Pilot whales, then tapas on deck. This 3-hour catamaran cruise is built for seeing sea mammals in their own world while you relax on spacious decks with drinks (including beer) flowing and a buffet onboard to keep you happy between sightings. It also works well if you want a half-day plan instead of tying up your whole day.

What I like most is the simple, friendly rhythm: you leave from Puerto Colón, spend time looking for pilot whales and dolphins, then settle in with fruit, snacks, and tapas-style bites while you watch Tenerife’s coast slide by. I also like the way the crew handles the whole vibe, from spotting animals to keeping the boat comfortable and organized, with names like Laura, Daniela, Michel, Miguel, and Captain Andrea showing up in the best stories.

One thing to consider: the water can move, and some people feel seasick. Even with a stable catamaran, you should plan for motion, especially if you’re sensitive or if the sea is rough.

Key highlights worth knowing

• Max 24 people on board, so it feels more personal than big party boats.
• Puerto Colón departure with options for hotel transfer in several south Tenerife areas.
• Beer and drinks included, plus a buffet with items like cheese, quiche, bread, and crisps.
• Time for swimming, with equipment provided when you stop in the best spots.
• Crew-led spotting and explanations, with pilot whales and dolphins being the main stars.
• Sun and shade setup: prow sundeck, fly-bridge seating, and a sofa inside.

From Puerto Colón to pilot whales: how the 3-hour trip really plays

This is a half-day cruise in Tenerife, clocking in at about 3 hours on the water. The flow is straightforward: boarding in Costa Adeje, a sail out from Puerto Colón, searching for wildlife along the coast, then back again with plenty of time to enjoy the boat even if you’re not glued to the rail the whole time.

You’ll start with a welcome from the crew and head out from Puerto Colón, Pantalan 6. Once you’re underway, the main goal is spotting sea mammals—especially pilot whales and dolphins—in natural conditions, not in a tank or enclosure. When sightings happen, the boat’s set up so you can watch from both sun and shaded seating, which matters in Tenerife when the light and heat can change fast.

Between whale/dolphin moments, the boat stays active. This is when you eat, sip, and reposition for a better view. And when the crew calls it, you get a chance to go for a swim (and you’ll have gear available for snorkeling-style water time).

Where you board in Tenerife: Monte Cristo Catamaran and transfer options

Your departure point is Monte Cristo Catamaran (the meeting point is listed at 5-star Whale and Dolphin Tours, Boat Trips Tenerife, at Puerto Colón Pantalan 6). The cruise ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not dealing with a complicated end-of-tour transfer.

If you want pickup, it’s by request and limited to hotels in specific areas in the south: Golf del Sur, Los Cristianos, Las Américas, Adeje, Playa Paraíso, Callao Salvaje, and Alcalá. Pickup timing runs from about 20 minutes to 1 hour before sailing, and you’ll get the exact time after you request it.

If you’re outside that pickup zone, you can still make it easy by going on your own to Puerto Colón. It’s also described as near public transportation, which gives you an extra fallback option if you’re traveling without a car.

Getting comfortable on a catamaran: shade, space, and onboard basics

This catamaran is designed for views, with a roomy layout that helps you find your own spot. You get access to spacious sundecks, including seating up on the fly-bridge and a generous sun area near the prow. There’s also an inside sofa area, which is useful if the sun is strong or if you just want a break.

Practical items are covered too. There’s a restroom onboard, so you’re not stuck waiting for long gaps. And the setup supports different comfort needs—some people will hang topside for sightings, while others will float between shade and sun.

The group size matters here: the tour caps at 24 travelers, and some guests specifically mention feeling the boat wasn’t overcrowded. That usually means you can move around without constantly stepping around strangers, which makes it easier to get a clear line of sight when animals show up.

Also worth knowing: service animals are allowed, and while the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, the general layout is described as stable and made with passenger comfort in mind.

The buffet and included drinks: what $71.35 buys you

At $71.35 per person, what makes this feel like real value isn’t just that food exists—it’s that the cruise keeps you fueled and hydrated without turning your boat day into a restaurant bill.

The onboard offering is described as a buffet included in the price, paired with snacks and drinks. Food options listed include items like tortillas, cheese, quiche, bread, crisps, plus a meat selection. On top of that, you’re served fruit, snacks, and tapas-style bites during the sail.

For drinks, the included menu lists water, soft drinks, beer, and champagne. In plain terms: you’re not doing the usual “buy a drink every time you want one” routine. The best experiences I’m pointing you toward are the ones where you can watch whales and still feel like lunch is handled.

If you’re the kind of person who gets cranky when plans run slightly behind, this matters. The food and drinks keep the trip comfortable even on slower stretches when wildlife sightings aren’t instant.

Wildlife watching the smart way: what you’ll see and how to watch

The wildlife goal here is the real headline: see sea mammals in their natural habitat. The cruise focuses on whales and dolphins along Tenerife’s coast, and sea turtles are also mentioned as a possible sighting.

