Gran Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Gran Canaria’s maritime history stretches back to the Guanche people, who fished its rich Atlantic waters before Spanish conquest in the 15th century. The port of Puerto Rico, now a bustling hub for tourism, evolved from a small fishing village in the 19th century into a modern marina by the 1970s, driven by the island’s tourism boom. Dolphin and whale watching tours emerged in the 1990s as Gran Canaria embraced eco-tourism, leveraging the Canary Islands’ position in cetacean migration routes, where up to 29 species, including bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales, frequent the warm waters.
Operators like those at Puerto Base harbor introduced modern catamarans with glass-bottomed viewing in the 2000s, enhancing wildlife tours with sustainable practices to protect the island’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, granted in 2005. These cruises, blending snorkeling and scenic sailing, reflect Gran Canaria’s shift from fishing to eco-conscious tourism, showcasing its volcanic coastlines and marine biodiversity while preserving the legacy of its seafaring past.
Highlights
- Feel the ocean breeze on a catamaran cruise from Puerto Base harbor
- Search for dolphins, pilot whales, and minke whales in their natural habitat
- Observe marine life through large glass panels below deck
- Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or the onboard toboggan slide in a scenic bay
- Sip complimentary soft drinks or water while taking in panoramic coastal views
Full Description
Embark on a 3.5-4-hour adventure from Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria aboard a modern catamaran, designed for comfort with spacious decks and glass-bottomed panels for underwater viewing. Begin with optional hotel pickup from one of 35 locations across southern Gran Canaria, including Maspalomas, Taurito, or San Agustín, followed by a 1-hour bus ride to Puerto Base harbor. Alternatively, meet directly at the harbor for a budget-friendly option. After boarding, set sail into the Atlantic, scanning for bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, minke whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
The 2-hour sailing portion cruises along Gran Canaria’s volcanic coastline, offering stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and resorts like Playa del Cura. Watch for cetaceans from the deck or through underwater glass panels, which reveal fish, turtles, or dolphins without getting wet. The crew provides insights into local marine life, following eco-friendly protocols to minimize disturbance. Anchor in a sheltered bay near Taurito for a 30-45-minute stop, where you can snorkel with provided masks, swim, or zip down the onboard toboggan slide. Prefer to stay dry? Relax with complimentary soft drinks or water while enjoying the scenery.
The tour concludes with a 30-minute return sail to Puerto Base, followed by a bus drop-off at your hotel or original pickup point. If wildlife spotting extends, the swim stop may shorten to prioritize sightings, ensuring a balance of adventure and relaxation. This eco-conscious cruise offers a magical glimpse into Gran Canaria’s marine world, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking nature and fun.
Why Choose This Experience?
This catamaran cruise stands out for its blend of wildlife adventure, eco-friendly practices, and family-friendly activities, all set against Gran Canaria’s dramatic coastline. The glass-bottomed panels offer a unique, dry way to observe marine life, complementing the high likelihood of spotting dolphins or whales in the island’s cetacean-rich waters. Snorkeling, swimming, and the toboggan slide add playful variety, while complimentary drinks and extensive pickup options (35 locations) enhance convenience and value.
Unlike crowded tours, the modern catamaran ensures comfort, with ample space for relaxation or exploration. The crew’s commitment to sustainability, aligned with Gran Canaria’s Biosphere Reserve status, ensures minimal environmental impact, making it a responsible choice. Affordable and versatile, this 3.5-4-hour trip delivers a memorable mix of nature, adventure, and coastal beauty, ideal for those wanting a hassle-free, immersive Canary Islands experience.
What’s Included
- 3.5-4-hour catamaran cruise from Puerto Base harbor
- 2-hour dolphin and whale watching with glass-bottomed viewing
- 30-45-minute snorkeling and swimming stop in Taurito bay
- Use of snorkel masks and onboard toboggan slide
- Complimentary soft drinks and water during the swim stop
- Optional bus pickup and drop-off from 35 locations in southern Gran Canaria
- Eco-friendly navigation with crew commentary on marine life
- Life jackets and safety equipment
Itinerary
- Pickup from one of 35 designated points or meet at Puerto Base harbor
- 1-hour bus ride to the harbor (if pickup selected)
- Board the catamaran, receive a safety briefing, and sail for 2 hours
- Search for dolphins, whales, and marine life with deck and glass-panel viewing
- Anchor in Taurito bay for 30-45 minutes of snorkeling, swimming, or toboggan fun
- Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and water while relaxing
- Sail 30 minutes back to Puerto Base, followed by bus drop-off (if selected)
Pricing
From $43 per person
Meeting Point
Puerto Base harbor, Urbanización Puerto Rico, 35130 Mogán, Las Palmas, Spain. Look for the local partner’s catamaran. Arrive 15-30 minutes early if meeting directly; confirm pickup details if using shuttle service.
