Whale and Dolphin Boat Tour with Lunch from Las Galletas Tenerife

Las Galletas harbour

Las Galletas is a small fishing village in the municipality of Arona, on the southern tip of Tenerife, a few minutes from Los Cristianos and Golf del Sur. It has kept a quieter, more local feel than the big resorts, with a pebble beach, a seafront promenade and fish restaurants facing the harbour.

The tour leaves from dock 2 at the harbour, where the skipper welcomes you aboard, explains the route and gives a short safety briefing. Departing from Las Galletas puts you right at the edge of the whale and dolphin area, so very little time is spent in transit and more time is spent at sea with the wildlife.

Whale and dolphin waters off Tenerife

The channel between Tenerife and La Gomera is one of Europe's best places for whale watching, because deep water starts close to the coast. A resident group of short-finned pilot whales lives here all year, together with bottlenose dolphins, while other species such as common dolphins and, in some seasons, larger whales pass through. Calm seas in the island's shelter make sightings easier.

On a small yacht you are close to the water and can hear the whales breathe when they surface. The skipper knows the area well and approaches calmly, keeping a respectful distance. Whale and dolphin tours in Tenerife have a very high sighting rate, but each encounter is different because the animals move freely.

Swimming, snorkelling and sea turtles

After the wildlife watching, the yacht approaches the coast and anchors in clear water for a swim. Snorkelling equipment is provided, so you can look at the rocky seabed, schools of fish and, with some luck, a sea turtle gliding by. Loggerhead and green turtles are seen in the waters of the Canary Islands throughout the year. Keep your distance and never touch them.

The swim stop is a highlight for families and a pleasant break on a warm day. The water temperature in the south of Tenerife ranges from about 19 degrees in late winter to 24 degrees in late summer, so a towel and a light jacket for the return are a good idea.

Local lunch on board

While you swim, the crew prepares lunch on board: typical, freshly made local food served on deck, together with soft drinks and water. It is one of the features guests mention most, because it turns a boat trip into a relaxed meal with a view of the coast and the open ocean.

Canarian cooking is simple and generous, built on fresh local produce, and the exact dishes depend on the day and the season. Let us know about any dietary needs when you book so that we can pass them on to the crew in advance, and the skipper will be happy to tell you about the island's food traditions.

Punta de Rasca

On the way back, the yacht sails along the coast of Punta de Rasca, the southernmost point of this part of Tenerife and a protected natural area of old lava flows, coastal plants and seabirds. Its lighthouse stands on the black rock above the ocean and is a classic photo from the sea.

The protected landscape, known as the Malpaís de Rasca, is one of the few stretches of the southern coast without building, which makes it a beautiful end to the trip. From here it is a short run back to Las Galletas harbour, where the tour ends after about 3 hours. Have your camera ready for the lighthouse.