The recurring pattern in the best feedback is lots of pilot whales. People describe seeing whales close to the boat at times—enough that it feels like an encounter, not just a distant dot. You also get dolphins alongside the whales, which tends to keep the day lively even if the whales take their time.

The crew plays a big role, because they don’t just point and shrug. You’ll get explanations about what you’re seeing. Guides named in standout stories include Laura and other crew members like Daniela, with Captain Andrea credited for finding sea life and keeping the experience smooth and safe.

Quick advice so you get the best viewing without overthinking it:

• Keep an eye on the crew’s directions and where they’re looking.
• Be ready to rotate positions—watch from one side, then switch when the boat turns.
• Don’t chase movement into unsafe spots. The whole setup is about respecting animals and staying safe at the same time.

Also, the catamaran format helps. You’re not stuck on a tiny platform. You can spread out, which reduces the frantic feeling when a pod appears and everyone suddenly wants the same view.

The swim stop: how to plan for water time and seasickness

This cruise includes a swim stop, and snorkeling-style water time is supported because equipment is provided and the captain takes you to the best spots. In practice, that means you should pack like you’re going to change from sightseeing mode into water mode.

Bring a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your swimsuit. If you forget, you might still be okay, but you’ll definitely feel it when you’re trying to enjoy the water time without the basics. For some guests, the water also involves some wet spray, so plan for damp hair and a cool wind after.

If you’re prone to seasickness, take it seriously. The vessel is stable, but movement is still part of a boat cruise. The tour guidance specifically suggests herbal ginger tablets or Dramamine before boarding if you need help.

One more reality check: if the sea is rough, you can expect bumpy ride conditions. That’s not a “tour problem”—it’s ocean weather. The upside is that when conditions are good, this trip turns into a perfect mix of wildlife watching and actual relaxation.

Who this is best for (and who should pick a different day)

This works especially well for people who want a half-day activity that feels like a real experience, not a rushed stamp-collecting tour. The short duration is a gift in Tenerife: you can do this cruise and still have energy for dinner or a beach afternoon afterward.

It’s also a strong fit for:

• Families and couples who like the idea of a small group (max 24).
• People who want food handled for them (buffet + snacks + drinks).
• Anyone who enjoys being outside, moving between sun and shade on a boat.
• Birthday and special-occasion travelers, since onboard surprises show up in the stories (like birthday cake moments).

The main reason someone might not love it is motion sensitivity. Some guests report feeling unwell when the water was bumpy. If you know you get seasick, do your prep and consider timing your trip when conditions tend to be calmer.

Price and value: why this often feels like a bargain

The headline price—$71.35—starts looking more attractive when you itemize what’s included: buffet food, snacks/tapas, drinks with beer and champagne, and (for many people) hotel pickup in south Tenerife.

You’re paying for convenience and comfort, not just a ticket to go look at the horizon. The transfer option, when it’s available for your hotel area, reduces time and stress. And with the smaller group size, you generally get a better feel on board compared with mega-catamarans.

So I’d frame it this way: you’re buying a smooth, low-effort half day on the water. If you would normally spend money on boat ticket + snacks + drinks, this tends to land as good value, especially on a day when wildlife sightings happen often.

Should you book this whale watching catamaran with transfer and buffet?

I think you should book this cruise if you want a straightforward Tenerife nature outing with real onboard comfort and included food and drinks, plus a real shot at seeing pilot whales and dolphins in the wild. The combination of a small-group catamaran, an active crew, and time to swim makes it feel like more than a quick sightseeing stop.

Skip or rethink it if motion is your biggest issue. Do the seasickness prep, and be honest about how you handle boat days. Also double-check whether your hotel is in the pickup areas; if not, you’ll need to get yourself to Puerto Colón.

If you’re traveling in the south of Tenerife and you want a half-day plan that’s easy to fit into your schedule, this is the kind of tour that keeps things simple: get on the boat, watch the sea life, eat and drink, and enjoy the sun—then head back with a smile.

FAQ

Where does the whale watching catamaran cruise depart from?

The meeting point is Monte Cristo Catamaran, 5-star Whale and Dolphin Tours, Boat Trips Tenerife, at Puerto Colon Pantalan 6, 38680 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

How long is the cruise?

The trip lasts about 3 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is possible by request for hotels in Golf del Sur, Los Cristianos, Las Américas, Adeje, Playa Paraíso, Callao Salvaje, and Alcalá only.

When does pickup happen?

Pickup times vary between about 20 minutes and 1 hour before the sailing time, and the exact time is sent after you request it.

What kind of boat is used?

The tour is on a purpose-built catamaran designed for passenger comfort and views, and it complies with safety regulations.

Is there a restroom onboard?

Yes, there is a restroom onboard.

Is there food and drink included?

Yes. Food is included as part of the buffet, and drinks are included too, including water, soft drinks, beer, and champagne.

Can I go swimming during the cruise?

Yes. The captain takes you to the best spots, and snorkeling equipment is provided.

Is the catamaran wheelchair accessible?

No, the catamaran is not wheelchair accessible.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience starts, the amount paid is not refunded.

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