Whale Watching in Tenerife: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
Tenerife is officially the European capital for whale and dolphin watching. Unlike other destinations where sightings are a game of luck, the 2,000-metre-deep channel between Tenerife and La Gomera is home to a permanent colony of Pilot Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins.
If you are planning your trip for 2026, here is the essential «British Guide» to getting it right.
Where do the boats depart from?
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There are two main hubs, and your choice depends on where you are staying.
Puerto Colon (Costa Adeje): The most popular. Ideal if you are staying in Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos, or Costa Adeje. Most of the large catamarans and family-friendly boats leave from here.
Los Gigantes: The most spectacular. If you want to see the whales with the backdrop of the 600m cliffs, this is the place. It’s a bit further away, but the scenery is unbeatable.
What species will you see?
You are almost guaranteed (95% success rate) to see.
Pilot Whales: They are very calm and usually hang around the surface.
Bottlenose Dolphins: Playful and often swim alongside the boats.
Insider Tip: If you are lucky and visiting in winter or spring, you might spot migratory species like Sperm Whales or even the occasional Orca.
Choosing the Right Tour (Avoid the Crowds)
Not all boat trips are the same. On GetYourGuide, you’ll find three main types:
The Eco-Friendly Small Boat: Limited to 10–12 people. These boats are quieter and less intrusive for the animals. Highly recommended for a more intimate experience.
The Family Catamaran: Larger, more stable (better if you get seasick), and often include lunch and a swim stop in a secluded bay.
The Luxury Sailboat: Perfect for couples or small groups. Usually includes local tapas and drinks.
Best Time of Day: Morning or Afternoon?
Morning (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Usually the best for families. The sea is typically calmer, which is vital if you are worried about seasickness.
Late Afternoon: Spectacular for sunsets. Seeing the dolphins jump with the sun setting behind La Gomera is a world-class photo op.
Practical Tips for UK Travellers
Free Cancellation: Only book tours that offer a 24-hour refund. Tenerife’s weather is great, but the sea can sometimes be too rough for comfort.
The «Blue Boat» Flag: Ensure your boat has the Barco Azul flag. This means they are legally authorised and follow strict rules to protect the whales (keeping a safe distance, etc.).
What to bring: Even if it’s 25°C in Las Americas, the breeze on the open sea can be chilly. Bring a light hoodie!
Book in advance: Tenerife is busier than ever in 2026. The best-rated «small group» tours often sell out 3–4 days in advance. Don’t leave it until you get to the harbour, as you’ll likely end up on a crowded «party boat» instead of a quality nature tour.
❓Whale Watching in Tenerife: Frequently Asked Questions
In Tenerife, the success rate is incredibly high—around 95%. Because the Pilot Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins are resident species, they stay in the same area all year round. While they are wild animals and nothing is 100% guaranteed, it is very rare to return to the harbour without a sighting.
Yes, provided you book a boat with the «Barco Azul» (Blue Boat) flag. This official certification ensures the crew follows strict regulations: keeping a respectful distance, not feeding the animals, and turning off engines to avoid stress. Please, look for this in the tour highlights before booking.
Any month is great! Unlike other parts of the world, there is no «off-season» here. However, if you want to see migratory species like Baleen Whales or Sperm Whales, the best time is between November and April.
When deciding where to set sail, your choice usually comes down to location versus scenery. Choose Costa Adeje (Puerto Colon) if you’re looking for pure convenience; it’s the main hub for those staying in the big southern resorts and offers the widest range of large, stable catamarans. However, if you don’t mind a short drive, Choose Los Gigantes for a far more dramatic experience. The tours here often use smaller, more intimate boats, and the chance to see whales cruising beneath those 600m volcanic cliffs is a massive bonus that you won’t get anywhere else on the island.
If you’re worried about «mal de mer,» we recommend booking a large catamaran. They are much more stable than small speedboats or sailboats. Also, try to book a morning departure (around 10:00 AM), as the Atlantic tends to be much calmer before the afternoon winds pick up.