Help

Top things to do in Arrecife

Lanzarote Whale Watching Tours

Lanzarote whale watching tours depart from Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen into the channel between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, where pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and loggerhead turtles are regularly sighted. Find catamaran tours, speedboat options, and sunset sailing formats here.
Loved by over 53 million guests worldwide
Slide 1 of 8, Dolphins swimming near a boat in Lanzarote.
Dolphins swimming near a boat in Lanzarote.

Speedboat Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise

1 hr 30 mins - 2 hrs 30 mins
1 more

  • Cruise along Lanzarote’s coast on the quick and zippy Biosfera Jet for a thrilling time out in the Atlantic over a compact 1.5-hour adventure.

  • Spot the region's native dolphin and whale species with an English, Spanish, and French-speaking guide's expertise.

  • Enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear and tropical waters of the Atlantic as you spot shoals of vibrant fish and other marine life swimming around you.

  • Upgrade to enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset cruise, with seamless round-trip transfers included. This ticket also gets you beverages, juice, or water, with local pastries.

More details

  • Cruise along Lanzarote’s coast on the quick and zippy Biosfera Jet for a thrilling time out in the Atlantic over a compact 1.5-hour adventure.

  • Spot the region's native dolphin and whale species with an English, Spanish, and French-speaking guide's expertise.

  • Enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear and tropical waters of the Atlantic as you spot shoals of vibrant fish and other marine life swimming around you.

  • Upgrade to enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset cruise, with seamless round-trip transfers included. This ticket also gets you beverages, juice, or water, with local pastries.

from
€35
Slide 1 of 12, Tourists on a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise, with a guide steering the boat.
Tourists on a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise, with a guide steering the boat.

Speedboat Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise with Sunset & Transfers

2 hrs 30 mins
2 more

  • Sail along the crystal clear waters off the coast of Lanzarote on a 2.5-hour dolphin watching cruise on a speedboat.

  • Spot the region's most magical species, including the Bottlenose Dolphin, Risso's Dolphins, and more, as you sip on a sparkling refreshment.

  • Seamless round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned bus directly from your hotel eliminate the need to reach the pier on your own.

  • You'll be accompanied by an English, Spanish, and French-speaking expert for fascinating commentary during the cruise.

  • Savor delectable local pastries on the boat. After all, your taste buds deserve a treat just as much as your eyes do.

More details

  • Sail along the crystal clear waters off the coast of Lanzarote on a 2.5-hour dolphin watching cruise on a speedboat.

  • Spot the region's most magical species, including the Bottlenose Dolphin, Risso's Dolphins, and more, as you sip on a sparkling refreshment.

  • Seamless round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned bus directly from your hotel eliminate the need to reach the pier on your own.

  • You'll be accompanied by an English, Spanish, and French-speaking expert for fascinating commentary during the cruise.

  • Savor delectable local pastries on the boat. After all, your taste buds deserve a treat just as much as your eyes do.

from
€52
Slide 1 of 10, Catamaran sailing at sunset in Lanzarote for dolphin watching.
Catamaran sailing at sunset in Lanzarote for dolphin watching.

Dolphin Watching Sunset Sailing Cruise

2 hrs
2 more

  • Sail along Lanzarote’s south coast on a catamaran during golden hour, spotting dolphins swimming in their natural habitat.

  • An expert speaking five languages will accompany you on the tour, telling you all about the region's unique species.

  • You'll be welcomed on board the catamaran with a welcome drink, along with another beverage and a snack during the cruise.

  • Seamless pickups from the nearest point to your hotel ensure you won't have to worry about the evening's logistics whatsoever.

More details

  • Sail along Lanzarote’s south coast on a catamaran during golden hour, spotting dolphins swimming in their natural habitat.

  • An expert speaking five languages will accompany you on the tour, telling you all about the region's unique species.

  • You'll be welcomed on board the catamaran with a welcome drink, along with another beverage and a snack during the cruise.

  • Seamless pickups from the nearest point to your hotel ensure you won't have to worry about the evening's logistics whatsoever.

from
€53
Slide 1 of 14, Tourist boat departing port for dolphin watching near rocky coastline.
Tourist boat departing port for dolphin watching near rocky coastline.

Lobos Island & Dolphin Watching Half-Day Trip

5 hrs
2 more

  • Cruise on a fast speedboat along Lanzarote’s scenic coastline as you head to the uninhabited reserve at Lobos Island.

  • Spot the region's dolphin and whale species on your cruise, with an experienced crew to offer key insights along the way.

  • Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time on Lobos Island to explore its natural lagoons or take a hike along its volcanic trails.

  • Savour a sumptuous picnic lunch on the cruise, which includes sandwiches, water, juices, and drinkable yogurt.

  • Seamless hotel transfers ensure you won't have to travel to a common meeting point or to the pier.

More details

  • Cruise on a fast speedboat along Lanzarote’s scenic coastline as you head to the uninhabited reserve at Lobos Island.

