Encounter resident pilot whales off the southwest coast of Tenerife
Cruise Europe's first certified Whale Heritage Site, where deep ocean trenches between Tenerife and La Gomera support a resident population of short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins year-round.
At a glance
Year-round (pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are permanent residents)
Morning sailings when seas are calmest
2 to 3 hours
Eco boat tour · Guided marine observation
Easy
Advance booking recommended
Why see whales in southwest Tenerife?
The Atlantic channel separating Tenerife from La Gomera plunges to depths of over 2,000 metres within a short distance of the coast. Nourished by oceanic upwellings, these waters provide a rich feeding ground of squid for over 500 resident short-finned pilot whales.
In 2021, the Teno-Rasca marine strip was designated Europe's first Whale Heritage Site by the World Cetacean Alliance. Responsible tours follow strict conservation protocols under the 'Barco Azul' certification, maintaining a 60-metre distance and limiting observation times.
What to expect
Setting sail into the channel
Depart from Puerto Colón or Los Gigantes on an authorized eco-boat or sailing catamaran, heading into the calm waters of the southwest lee.
Spotting the resident pod
Captains cut engines into neutral as pilot whales surface in small family groups, taking deep breaths and logging peacefully at the surface.
Coastal cruise by the cliffs
Sail past the sheer basalt precipices of Los Gigantes with a brief stop in a sheltered bay for a swim in clear turquoise water.
Plan your experience
When to go
Tours run 365 days a year with sightings on more than 90% of excursions. Morning departures generally experience calmer breezes and smoother sailing.
Getting there
Departures are based out of Puerto Colón marina in Costa Adeje or Puerto de Los Gigantes. Paid parking is available at both harbours.
Booking & permits
Strictly choose boats flying the official yellow 'Barco Azul' (Blue Boat) flag, indicating certified compliance with Canary Islands cetacean protection laws.
What to bring
- Polarized sunglasses to cut water glare and spot whales below the surface
- Reef-safe sun cream and sun hat
- Light windbreaker for open sea breezes
- Swimwear and towel for bay swim stop
Before you go
- Swimming with or feeding cetaceans is strictly prohibited by Spanish law.
- If susceptible to motion sickness, take mild preventative medication before boarding.
Official information
Always verify permits, seasonal weather conditions and access directly with public authorities:
Official island guide for sustainable cetacean tourism and Barco Azul certification
Official regulatory code of conduct and 60-metre conservation boundaries
Ways to experience it
Land-based spotting is possible with binoculars from clifftop miradors around Los Gigantes.
Join an authorized small-group eco-boat or sailing catamaran with a marine biologist guide.
Certified providers & operators
Whale Watch Tenerife
Certified small-group eco-sailings with marine biologist
Official Barco Azul certified operator based in Puerto Colón