How to Get There
- By Car: Drive via GC-1 to Puerto Rico; parking available near Puerto Base (paid lots)
- By Public Transport: Take bus lines 1 or 33 from Maspalomas or Las Palmas to Puerto Rico, then a 5-minute walk to the harbor
- By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis from Maspalomas or Playa del Inglés cost €15-25; drop-off at Puerto Base
- By Pickup: Optional shuttle from 35 southern Gran Canaria locations (e.g., Maspalomas, Taurito); confirm point when booking
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Towel and swimwear for snorkeling and swimming
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat for sun protection
- Light jacket for sea breezes
- Camera for coastal and wildlife photos (no flash)
- Motion sickness remedy if prone to seasickness
Know Before You Go
- Dolphin and whale sightings are frequent but not guaranteed
- Weather-dependent; cancellations offer refunds or rescheduling
- Swim/snorkel stop may shorten if wildlife spotting extends
- No smoking, pets (except assistance dogs), or alcohol/drugs allowed
- Not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or unaccompanied minors
- No feeding or touching marine life to protect the ecosystem
- Pickup points are within a 5-minute walk of most southern resorts
Reviews
- Amazing trip, great value for money, with beautiful scenery—would highly recommend!
- Very friendly staff sang happy birthday to my mum! The team made the trip special—thank you!
- Brilliant day from start to finish; seeing dolphins jumping in their natural surroundings was magical.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What is the likelihood of seeing dolphins or whales on this cruise?
Dolphins and whales are spotted on approximately 80-90% of trips in Gran Canaria’s waters, a hotspot for bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and occasionally minke whales due to warm Atlantic currents. Sightings aren’t guaranteed as animals are wild, but the crew navigates known areas to maximize chances. Glass panels enhance viewing even without surface sightings. The tour remains enjoyable with snorkeling, slides, and scenery. Summer offers calmer seas for better visibility. It’s a thrilling natural adventure. Expect excitement either way, with frequent cetacean encounters.
Is the snorkeling and toboggan slide suitable for all ages?
Yes, the snorkeling and toboggan slide are family-friendly, with snorkel masks and life jackets provided for all ages and skill levels. The calm Taurito bay is ideal for kids and non-swimmers, with crew supervision ensuring safety. The slide adds playful fun, though young children need adult oversight. Non-swimmers can relax on deck with drinks. The activities suit ages 4+, but confirm with the operator for very young kids. It’s an inclusive highlight for families. Bring swimwear for maximum enjoyment. Many call it a kid-friendly thrill.
What drinks are included, and can I bring my own?
Complimentary soft drinks and water are provided during the swim stop, sufficient for the 3.5-4-hour trip. No alcohol is included, and outside food or drinks, including alcohol, are prohibited to maintain cleanliness and eco-standards. The selection keeps you refreshed while snorkeling or relaxing. Additional drinks may be available for purchase—check onboard. This setup ensures a hassle-free experience. The crew serves promptly for convenience. It’s a thoughtful inclusion for a sunny cruise. Notify the operator for specific drink requests when booking.
What happens if the weather affects the cruise or snorkeling stop?
If rough seas or adverse weather cancel the cruise, you’ll receive a full refund or rescheduling option, notified via booking contact. The snorkeling stop may be shortened or skipped if conditions are unsafe, with more time spent on wildlife spotting or deck relaxation. Gran Canaria’s mild climate minimizes disruptions, but the crew prioritizes safety. Check updates 24 hours prior via email or phone. Refunds are processed smoothly for peace of mind. This flexibility ensures a fun, safe adventure. The catamaran’s design handles light waves well.
How does the pickup service work, and what if my hotel isn’t listed?
Pickup covers 35 designated points across southern Gran Canaria (e.g., Maspalomas, Taurito, San Agustín), within a 5-minute walk of most resorts. Confirm your nearest point when booking, as direct hotel pickups aren’t offered. If your hotel isn’t near a listed point, meet at Puerto Base harbor or arrange a taxi. The shuttle adds convenience for €5-10 extra; the no-pickup option is cheaper. Contact the operator to clarify locations. This system streamlines logistics for southern tourists. It’s ideal for those without cars.