  • Spot the region's dolphin and whale species on your cruise, with an experienced crew to offer key insights along the way.

  • Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time on Lobos Island to explore its natural lagoons or take a hike along its volcanic trails.

  • Savour a sumptuous picnic lunch on the cruise, which includes sandwiches, water, juices, and drinkable yogurt.

  • Seamless hotel transfers ensure you won't have to travel to a common meeting point or to the pier.

from
€72

Similar things to do in Arrecife

Tour bus traversing volcanic landscape in Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote.
Timanfaya National Parkfrom €44

Browse by themes

Walking Tours in Arrecife
Guided Tours in Arrecife
Cruises in Arrecife
Whale Watching
Sightseeing Cruises in Arrecife
Dinner Cruises in Arrecife

Nearby cities to explore

See all
Things to do in Tenerife
Things to do in Tenerife
Spain

Whale watching in Lanzarote at a glance

  • Year-round tours; calmest seas and higher demand March through October
  • 1.5-hour express trips to 4-hour cruises; half-day with Lobos combo
  • Bottlenose and common dolphins, occasional pilot whales, volcanic coastline, seabirds
  • Electric catamarans, sailing catamarans, speedboats, small motorboats, private charters
  • Standard life jackets provided; guests bring layers, sun protection, optional light windbreaker
  • Skippers and marine guides provide live commentary, species facts, and basic safety briefings
  • Mainly Puerto del Carmen and Puerto Calero; some routes from Playa Blanca, Órzola
  • Coastal runs between Lanzarote and nearby islets; short offshore transits to dolphin-rich areas
  • Families, couples, wildlife enthusiasts, and small groups wanting flexible dolphin-focused boat trips

Which Lanzarote whale watching cruise is right for you?

Small group whale & dolphin watching cruise – 4-hour day

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Eco-minded travellers wanting maximum time with guides and hydrophone listening in a quiet setting
  • Anyone seeking a quick outing or a party-style atmosphere removed
  • Puerto Calero marina; hotel transfers may be available on select options
  • 100% electric small catamaran, mostly open deck with limited cabin space
  • About 4 hours total
  • South-coast Atlantic waters off Lanzarote, route adjusted to wildlife reports
  • Unhurried and calm; minimal engine vibration, some motion on open water
  • Life jackets, marine biologist guide, simple snacks and drinks, hydrophone use
  • Longest shared tour with the most educational, low-impact format

Small group whale & dolphin watching cruise – 2.5-hour sunset

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Couples and photographers who want golden-hour light plus focused wildlife searching
  • Travellers prioritising flat seas and daylight-only conditions removed
  • Puerto Calero marina; check confirmation for exact dock
  • Electric small catamaran with outdoor seating and basic shelter
  • Around 2.5 hours
  • Same wildlife zone as the day cruise, timed to finish at or just after sunset
  • Relaxed, slightly cooler and potentially choppier than daytime
  • Safety gear, specialist guide, soft drinks or similar refreshments, hydrophone
  • Combines sunset atmosphere with a small-group, eco-style whale experience

Lobos Island & dolphin watching half-day trip

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Families and explorers wanting dolphins plus island hiking, beach time, or snorkelling
  • Visitors who only want a short wildlife cruise without stepping ashore removed
  • Coach pickup from main resorts to the ferry point (often Órzola or Playa Blanca)
  • Standard sightseeing boat or ferry plus local excursion boat around Lobos
  • Roughly 5.5 hours including transfers and island stop
  • Lanzarote to Lobos Island, with cetacean search in the channel en route
  • Mixed; open-water sections can be bouncy, island section relaxed
  • Boat transport, guide, island free time, usually picnic-style lunch and snorkel gear
  • Adds a protected island visit to dolphin watching, creating a fuller half-day

Speedboat whale & dolphin watching – 1.5-hour mini day cruise

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Time-pressed or thrill-seeking guests who want a fast, high-energy ride and quick chance of sightings
  • Young children, pregnant travellers, or anyone prone to seasickness removed
  • Puerto del Carmen marina, often with optional hotel transfers
  • Rigid inflatable speedboat (RIB), fully open and low to the water
  • Around 1.5 hours
  • Rapid run from Puerto del Carmen along the south coast, out to known dolphin areas
  • Very fast and exposed; expect bumps and spray in moderate seas
  • Life jackets, skipper-guide, basic snorkel stop on some daytime departures
  • Shortest, most adrenaline-focused format with minimal impact on your day’s schedule

Dolphin watching sunset sailing cruise (large catamaran)

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Groups and couples seeking a social sunset sail with drinks, snacks, and a reasonable chance of dolphins
  • Travellers wanting an intimate small-group or research-style outing removed
  • Puerto del Carmen or similar resort harbour, usually with round-trip transfers
  • Large sailing catamaran with bar, music system, and spacious decks
  • About 2.5 hours
  • Coastal loop along Lanzarote’s south shore, detouring when dolphins are spotted
  • Easygoing, stable platform; more people on board and light music
  • Safety equipment, guide commentary, welcome drink, light snacks; paid bar often available
  • Best balance of price, comfort, and sunset ambiance for social travellers and families

Whale sightings & season in Lanzarote

Lanzarote’s whale and dolphin watching runs year-round thanks to resident species, but conditions are generally most favourable from March to October, when seas are calmer and boats can cover more ground. Summer (June to September) is the busiest period with many departures and stable weather; spring and early autumn are slightly quieter but still active. Winter trips do operate and can deliver good encounters, though Atlantic swells and wind make sailings more weather-dependent.

Bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales are the most regularly encountered species. Common dolphins and Atlantic spotted dolphins are also seen, while larger whales such as Bryde’s, fin, or humpback whales are occasional visitors and should be considered a rare bonus. Some operators may offer rebooking if no whales are seen — check the no-sighting policy on your product. Sightings are wild and never guaranteed; in-season odds are stronger but every departure depends on weather and the pods’ movement.

Responsible whale watching: A must-do

Lanzarote’s licensed “Blue Boat” operators follow Canary Islands cetacean-watching guidelines to reduce disturbance and protect natural behaviors.
Boats use a slow, minimal-wake approach when entering an area where dolphins or whales are present.
Skippers maintain a respectful distance from pods and avoid blocking their direction of travel.
A strict no pursuit policy applies if animals dive, change course, or move away.
Only a limited number of boats may stay near the same pod at one time.

What a whale watching day looks like in Lanzarote

Arrive and board at the marina

You arrive at the designated marina 20–30 minutes before departure, check in with the crew, and step aboard your speedboat or catamaran. After a brief safety talk, you choose a spot on deck or in the cabin as lines are cast off.

Is Lanzarote whale watching right for you?

  • Overall reality: Lanzarote whale and dolphin tours are open‑water Atlantic trips with sun, wind, and occasional swell. Wildlife is wild, so sightings are never guaranteed.
  • Choose it if: You’re comfortable spending 1.5–4 hours at sea, can stand on deck for better views, and see the boat ride and coastline as part of the experience.
  • Think twice if: You have strong motion sensitivity, very young children, or expect a guaranteed close‑up encounter in a short time slot.
  • Seasickness: Swell can be noticeable, especially on speedboats. Take motion medication 1–2 hours before departure, avoid heavy meals, and stay in the center of the boat.

What you'll see on the water

Bottlenose Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins often approach moving boats, riding the bow wave or surfing in the wake. Groups may surface in quick succession. Fun fact: Bottlenose dolphins can recognize individual whistles from companions even after years apart.

Your whale watching tour boarding points in Lanzarote

Puerto Calero Marina

Puerto Calero Marina, Edif. Antiguo Varadero, 35571 Puerto Calero, Yaiza, Las Palmas, Spain. Departure time: Morning and midday departures are common. When to arrive: 20–30 minutes before departure. Nearest landmark: Hotel Costa Calero Thalasso & Spa.

Puerto del Carmen Old Town Harbour

Puerto del Carmen Harbour, Varadero S/N, 35510 Tías, Las Palmas, Spain. Departure time: Mid-morning through late afternoon. When to arrive: 25–30 minutes before scheduled time. Nearest landmark: Near the old town restaurant strip and Mirador del Puerto.

Marina Rubicón, Playa Blanca

Marina Rubicón, Calle el Berrugo 2, Urb. Castillo del Águila, 35580 Playa Blanca, Yaiza, Las Palmas, Spain. Departure time: Late-morning and afternoon. When to arrive: 20–30 minutes early. Nearest landmark: Marina Rubicón shopping and dining area with a lighthouse-style tower.

Plan your visit in Lanzarote

Timings & Duration

  • Operating season: Year-round with calmer seas from March to October.
  • Daily departures: Morning, midday, and late-afternoon/sunset.
  • Time on water: Approximately 2–3 hours, with some tours up to 4 hours.
  • Half-day planning: Allow extra time for check-in and transfers.

Photography on Lanzarote whale watching tours

Photography on Lanzarote whale watching tours means planning for bright sun, sea movement, and unpredictable distances to wildlife (sightings are never guaranteed).

  • Light window vs season: Expect strong daylight for most departures; summer sunsets remain bright until after 20:00, while winter cruises shift to softer light after ~18:00.
  • Lens / focal length guidance: A 70–300mm zoom is practical; 100–400mm offers more reach for distant subjects.
  • Fast shutter / burst: Start around 1/1000s; ISO 200–400 in full sun, rising around sunset.
  • Flash-off ethics: Flash is kept off to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Battery care: Bring a spare battery and protect gear from salt spray.
  • Phone vs camera: Dedicated cameras typically yield stronger results than phones for distant subjects.

Frequently asked questions about whale watching tours in Lanzarote

  • Most standard trips run 2–3 hours on the water. Express speedboat departures can be around 1.5 hours, while combo itineraries that include Isla de Lobos or beach time typically last 4–6 hours door to door.