Curiosities and Excursions to Spot Them

Tenerife, located in the Canary Islands archipelago, is famous not only for its golden beaches and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, but also for its waters, which offer one of the most exciting experiences for nature lovers: whale watching. In this article, we will explore the curiosities about these magnificent cetaceans that inhabit the waters of Tenerife and how to have an unforgettable whale watching experience thanks to boat trips.

Whales in Tenerife: What You Need to Know

The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera, especially along the southwest coast of the island, are the ideal habitat for many species of cetaceans, including whales. These marine mammals choose this area for the mild water temperatures and the rich availability of food, making it one of the best destinations in Europe for whale watching.

Here are some curiosities that might surprise you:

  1. Resident and Migratory Species: Among the most common whale species seen in Tenerife are the Bryde's whale, a resident species in the local waters. In addition to this, you can find migratory species such as humpback whales and occasionally killer whales.
  2. Bryde's Whales: This species, which can reach up to 16 meters in length, is one of the most frequently seen during excursions. Despite its majesty, it is very agile and is often seen hunting small fish on the surface.
  3. Pilot Whales: Although often called “whales,” pilot whales are actually members of the dolphin family. These cetaceans, which can weigh up to 3 tons, are extremely sociable and curious, making them particularly exciting to watch.
  4. Sustainability and Conservation: Thanks to the protection of the marine area of Tenerife, whale watching is conducted with respect for the environment, ensuring the sustainability of the species and minimizing the impact on tourism. Many of the companies that organize excursions follow strict guidelines to protect cetaceans and their habitat.

Whale Watching Trips in Tenerife

If you want to live an unforgettable experience, Tenerife offers several options for boat trips that will allow you to see whales up close in their natural habitat. The trips are organized along the southwest coast of the island, in places such as Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje and Puerto Colón.

Here are some of the best excursions available:

  1. Catamaran Excursion of 3 Hours: This is one of the most popular whale and dolphin watching excursions. Departing from the port of Puerto Colón, the catamaran will take you off the southwest coast, where you can spot pilot whales and other cetacean species. During the excursion, there are also stops to swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters.
  2. Sailing Boat Excursion of 4.5 Hours: If you want a more intimate and quiet experience, the sailing excursion is perfect. Sailing towards the coast of Los Gigantes, you will have the opportunity to see whales and dolphins in a relaxed atmosphere. This excursion allows you to get close to nature, taking advantage of the silence of sailing to minimize the impact on the environment.
  3. Private Yacht Excursion: For those who want a personalized experience, there are also private yacht excursions. These tours offer high-level comfort, with a maximum of a few people on board, perfect for couples or families. You may spot pilot whales and, if you are lucky, a few fin whales.

Best Time for Sighting

The good news is that whale watching in Tenerife is possible all year round, thanks to the presence of resident species such as pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins. However, the spring and summer months are considered the best for excursions, thanks to favorable weather conditions and greater visibility.

Conclusion

Whale watching in Tenerife is a unique experience that will allow you to connect with nature in a sustainable and respectful way. Whether you choose a catamaran or sailing excursion, you will have the opportunity to experience unforgettable emotions and see some of the most fascinating marine mammals in the world up close. Plan your excursion and discover the magic of whales in Tenerife!

If you are interested in seeing whales click the blue links to book the excursion, while for other similar adventures the link below:

TENERIFE EXCURSIONS