Pilot whales and paella in one short trip. On the MAXICAT catamaran, I like the way the crew hunts for pilot whales and points things out fast, and I also like that you get unlimited drinks with a proper lunch. One caution: snorkel gear isn’t included, so pack your own if you want to snorkel at the swim stop.

You’ll start in Puerto Colón (Costa Adeje) and sail out along Tenerife’s south coast, with a planned window to cool off in the sea at Diego Hernández Bay. After the water time and lunch, you cruise back with big views of the coastline and the Teide Volcano in the distance.

This is a simple, fun outing for couples, families, and anyone who wants wildlife time without signing up for a full-day marathon. Just be ready for the fact that whale sightings depend on the ocean, not a checklist.

Key Things That Make MAXICAT Cruise Worth Your Time

• Crew-led wildlife spotting that helps you identify what you’re seeing as you sail.
• Pilot whales and dolphins are the main targets, with migratory birds also in the mix.
• Diego Hernández Bay swim stop with sunbathing nets and clear water for a quick (or long) swim.
• Paella lunch and unlimited drinks on board, so you’re not paying extra once you’re out there.
• Teide Volcano views as you head back along the Costa Adeje coast.
• Bring your own snorkel gear if you want to snorkel, since it’s not provided.

Puerto Colón to the Sea: How the Morning (and Pickup) Actually Works

The trip runs from Puerto Colón, right by the Costa Adeje coast. If you want the hotel pickup option, you’ll be picked up from selected areas in South Tenerife when that option is selected. There’s a specific note for the Playa Paraíso area: pickup only runs Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, so double-check your day.

If you’re meeting directly, go to Pantalan 9 in Puerto Colón. Look for the red catamaran with the inscription maxicat. Plan to get there a bit early so boarding feels calm, not rushed. And wear shoes you don’t mind getting a little wet if you’re walking around the harbor area.

Once you’re on board, you’ll get a safety briefing before you head out. That matters more than people think, because you’re going to be on a moving catamaran and then in the water soon after. You’ll also get the overall rundown from the staff so you know what to look for when you’re searching for whales and dolphins.

Spotting Whales and Dolphins Along Tenerife’s South Coast

This cruise is built around marine wildlife. You’ll sail along the Tenerife south coast, and the crew actively helps you look for animals in their natural habitat. The staff point out local species as you go, and you’re not just left staring at water and hoping.

The headline target is whales, especially pilot whales. On a good outing, you can also spot dolphins—some trips even include Atlantic spotted dolphins. Migratory birds may also show up during the search. The key idea is that you’re not doing a vague “maybe we’ll see something” experience. You’re on a route and guided search where sightings are the goal.

A detail I really like here is how hands-on the crew seems about finding the best viewing spots. Several people highlight that the crew quickly located pods and helped everyone get solid views for photos and watching. One technique mentioned in accounts of the trip is the captain using whistling to attract whales. Whether every day includes that exact moment or not, it’s the kind of active effort that tends to make a difference when wildlife is present.

Also, note the reality: you can’t control the sea. If you get a day with fewer animals, the rest of the trip still gives you value—lunch, drinks, and the swim stop are part of the package.

Diego Hernández Bay Swim Stop: Nets, Water Time, and Snorkeling

After the wildlife spotting, you head to Diego Hernández Bay. This is where the cruise shifts from “watching from the boat” to “doing something in the water.”

You’ll have time to relax in the sunbathing nets or cool off in the clear water. The nets are a practical choice: they’re easy to lie on, they keep you out of the direct boat deck sun, and you can still look around while you’re resting.

If you want to snorkel, bring your own gear. Snorkeling equipment is not included. Once you’re in the water, you can expect colorful fish around the area, and if luck is on your side, you might spot turtles. That “if you’re lucky” part matters—marine life is never guaranteed—but it’s a fair bet that the water time will be more than just swimming in a blank ocean.

One small thing: if you plan to snorkel, pack a towel and sunscreen. You’ll be out there long enough that sun can sneak up on you, even on a breezy day. And if you’re prone to seasickness, have a plan. People report the crew is helpful when someone feels unwell, but it still helps to protect yourself early with rest and hydration.

Lunch and Unlimited Drinks: The Value Boost in the Middle

Food is where this cruise quietly earns points. You get lunch on board, and it’s described as Canarian style rice with a paella lunch. In practice, it’s the kind of meal that keeps you fueled for the swim stop and doesn’t feel like a token snack.

