect for those who want more than just a boat ride. Plus, the flexible pickup options and full refund policy up to 24 hours in advance** make booking low risk.

Travelers who love nature, appreciate good service, and want a more intimate experience will find this tour especially satisfying. It’s also ideal for families or small groups who prefer a relaxed atmosphere over larger, more crowded trips.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife whale-watching tour offers an authentic peek into the Atlantic’s marine life in a comfortable and respectful setting. The small yacht means better viewing and a more personal experience, while the inclusion of lunch and swimming adds a leisure element that makes the trip well-rounded.

If you’re after a wildlife adventure that combines scenic beauty, education, and a touch of luxury, this tour hits the mark. The knowledgeable guides, the chance to see pilot whales up close, and the peaceful, scenic environment make it a worthwhile activity for most travelers.

For those who value eco-conscious excursions and personalized service, this trip provides a meaningful way to connect with Tenerife’s natural world. It’s a fantastic choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, including whale watching, swimming, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the yacht rental, captain and crew, toilets, legal whale watching permits, a guided commentary, lunch, soft drinks, water, and drinks like wine and beer during lunch. Transportation to the port is also included.

Are there different pickup locations?
Yes, there are 21 pickup options around Los Cristianos to make your start easy and convenient.

Is the boat suitable for wildlife viewing?
Absolutely. The boat, Neptuno, is designed for close, respectful wildlife observation and is known for offering a better, less crowded experience.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, weather permitting, you’ll have time to swim near the cliffs, which many reviewers found relaxing and enjoyable.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed atmosphere and small group setting are generally family-friendly. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, change of clothes, and beachwear. Don’t forget sunscreen and your camera!

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is there a risk of seasickness?
While not explicitly mentioned, it’s wise to prepare if you’re prone to seasickness, especially since the trip involves open sea cruising.

In all, this whale-watching tour offers a well-balanced, authentic experience with a focus on wildlife, comfort, and local culture. Whether you’re eager to spot pilot whales or simply enjoy a peaceful day on the Atlantic, it’s an adventure that combines nature, comfort, and a touch of luxury in Tenerife.

You can check availability for your dates here: