Half-Day Cruise Tour-Dolphin and Whale Watching

An Inviting Half-Day Cruise in Gran Canaria for Marine Life Encounters

The Half-Day Cruise Tour-Dolphin and Whale Watching offers a lively and family-friendly way to explore Gran Canaria’s waters, priced at $45.86 per person. This 3 to 5-hour experience departs from Puerto Rico, sailing offshore from the southwest coast of the island, between Puerto de Mogán and the Maspalomas Lighthouse. The tour is well-suited for those seeking an engaging marine adventure without a full-day commitment, with most bookings made 9 days in advance.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on dolphin and whale sightings, along with the opportunity for a refreshing swim and snorkeling near the coast. The boats used are comfortable catamarans, designed to offer a smooth ride with less rolling, making it suitable for a broad range of participants, including those prone to seasickness. The tour’s customer reviews highlight its value and success in spotting cetaceans, making it a popular choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking for a relaxed ocean outing.

Key Points

• Price: Around $45.86 per person, book 9 days in advance on average.
• Duration: 3 to 5 hours with most of the time spent sailing in search of dolphins and whales.
• Location: Sails from Puerto Rico, with stops near Cala del Perchel, Taurito, Tauro, or Anfi del Mar.
• Activities: Includes cetacean watching, snorkeling, swimming, and refreshments.
• Boat Type: Safe, comfortable catamarans that ensure a pleasant sailing experience.
• Customer Satisfaction: Consistently high ratings, often 5-star reviews for dolphin sightings and crew friendliness.

Starting Point: Puerto Rico’s Vibrant Marina

The cruise begins at Puerto Rico, a popular tourist hub on Gran Canaria. The Puerto Deportivo de Puerto Rico marina is the departure point, known for its modern facilities and scenic views. From here, the catamaran heads out into the Atlantic, with the goal of locating pods of dolphins and whales. The initial sailing takes about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on conditions, fueling anticipation for sightings. After this, the boat anchors for 30 to 45 minutes in an identified spot—Cala del Perchel, Taurito, Tauro, or Anfi del Mar—to allow passengers to swim and snorkel.

Comfortable Catamarans Designed for Smooth Sailing

The tour uses catamarans that are noted for their stability and less rolling movement, ensuring a smooth ride for all aboard. This feature is especially appreciated by those who are sensitive to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxing experience on the water. The boats are equipped with snorkeling gear—including masks and buoys—which are provided for guests to enjoy swimming in the clear waters near the coastline.

Navigating the Search for Dolphins and Whales

Most of the tour time is dedicated to searching for cetaceans, with the crew doing their utmost to locate pods of dolphins and whales. Multiple reviews praise the success rate, with sightings of different dolphin species and occasional whale encounters. The crew members are knowledgeable and friendly, often explaining details about the marine life and the coastline during the sail. Observation is typically best in the morning hours, as reflected in reviews, but sightings can vary based on weather and season.

Strategic Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling

The anchor stops allow for 30 to 45 minutes of swimming or snorkeling near key coastal spots. The included snorkeling equipment lets guests explore underwater life comfortably. While some reviews highlight the high quality of this break, noting that a swim in the ocean adds significant value to the overall experience, others mention that the duration of swimming might feel short for some. Still, most find the chance to see marine life up close to be a highlight.

Logistics and Meeting Arrangements

The meeting point is at Líneas Blue Bird, on C. Puerto Base in Mogán, making it accessible for most travelers. The activity includes pickup options and offers a mobile ticket for convenience. The maximum capacity is about 150 guests, which helps maintain the tour’s personalized feel. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with minimal physical demands.

Customer Experience and Review Highlights

The tour consistently receives positive feedback, with ratings of 4.2 out of 5 based on 93 reviews. Many mention the great crew, successful dolphin sightings, and the value for money. Notable comments include praise for the friendly staff, well-organized snorkel breaks, and the high likelihood of seeing multiple dolphin species. Some reviewers share their excitement over large pods of dolphins and even surprise encounters with hammerhead sharks, adding to the adventure.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention shorter swim breaks or less frequent sightings. Travelers prone to seasickness are advised that the boat can wobble, especially in choppier conditions, so bringing motion sickness remedies might be wise. The best time for dolphin sightings appears to be morning hours, and booking at least a week in advance ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds offered if canceled early. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered an alternative date or a full refund. This flexibility allows for planning peace of mind, knowing that weather-related cancellations are handled fairly.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour?

This half-day cruise appeals to those who want a relaxed, family-friendly outing that combines marine wildlife viewing with snorkeling. It’s ideal for beginners or families with kids who seek an engaging adventure without demanding physical activity or long hours at sea. The focus on dolphins and whales, combined with comfortable boats and friendly crew, makes it a reliable choice for a memorable ocean experience.

Final Thoughts on the Gran Canaria Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour

The Half-Day Cruise Tour offers solid value, especially for those eager to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment. The comfortable catamarans and friendly staff are consistently praised, while the opportunity for snorkeling and swimming adds a refreshing element to the trip. While sightings can vary, the tour’s track record of success and positive reviews support its reputation as a dependable marine excursion.

This tour suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a laid-back yet exciting half-day adventure on the water. If you enjoy oceanic wildlife, scenic coastal stops, and relaxed sailing, this cruise delivers a worthwhile experience at a reasonable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cruise last?
The activity lasts from 3 to 5 hours, with most time spent sailing and searching for marine life, plus a 30 to 45-minute stop for swimming and snorkeling.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Puerto Rico at Líneas Blue Bird, C. Puerto Base.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes cetacean watching, snorkeling gear, refreshments, and access to comfortable catamarans.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled earlier.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is suitable for most travelers, including families, with minimal physical demands. Service animals are allowed.

What are the chances of seeing dolphins?
Reviews highlight a high success rate, with many guests seeing multiple dolphin species and occasional whale sightings.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and buoys are included for guests to enjoy swimming near the coast.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, and dress comfortably for a boat trip. Motion sickness remedies are recommended if prone to seasickness.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled free of charge and rescheduled or refunded.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is led by Líneas Blue Bird, known for their friendly service and marine wildlife expertise.