Off the warm southern coast of Gran Canaria, marine life thrives year-round, making it one of Europe’s most reliable whale-watching destinations. Boat excursions leave regularly from Puerto Rico and Port of Mogán, with most trips lasting about 3 hours. I’m especially fond of the morning tours, when seas are typically calmer and visibility is best. The modern catamarans with viewing decks and professional guides make spotting dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles a comfortable adventure. My favorite operators include hotel pickup and refreshments, which is handy for travelers without rental cars. Let’s explore the best whale-watching tours this Canarian paradise has to offer.
Key Points
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The Dolphin and Whale Safari offers a 3-hour boat tour with a 97% success rate in spotting dolphins, whales, turtles, and flying fish.
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The Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise in Puerto Rico provides a 2.5-hour experience on a 52-foot catamaran with a multilingual marine guide.
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The 2-Hour Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience in Puerto Rico can accommodate up to 150 travelers and guarantees a second trip if no marine mammals are spotted.
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The Puerto Rico De Gran Canaria Cruise offers a 4.2/5 rated 3-hour tour with a guarantee of a second trip if no marine mammals are seen.
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The Port of Mogán Tour features a 3-hour small-group experience (up to 10 participants) on a modern yacht with various dolphin and whale species, as well as sea turtles.
Dolphin and Whale Safari in Gran Canaria
Situated off the southern coast of Gran Canaria, the Dolphin and Whale Safari offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness the island’s diverse marine life.
This 3-hour boat tour boasts an impressive 4.2-star rating from 348 reviews, with guests frequently praising the friendly crew and the chance to spot dolphins, blue whales, turtles, and flying fish.
Travelers can conveniently book the popular cruise online and take advantage of the free pickup service from select areas.
Onboard, guests enjoy complimentary soft drinks and water, and the boat is accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and service animals.
While sightings can vary, the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility ensures a respectful experience for both guests and wildlife.
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Gran Canaria: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise
The dolphin and whale watching cruise in Gran Canaria offers travelers a chance to witness the island’s diverse marine life.
This 2.5-hour experience departs from Puerto Rico, sailing the southwest coast with a 97% success rate in spotting dolphins and whales. Guests board a 52-foot, 20-foot wide catamaran with two decks, where they can enjoy soft drinks, water, and snacks while a multilingual marine guide provides information on the wildlife.
Pick-up services are available from the south of Gran Canaria, and the cruise is accessible for those with pushchairs.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5 from 394 reviews, this cruise provides a memorable way to explore the waters of Gran Canaria.
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2-Hour Dolphin and Whale Watching in Gran Canaria
Departing from Puerto Rico, the 2-Hour Dolphin and Whale Watching in Gran Canaria offers a chance to explore the island’s diverse marine life.
Aboard the Lineas Salmon boat, up to 150 travelers can spot dolphins, whales, flying fish, and sea turtles. The knowledgeable staff provide guidance, and photos taken during the trip are available for purchase.
While sightings can vary, many travelers report seeing notable pods of dolphins and whales. However, some have experienced overcrowding and limited visibility.
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Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise From Puerto Rico De Gran Canaria
The Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria offers travelers an opportunity to explore the island’s diverse marine life.
The 4.2/5 rated tour departs from the Puerto Rico Harbor, providing a comfortable boat experience with underwater viewing, drinks, and snacks. Priced from $42.92 per person, the cruise guarantees a second trip if no marine mammals are spotted.
While some travelers report disappointments with limited sightings, the majority praise the friendly crew and successful dolphin, pilot whale, and turtle encounters.
Wheelchair accessibility is limited, but the tour is near public transportation. Guests are advised to bring motion sickness medication and expect a memorable marine adventure.
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Port of Mogán: 3-Hour Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour
Situated in the picturesque Port of Mogán, this 3-hour Dolphin & Whale Watching tour provides a captivating opportunity to explore Gran Canaria’s Southwest Coast and encounter the island’s diverse marine life.
Priced from €75.00 per person, the small-group experience is limited to 10 participants and features live tour guides in both Spanish and English.
Depending on the season, guests may spot various dolphin species as well as whales and sea turtles.
The tour is aboard the modern KEEPER UNO yacht, offering both comfort and unforgettable navigation.
Included are drinks and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, though the activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.
Read our full review: Port of Mogán: 3-Hour Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour Review
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Half-Day Cruise Tour-Dolphin and Whale Watching
Embarking on a half-day cruise to witness Gran Canaria’s captivating marine life, this Dolphin and Whale Watching tour provides an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.
With a maximum capacity of 150 travelers, the tour allows guests to spot multiple dolphin species and potentially spot whales.
The 3-hour excursion includes onboard facilities such as restrooms and snorkeling equipment, as well as complimentary soft drinks and water during a bathroom stop.
While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, previous customers have praised the crew’s professionalism and the opportunity to swim and snorkel.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour offers a flexible and budget-friendly way to explore Gran Canaria’s diverse marine ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot Whales?
The best time of year to spot whales is during the winter months, when they migrate to warmer waters. Whale watching is typically most successful between December and April, when sightings are more common.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Yes, most whale watching tour operators allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option for the trip.
Are the Whale Watching Tours Suitable for Children?
The whale watching tours are generally suitable for children, as they offer an exciting and educational experience. Most tours welcome families and provide activities or educational materials to engage younger participants.
Do the Tours Provide Warm Clothing for Cold Weather?
Most whale watching tours provide warm clothing, such as jackets and blankets, to ensure passengers stay comfortable during the excursion, especially in colder weather conditions. This helps make the experience accessible for people of all ages, including children.
How Accessible Are the Boarding Locations for the Tours?
The boarding locations for the tours are generally accessible, with ramps or easy steps for embarking. Many companies provide assistance to passengers who need help getting on board. The accessibility levels vary, but most are accommodating to all guests.
Recap
Gran Canaria offers a range of captivating whale and dolphin watching experiences for visitors. From safari-style cruises to multi-hour tours, there are plenty of options to spot these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat. Tourists can choose a tour that suits their interests and budget, ensuring an unforgettable encounter with the island’s diverse marine life.