How long do Gran Canaria whale and dolphin watching tours last?

Most standard cruises last about 2–3 hours at sea. Small-group and sunset trips typically run 2.5–3 hours, while tours with swimming or snorkeling can extend to around 4 hours. Always confirm the duration on your tour.

What’s included in my ticket?

Inclusions vary by operator but typically cover the boat trip, lifejackets, crew commentary, and basic insurance. Some tours include soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, or snacks. Private and small-group options may offer additional extras.

What happens if we don’t see any dolphins or whales?

Sightings are never guaranteed as the animals are wild. Some operators may offer rebooking or a discount for a repeat trip if no sightings occur, but conditions and policies vary. Always review the no‑sighting policy before booking.

Can tours be cancelled because of bad weather or rough seas?

Yes, departures may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather or sea conditions are unsafe. In such cases, you are usually offered a new date or a refund according to the operator’s policy. Check your tour’s weather cancellation terms for details.

Are these tours suitable for children, and is there a minimum age?

Most tours welcome children and provide appropriately sized lifejackets. Some small-group or sunset tours may set a minimum age, so it’s important to check the specific requirements on your chosen tour.

I get seasick easily — should I still book?

The Atlantic can be choppy even on sunny days, so seasickness is possible. If you are prone, choose a morning cruise on a larger, more stable boat and consider taking motion‑sickness medication before departure.

Is hotel pickup included, or do I need to get to the port myself?

Some tours include or offer hotel transfers from major south‑coast resorts, while others require you to get to the marina on your own. Confirm the pickup details on your ticket before booking.

Are tickets refundable if I change my plans?

Refund rules vary by operator. Many tours offer free cancellation up to a set deadline, while others have stricter policies. Always read the cancellation terms on your specific tour before booking.

Are the boats accessible for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility?

Boarding often involves ramps or gangways and at least one step onto the boat, and accessibility can vary. If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to contact the operator before booking to ensure adequate arrangements are available.

What should I wear and bring on a Gran Canaria whale watching tour?

Wear comfortable, non‑slip shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a light windproof layer as it may feel cooler at sea. Also bring water, any motion‑sickness remedies, swimwear and a towel if swimming or snorkeling is part of the tour, plus a secure case for your electronics.

Top things to do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria Whale Watching Tours

Gran Canaria whale watching tours depart from Puerto Rico and Puerto de Mogán into waters where resident pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and seasonal sperm whales are regularly sighted. Find catamaran tours, speedboat options, and sunset sailing formats here.

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Slide 1 of 8, Tourists on a Gran Canaria cruise boat watching dolphins in the ocean.

Gran Canaria: Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise with Glass Bottom & Snorkeling

3 hrs 30 mins

1 more

Board a catamaran at Puerto Base and sail into Gran Canaria's Atlantic waters, where dolphins, pilot whales, and minke whales are regularly spotted year-round.
When cetaceans appear, head below deck to watch them move through the glass hull panels, no wetsuit, no waves, just an uninterrupted underwater view from inside the boat.
A live guide in English and Spanish narrates throughout, pointing out species, explaining behaviours, and sharing what makes Gran Canaria's southwest coast one of the most active cetacean corridors in Europe.
Once the main wildlife stretch is done, the catamaran anchors near Taurito for a swim and snorkel stop, snorkel masks are provided, and a toboggan slide on board means there's something to enjoy even if you skip the water.
Soft drinks and water are served during the stop, and hotel pickup from across the south is available, so you can get on and off the water without sorting your own transfers.

More details

Board a catamaran at Puerto Base and sail into Gran Canaria's Atlantic waters, where dolphins, pilot whales, and minke whales are regularly spotted year-round.
When cetaceans appear, head below deck to watch them move through the glass hull panels, no wetsuit, no waves, just an uninterrupted underwater view from inside the boat.
A live guide in English and Spanish narrates throughout, pointing out species, explaining behaviours, and sharing what makes Gran Canaria's southwest coast one of the most active cetacean corridors in Europe.
Once the main wildlife stretch is done, the catamaran anchors near Taurito for a swim and snorkel stop, snorkel masks are provided, and a toboggan slide on board means there's something to enjoy even if you skip the water.
Soft drinks and water are served during the stop, and hotel pickup from across the south is available, so you can get on and off the water without sorting your own transfers.

from

€37

Slide 1 of 8, Tourists on boat watching dolphins during Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise.

