Royal Delfin – 4’5H Dolphin & Whale Watching – Los Gigantes Masca – Lunch & Swim

Discover Tenerife’s Marine Life with the Royal Delfin Tour

The Royal Delfin – 4’5H Dolphin & Whale Watching tour offers an engaging way to experience Tenerife’s rich marine environment. For $69.39 per person, this 4.5-hour adventure departs from Puerto Colón, taking travelers along the southwest coast of Tenerife. The tour is perfect for those eager to see whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat, all while enjoying spectacular views of the Los Gigantes cliffs.

This tour features a purpose-built catamaran with underwater panoramic viewing windows, giving a closer look at marine life from below the surface. The experience combines whale and dolphin spotting, a swim stop in Masca Bay, and refreshing onboard lunch and drinks. While wildlife sightings can vary, the combination of scenic cruising and interactive stops makes this trip a lively and memorable outing.

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes of sea adventure, starting at 2:00 pm.
• Price: $69.39 per person includes food, drinks, and activity.
• Highlights: Whale and dolphin sightings, underwater glass viewing, swim in Masca Bay, and lunch onboard.
• Meeting point: Av. de Colón, 11, Playa de la Américas.
• Group size: Up to 200 travelers, ensuring a lively atmosphere but also opportunities for better interaction.
• Reviews: An overall rating of 4.0/5 with many praising the friendly crew, stunning scenery, and good value.

Starting Point and Departure Time from Playa de la Américas

The tour begins at Av. de Colón, 11, in Playa de la Américas at 2:00 pm. Travelers should arrive promptly to board the Royal Delfin, a sleek catamaran designed to maximize viewing pleasure and comfort. The meeting point’s close proximity to public transportation makes access straightforward. The activity ends back at the start location, making logistical planning simple.

The Purpose-Built Catamaran with Underwater Viewing Windows

The Royal Delfin is specifically designed for marine observation, featuring underwater glass viewing panels that allow passengers to see whales and dolphins swimming beneath the surface. This setup enhances the experience, providing more opportunities for viewing than standard boats. The spacious catamaran also offers restrooms, plenty of seating, and shaded areas for comfort during the cruise.

Whale and Dolphin Sightings Along Tenerife’s Southwest Coast

The southwest coast of Tenerife is renowned for its year-round whale and dolphin sightings. Humpback whales, pilot whales, and bottlenose dolphins are often spotted. The marine wildlife tends to behave unpredictably, which means sightings can vary from trip to trip. Nonetheless, reviews highlight frequent dolphin sightings, with some trips also encountering whales and even a turtle.

The best chance of sightings is during the cruise along Costa Adeje to Los Gigantes Cliffs. The nature of wildlife means there’s no guarantee, but the boat’s expert crew maximizes the chances by knowing where to go and when. Passengers also enjoy spectacular views of the cliffs and coastline during the cruise.

Swimming Stop in Masca Bay

One of the standout features of this tour is the stop for swimming in Masca Bay, located near the cliffs of Los Gigantes. The warm waters provide a perfect environment for a relaxing swim or snorkeling. The bay’s scenic surroundings and calm waters make it a favorite part of the trip, offering a refreshing break from the boat’s cruise.

On-Board Lunch and Refreshments

The lunch onboard is described as courtesy and tasty, served within the first hour of the trip. It includes small sandwiches and snacks, complemented by unlimited drinks such as beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, and water. Many reviews praise the quality of the food and friendly service, noting that the drinks keep flowing throughout the trip, contributing to a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

The Food and Drinks Experience

The lunch and drinks are among the trip’s highlights for many. The tasty sandwiches and snacks are served promptly, and the bottomless drinks include beer, sangria, soda, and water. The crew is appreciated for keeping the drinks topped up, helping to create a lively, social environment on the boat. However, not included are coffee, tea, and liquors beyond the offered beverages.

The Crew and Onboard Experience

The friendly and professional crew is frequently highlighted in reviews. They excel at explaining the itinerary, spotting marine life, and serving food and drinks. Some travelers mention video services and multilingual staff, which contributes to a smooth and enjoyable journey. The atmosphere onboard is often described as relaxed and fun, with many guests making new friends.

Considerations and Limitations

While the majority of trips deliver dolphins and whales sightings, some reviews point out less frequent wildlife encounters. For example, there are occasions where only a few sightings occur, and some guests feel the experience is less interactive when wildlife is scarce. Plus, sea conditions can sometimes be bumpy, especially in rough weather, which might affect comfort for some travelers.

The tour is also not suitable for those seeking a quiet, solitary experience due to the group size of up to 200 people. Those looking for more intimate or exclusive trips might prefer smaller options. The parking fees and additional costs for activities like coffee or extra liquors are not included in the package.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Travelers

The meeting point in Playa de la Américas is within easy reach of public transportation. Travelers are advised to arrive a little before the 2:00 pm departure. The boat is equipped with restrooms and shade, making the trip accessible for most. Water shoes are optional, but comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended. Keep in mind that sea conditions can vary, so bumpy rides may occur, especially during rough weather.

Comparing Value and Similar Experiences

At $69.39 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the included lunch, drinks, and marine wildlife encounters. The large group size might appeal to those wanting a lively atmosphere, while the underwater viewing deck adds a special touch compared to standard whale-watching trips. Similar experiences available include small-group catamaran tours, though the Royal Delfin’s combination of sightseeing, swimming, and onboard amenities makes it a balanced choice for most.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Tour?

This dolphin and whale watching outing is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun and relaxed day at sea with multiple activities. Those who appreciate spectacular coastline views, marine wildlife, and delicious onboard food and drinks will find this tour particularly satisfying. Keep in mind that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but the experience remains entertaining and scenic even without frequent animal encounters.

Final Thoughts on the Royal Delfin Experience

The Royal Delfin offers a well-organized, enjoyable way to explore Tenerife’s marine environment. The purpose-built catamaran with underwater views elevates the experience, and the swimming stop in Masca Bay provides a refreshing break. The lunch and drinks onboard are generous and tasty, helping create a friendly, social atmosphere.

While sightings of whales and dolphins are not guaranteed every trip, the overall experience—characterized by stunning scenery, good value, and friendly staff—remains worthwhile. This tour suits those seeking a fun, scenic cruise with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy Tenerife’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $69.39 ticket covers whale and dolphin watching, a swimming stop in Masca Bay, lunch onboard, soft drinks, beer, and sangria, and use of onboard facilities.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Av. de Colón, 11, Playa de la Américas at 2:00 pm.

How long does the trip last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Are marine wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings of dolphins, whales, or sea turtles depend on wildlife activity. While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed.

Can I swim in Masca Bay?
Yes, the stop in Masca Bay allows for swimming and snorkeling in calm, warm waters.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour is generally accessible for most travelers, but bumpy sea conditions may affect some. It’s best for families and those comfortable on boats.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, passengers are offered a different date or full refund.

Are there any extra costs not included?
Additional costs include parking fees and liquor beyond the provided drinks. Coffee and tea are not included.

How many people can join the trip?
The boat can accommodate up to 200 travelers, creating a lively atmosphere.

What makes this tour stand out?
The purpose-built catamaran with underwater viewing windows and swimming stop make it more interactive than typical whale-watching trips. The friendly crew and good food also add value.