Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching, thanks to the resident pods of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins that live just off the coast year-round. With tours leaving daily from Los Cristianos harbour, it’s an easy and unforgettable adventure to add to your trip.
Here’s what you need to know for the perfect whale watching trip in Tenerife.
Here’s what you need to know for the perfect whale watching trip in Tenerife.
Why Los Cristianos?
Los Cristianos is one of Tenerife’s main departure points for whale watching tours. From here, boats head into the Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve, a protected area where sightings are nearly guaranteed.
- Pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are resident species.
- In winter and spring, migrating species (like humpback whales) may also pass through.
Why Go:
Whale watching here has a 90%+ success rate - you’re almost guaranteed to see marine life.
Try:
A morning cruise when the sea is usually calmer.
Good For:
Families, nature enthusiasts, photographers.
Choosing the Right Boat
There are tours for every budget and travel style:
- Eco-friendly catamarans (e.g., Freebird, White Tenerife) - stable, shaded, and great for families.
- Smaller sailing boats (e.g., Third Element, Bonadea II) - more intimate, fewer people onboard.
- Luxury private charters - perfect for groups or special occasions.
Why Go:
Different boat styles mean you can choose between group fun or private luxury.
Try:
A small sailing boat if you want a quieter, close-to-nature feel.
Good For:
Couples, groups of friends, travellers prone to seasickness (smaller boats move less).
Onboard Experience
Tours usually last 2–3 hours, and many include extras:
Bring a light jacket - it can get breezy at sea. And don’t forget sunscreen!
- A short swim stop in a sheltered bay.
- Free snacks or drinks.
- Multilingual guides explaining marine life.
Bring a light jacket - it can get breezy at sea. And don’t forget sunscreen!
Why Go:
It’s more than sightseeing - it’s a full morning or afternoon experience.
Try:
A tour with a swim/snorkel stop for the best family fun.
Good For:
Families with kids, curious travellers, first-time whale watchers.
Whether you’re spotting pilot whales, swimming in turquoise bays, or watching dolphins jump beside your boat, whale watching from Los Cristianos is a memory you’ll treasure forever. And the best part? The ocean adventure starts just steps from the harbour.
While this list is based on personal visits, we’re open to featuring more great spots.
If you run a business in Tenerife and want to be included, let’s talk
📌 Book in advance during high season (Christmas, Easter, summer) - spaces fill quickly.
📌 If you get seasick, take motion tablets before boarding.
📌 Choose tours certified with the “Blue Boat” flag - these follow ethical whale-watching rules.
📌 If you get seasick, take motion tablets before boarding.
📌 Choose tours certified with the “Blue Boat” flag - these follow ethical whale-watching rules.
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