Gran Canaria: Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise with Glass Bottom Viewing

2 hrs 30 mins

Cruise Gran Canaria's southwest Atlantic waters for 2.5 hours from Puerto Rico, scanning one of Europe's most biodiverse cetacean corridors, home to up to 30 species including bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, and pilot whales.
When cetaceans appear alongside the boat, step into the hull's underwater viewing galleries, purpose-built windows at water level that put you face-to-face with dolphins and whales from inside the catamaran, with no spray, no crowds at the rail, and nothing between you and the ocean.
A multilingual crew narrates throughout in English, Spanish, German, and French, identifying species, explaining behaviours, and sharing the kind of detail that turns a boat trip into something you actually remember.
The catamaran was designed from the ground up for cetacean observation, not converted, not adapted, which means sightlines, deck space, and the gallery windows are all built around giving passengers the best possible view of marine life.

More details

Cruise Gran Canaria's southwest Atlantic waters for 2.5 hours from Puerto Rico, scanning one of Europe's most biodiverse cetacean corridors, home to up to 30 species including bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, and pilot whales.
When cetaceans appear alongside the boat, step into the hull's underwater viewing galleries, purpose-built windows at water level that put you face-to-face with dolphins and whales from inside the catamaran, with no spray, no crowds at the rail, and nothing between you and the ocean.
A multilingual crew narrates throughout in English, Spanish, German, and French, identifying species, explaining behaviours, and sharing the kind of detail that turns a boat trip into something you actually remember.
The catamaran was designed from the ground up for cetacean observation, not converted, not adapted, which means sightlines, deck space, and the gallery windows are all built around giving passengers the best possible view of marine life.

from

€40

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Whale watching in Gran Canaria at a glance

Year-round dolphin watching; whales occasional, especially during migrations past Gran Canaria
2.5–3 hours for standard cruises; up to 4 hours with snorkeling
Common and bottlenose dolphins; occasional pilot whales, turtles, flying fish
Glass-bottom catamarans, small-group boats, and private yachts with open decks
No special suits; regular swimwear and light layers recommended for wind
Licensed crew providing multilingual commentary; some small-group cruises with marine biologist
Mainly Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria; also select departures from Puerto de Mogán
South-coast marinas to nearby deep Atlantic waters, then slow searching loops around pods
Beach holidaymakers wanting a short ocean wildlife cruise with high dolphin-spotting chances

Which Gran Canaria whale watching cruise is right for you?

Standard glass-bottom cruise (no swim)

Dedicated whale tour
First-time visitors and families wanting a shorter, lower-cost dolphin/whale search
Travellers craving extra activities or lots of personal space removed
Puerto Rico harbour area (Gran Canaria); self pickup
Large glass-bottom sightseeing boat with mixed sun/shade and basic facilities
Around 2–2.5 hours at sea
South-coast marinas then back along the coastline
Steady, moderately paced; larger hull but busy in high season
Wildlife search, commentary, glass-bottom viewing, basic safety gear; drinks extra
Core dolphin experience at lowest price

Glass-bottom cruise with snorkelling stop

Dedicated whale tour
For visitors wanting dolphin spotting plus a relaxed swim/snorkel break
Not for those prone to seasickness or with toddlers
Puerto Rico harbour (Gran Canaria) with marina check-in
Large catamaran or glass-bottom boat with deck, bar, and ladder access
About 3.5–4 hours combining wildlife search and a coastal stop
Offshore dolphin zone first then sheltered bay for swimming
Unhurried half-day; open-sea section can be rough
Includes dolphin/whale search, snorkel/swim stop, basic gear, lifejackets; food/drinks extra

Small-group dolphin & whale cruise (daytime)

Dedicated whale tour
Best for couples, photographers, and wildlife-focused guests valuing space and quiet
Not for very budget-conscious travellers
South-coast marina (typically Puerto Rico); meet at small-boat pontoon
Low-capacity motor or hybrid boat (10–12 guests) with open deck
Around 3 hours focused on search and observation
Flexible route into offshore dolphin areas with real-time adjustments
More nimble but bumpier than big catamarans
Includes skipper/guide, safety gear, and often soft drinks or light snacks