Unlimited drinks are included, and that tends to be a big part of why the atmosphere stays cheerful on a catamaran. Accounts of the trip mention beer, sangria, and a range of soft drinks. You’ll likely be eating and drinking while the boat is still in the action area, which makes lunch feel connected to the day instead of something you do after the best part.

There’s also some menu flexibility. A vegetarian and vegan menu is available upon request, and there’s a children’s menu available upon request too. If that matters for your family, request it ahead of time so the kitchen isn’t scrambling.

About the food size and style: it’s generally described as good value rather than gourmet dining. If you’re bringing kids, keep expectations realistic. One note from people who took the trip with children is that kids’ food may not match the quality level of the paella, though the paella itself gets praise. Still, between the meal and the drinks included, this is one of the cleaner “no surprise costs” activities in the Costa Adeje area.

The Sail Back: Teide Volcano Views and Costa Adeje Coastline

Once the wildlife search and swim stop are done, you return toward Puerto Colón. This is when the cruise becomes more about scenery and relaxed cruising.

You’ll have big views along the Costa Adeje coast. And because Tenerife’s topography is so dramatic, the Teide Volcano can show up in the background as you head back. It’s the kind of visual reminder that you’re not just on a generic boat ride—you’re on an island with one of Spain’s most famous volcanic landmarks nearby.

The ride back is also a good time to compare notes with your group. If you saw pilot whales earlier, you might spot birds or dolphins again. If you didn’t see whales, the scenery and the swim stop still keep the day from feeling like a loss.

This is also where the catamaran helps. Catamarans tend to feel stable, and that can make a difference when you’re trying to sit, eat, and take photos without feeling tossed around.

Practical Tips for Better Sightings (and a Better Day)

You can’t force whales and dolphins to show up. But you can set yourself up so that when they do, you’re ready.

Bring your own snorkel gear

No gear is included, so if snorkeling is a must for you, pack it before you leave. Even basic goggles can make your swim stop more fun.

Use sunscreen and a hat before you need it

People talk about the sea breeze, but the sun still works. Get sunscreen on early, not after lunch.

Pick a viewing spot and stay put

When the crew calls out wildlife, move smoothly but don’t constantly shuffle around. Pick a spot near the best sightline and let the boat orientation do its job.

Have a seasickness plan

If you’re sensitive to motion, bring what usually works for you. The crew is said to be helpful, but prevention beats cleanup.

Bring towels and comfortable shoes

You’ll change plans quickly: boarding, safety briefing, open decks, then a swim stop. Comfortable shoes help around the harbor, and towels help when you’re back on board.

If you like calmer vibes, this operator may fit

Some people liked that the cruise felt less crowded than other operators. That’s not something you can count on every day, but it’s a good sign if you’re trying to avoid a packed party-boat.

Who Should Book This Whale and Dolphin Cruise from Costa Adeje

This cruise fits best if you want three things at once: wildlife time, water time, and food included.

You’ll probably love it if you’re:

• Traveling in a small group or as a couple and want a “half-day that feels like a full experience.”
• Visiting Tenerife south and want an activity that’s not just another beach day.
• Keen on seeing pilot whales and dolphins, but you still want a backup plan (the swim stop and lunch keep the day valuable).

You might think twice if you:

• Need wheelchair access. This activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
• Are expecting snorkel gear provided. You have to bring it.
• Prefer a very long outing. Even though it’s listed as 3 hours, some people mention it can feel closer to about 2.5 hours on the water, depending on the flow of the day.

Should You Book MAXICAT from Costa Adeje?

If you want a practical, good-value Costa Adeje whale and dolphin cruise with pickup options, lunch, drinks, and a real swim stop, I’d book it. The main reason is the balance: you’re paying for a guided wildlife search plus a set onboard experience that doesn’t rely on one perfect sighting.

But book with the right mindset. Whales and dolphins are never guaranteed, and this is still a short cruise. If you go expecting a floating wildlife classroom with snacks and sea time, you’ll have a great day. If you need a guaranteed whale encounter above all else, you’ll want to adjust your expectations.

FAQ

How long is the MAXICAT whale and dolphin cruise?

The activity duration is listed as 3 hours.

Where do I meet if I am not using hotel pickup?

Meet at Pantalan 9 in Puerto Colón. Look for the red catamaran with the inscription maxicat.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkel gear is not included, so you’ll need to bring your own if you want to snorkel.

What food and drinks are included?

You get lunch on board, including paella, plus unlimited drinks.

Does the tour offer hotel pickup in Costa Adeje?

Pickup is optional from selected locations in South Tenerife when that option is selected. Pickup in the Playa Paríso area is only on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

No. This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.

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