This short trip delivers real wildlife time on the water, plus a swim break in a calm cove. I love that it’s designed around pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, with the crew working to spot animals without turning it into a noisy circus. I also like that it includes a snorkeling stop with gear and time to look at fish up close, not just sightseeing from above.

The biggest thing to keep in mind is that this experience is weather dependent. If the conditions aren’t right, the operator may shift dates or offer a refund option, so a flexible plan helps.

Key takeaways before you go

• Small group feel (max 20 travelers): easier viewing and a more personal vibe than huge catamarans
• Pilot whale and dolphin searching: you sail toward Gomera and focus on sightings in the open water
• Snorkel + provided mask and snorkel: swim in a small cove and see fish on the seabed
• Snacks during the outing: plan on food onboard, not just a quick water break
• Coastline info on the way back: guides explain what you’re seeing along the Adeje coast

Sailing Out of Costa Adeje: 30 Minutes Toward Gomera

You’ll start at Av. de Colón, 4, 38660 Costa Adeje, and the day moves at an easy pace. Once you’re aboard, the first meaningful chunk is a ~30-minute sail toward the island of Gomera, timed specifically to get you into better whale-spotting waters.

This initial leg matters more than you might think. A lot of whale tours waste time circling, or they spend half the morning still “heading out.” Here, the route is set up for getting to the action zone quickly, so your time stays packed with actual viewing.

Also, because the group size is capped at 20, you’ll usually be able to shift positions for better angles without fighting for space. And with a mobile ticket and an English-offered experience, you’re not trying to decode a complicated system once you arrive.

Finding Pilot Whales and Dolphins (Without the Chaos)

The whole point of this excursion is to meet pilot whales and dolphins where they live. The plan is to sail out, then watch for whales and admire them in their natural surroundings. The best part is the crew’s focus on respectful proximity—staying attentive to the animals’ behavior and trying not to disturb them.

What I like here is the balance: you get excitement, but you also get context. The guides spend time explaining which animals you may see and what life is like for them. You’ll get this kind of “what you’re looking at and why it matters” guidance as you go, so the sightings feel more than random luck.

One detail that stood out in the experience reports: people were genuinely amazed by how close they could be. Seeing pilot whales right beside the boat is the kind of moment that makes a short tour feel like a full day.

A practical note: sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the effort is real

No whale tour can promise sightings. Still, the structure helps: you’re not just sitting in place. You’re actively sailing toward likely waters and then looking from the boat once you’re in the right area. If you care about maximizing odds, this setup is a solid fit.

The Small Cove Snorkel Stop: Mask, Snorkel, and Fish

After the main viewing time, the trip shifts to a calmer scene: a small cove where you can swim with a provided mask and snorkel. This is where the excursion stops being only about whales and turns into a “see, then experience” day.

Here’s what you can expect:

• You get time to swim and snorkel
• You’ll be able to admire the seabed and watch fish
• You’ll have your snacks onboard while you’re on the water

In other words, it’s not just a quick photo moment. You’re actually using the ocean the way locals do—briefly getting in the water and looking down instead of only looking out.

Also, the trip includes food onboard beyond just light snacks. One report specifically mentioned a small sandwich and a drink offered. That’s a nice touch for a 3-hour outing, because it means you’re not forced to hunt for something after you get back.

Who this snorkel break suits (and who should consider alternatives)

If you like simple ocean time—seeing fish, cooling off in the sea, and using provided gear—this stop is a highlight. If you don’t want to swim, you might still enjoy it from the boat while others go in, but the tour’s energy clearly includes the water experience.

Back on the Water: Adeje Coast Views and Guide Talk

On the return, you’ll spend about 30 minutes heading back, and that stretch is used well. You can discover beaches and natural coves, and you’ll get information from the guides about the Adeje coast while you’re sailing.

This part is underrated. The viewing action is the headline, but the return gives you context for the coastline you’re cruising past. It helps you understand what you’re seeing, rather than snapping photos with no idea what the features are.

And because the trip is only about 3 hours total, the schedule feels tight without being rushed. You’re not stuck on a long boat ride with endless waiting. You’re on the water, doing the key activities, then back before you feel worn out.

Price and Value: Why $51.66 Can Work (If You Want This Mix)

At $51.66 per person for an approximately 3-hour trip, the value depends on what you want from Tenerife.

Here’s the value logic I see:

• You’re paying for wildlife time (pilot whales + dolphins potential)
• You’re also paying for a real swim/snorkel break (mask + snorkel provided)
• You get onboard snacks, plus at least one mention of a sandwich and drink
• The group stays small at up to 20, which usually improves the experience quality

If you only cared about seeing whales from a deck, a cheaper option might exist. But the moment you add snorkeling and a guided, structured route, this starts to make sense as a “do the big things in a short window” experience.

It’s also a family-friendly style of outing. One group of six described how their kids—ranging from early teens to young adults—lit up during dolphin/whale sightings, then enjoyed snorkeling. If your goal is a memorable half-day that covers multiple interests, this format is built for you.

English-speaking experience: good for quick understanding

Since the tour is offered in English, you’ll likely be able to follow the guide’s explanations without language stress. For many visitors, that’s the difference between just seeing animals and actually understanding what you’re looking at.

Booking Timing and Practical Tips for the Day

On average, this type of trip is booked about 18 days in advance, so planning ahead helps you lock in a spot—especially during busier weeks.

A few practical things can make your day smoother:

• Bring patience for parking. One note from experience reports: arriving early helps because parking can be hard when lots fill up.
• Use the mobile ticket. The tour uses mobile tickets, so have it ready on your phone.
• Be near public transport. The meeting point is in an area that’s convenient if you’re not driving.

And again, treat this as a weather-dependent ocean activity. When conditions are poor, plans can change. If your schedule is tight, build some flexibility around your chosen date.

Who should book this Puerto Colón whale trip?

This is a strong match if you want:

• A short, high-impact experience rather than a long day
• Chance to see pilot whales and dolphins on a focused route toward Gomera
• A snorkeling stop with gear provided and time to look at fish
• A small group setting where spotting wildlife feels less crowded

It may not be ideal if:

• You want a super long itinerary (this is about 3 hours)
• You strongly prefer activities that don’t depend on conditions at sea
• You dislike being on a boat at all

The tour also indicates that most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, which is good to know for planning.

Should you book OCEAN BLUE TENERIFE’s whale excursion?

If you’re in Tenerife for a few days and you want a half-day plan that mixes wildlife and water time, I’d lean yes. The blend is the key: pilot whale and dolphin viewing, then a cove snorkel, then coastal sightseeing on the way back. Add small group size and food onboard, and the value story holds up.

I’d book it if you’re realistic about weather. If you can handle the possibility of rescheduling due to conditions, this kind of Tenerife morning or afternoon is exactly the sort of trip that gives you a story you’ll still be telling weeks later.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto Colón whale excursion?

It runs for about 3 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Av. de Colón, 4, 38660 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

What animals can I expect to see?

The trip is designed to look for pilot whales and dolphins.

Is snorkeling included, and do I get the gear?

Yes. You’ll head to a small cove for swimming and snorkeling with a mask and snorkel provided.

Are snacks included?

Yes. You’ll have snacks during the outing, and there is mention of a small sandwich and a drink being offered.

What group size is this tour limited to?

This activity has a maximum of 20 travelers.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

Do I get a mobile ticket and confirmation?

You’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking, and the tour uses a mobile ticket.

Does the experience depend on weather?

Yes. It requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. Free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

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