Small-group sunset dolphin & whale cruise

Dedicated whale tour
For travellers wanting a scenic evening with potential dolphin encounters
Not for families with very young children
South-coast marina (often Puerto Rico); meet shortly before late-afternoon sailing
Small-group boat with open deck seating
About 2.5 hours spanning late afternoon into sunset
Offshore search then gradual return as sun sets
Calm and unhurried; evenings can be breezy
Includes guided search, safety equipment, and usually one drink or simple refreshments

Private dolphin & whale cruise (day or sunset)

Dedicated whale tour
Best for families or groups wanting privacy and flexible timing
Not for solo travellers or couples looking for the cheapest option
Agreed south-coast marina (commonly Puerto Rico) with direct charter check-in
Small yacht or motor boat exclusively for your group
2.5–3 hours, scheduled as daytime or sunset
Customisable route within local dolphin grounds and coastal bays
Very relaxed with stops tailored to group comfort
Includes exclusive boat and crew, safety gear, and usually drinks/light snacks

Whale sightings & season in Gran Canaria

Best time to go: Gran Canaria’s dolphin and whale watching runs year-round, thanks to resident populations and mild weather. Mornings generally offer calmer seas compared to the stronger swells of winter afternoons. What you’re likely to see: Dolphins are the main stars, with common and bottlenose varieties frequent, while pilot whales and larger migratory species are occasional bonus sightings.

Responsible whale watching: A must-do

Whale watching off Gran Canaria follows Canary Islands cetacean-watching guidelines, emphasizing minimal disturbance to the animals.
Boats slow down well before reaching the animals and maintain a respectful distance.
A no pursuit policy is strictly observed, and only a limited number of boats approach a pod at any time.

What a whale watching day looks like in Gran Canaria

Passengers boarding at a marina with crew guidance

Boarding at the marina

You arrive at Puerto Rico or Puerto de Mogán marina 20–30 minutes before departure, check in with your voucher, and join the boarding queue. Once called, you step aboard, find a seat or rail spot, and listen to the safety briefing.

Is Gran Canaria whale watching right for you?

Core reality: Gran Canaria whale watching is an open-Atlantic boat trip with strong sun, wind, and occasional swells, and sightings are not guaranteed.
Choose it if you’re comfortable spending 2.5–4 hours at sea and can manage movement on a rocking deck.
Think twice if you suffer from serious motion sickness, balance issues, or if young children may struggle with the conditions.
Seasickness: Atlantic swells often make people ill; consider taking motion tablets before departure.

What you'll see on the water in Gran Canaria

Common Dolphins

Common dolphins travel in energetic pods and may approach the bow to surf the pressure wave. They surface frequently and change direction quickly. Fun fact: They sometimes form superpods numbering hundreds.

Your whale watching tour boarding points in Gran Canaria

Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria – Puerto Base marina

Most tours depart from Puerto Base, the main marina in Puerto Rico. Address: Puerto Base, 35130 Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain | View on Google Maps. Departure: Morning and early afternoon slots; arrive 20–30 minutes early. Nearest landmark: Puerto Rico beach and bus station.

How to get there?

On foot: 5–15 minutes downhill from most hotels; follow signs to Puerto Base.
By bus: Routes from Maspalomas/Playa del Inglés, then a ~5 minute walk.
By taxi/car: Ask for 'Puerto Base, Puerto Rico' with drop-off at the marina entrance.

Plan your visit in Gran Canaria

Timings & Duration

Operating pattern: Runs year-round with more departures in winter and summer.
Daily departures: Most tours leave in the morning and early afternoon.
Tour length: Standard cruises last about 2–3 hours; extended trips around 3.5–4 hours.
Door-to-door time: Approximately 3–4 hours total.

Photography on Gran Canaria whale watching tours

Photography on these Atlantic cruises is rewarding but technically demanding. Strong sunlight, moving subjects, and variable light conditions require a fast shutter speed and continuous autofocus. Use a zoom lens (around 70–300mm) and avoid flash to prevent disturbing the wildlife.

Frequently asked questions about whale watching tours in Gran Canaria

Most standard cruises last about 2–3 hours at sea. Small-group and sunset trips typically run 2.5–3 hours, while tours with swimming or snorkeling can extend to around 4 hours. Always confirm the duration on your tour.