Pilot whales show up fast here.

This 2-hour sail from Puerto Colón gives you the fun of a proper day on deck plus the chance to spot pilot whales and dolphins in Tenerife’s west-coast waters. I especially like the old-school feel of the teak-built sailboat (it’s described as a goleta-style ship) and how the crew keeps things upbeat while you hunt for sightings. The one thing I’d plan around is that the trip runs only as comfortably as the sea allows, since it depends on sea conditions.

I really like the onboard setup: upper-deck views for spotting and a main deck with a central table where you can relax with a drink. I also like that you get more than just watching—there’s a swim stop in Costa Adeje, plus a meal included and soft drinks free for the whole time.

One consideration: you’re not just standing around in the harbor. You’ll be on a moving boat, and the info around accessibility is mixed, so if mobility is a factor, confirm details before you go.

Key things to know before you go

• Pilot whale and dolphin spotting is the core goal, with the crew explaining what to look for.
• Upper deck + main deck means you can choose between sun/spotting and shade/relaxing.
• Swim stop in Costa Adeje turns the cruise from sightseeing into a break-with-a-view.
• Teak-built, goleta-style sailboat feels like a throwback at sea, not a modern day-trip ferry.
• Drinks and a simple meal are part of the value—soft drinks are free and beer/wine is included at lunch time.

Boarding the Barco Shogun at Colon Harbours pier 14

Your trip starts at the Barco Shogun, at Colon Harbours in Puerto Colón, pier number 14 (right next to the petrol station). Getting there early helps. You want a few minutes to find the pier quickly, park yourself on deck, and get your photo angles sorted before the boat pulls away.

Once you’re onboard, the vibe is old-school sail rather than cramped tourist boat. The boat is described as a traditional oriental sailboat, built in teak hard wood, and the whole experience leans into that historic “sea exploration” feeling. Whether you care about the backstory or not, the practical payoff is the open deck space—plenty of room for sunlight, views, and moving around safely during the cruise.

Bathrooms are also a real plus. There are two bathrooms below deck plus a third at deck level, so you’re not stuck waiting if you’re on board for the full 2 hours.

If you use a wheelchair, there’s a small mismatch in the provided info: it says wheelchair accessible in one place, but also says the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. That’s not something to guess about. If this matters for you, message the operator to confirm step-free access and where you can sit.

What you’ll do on the water: cruising for pilot whales and dolphins

The whole reason to book is simple: spend time cruising along the west coast waters off Tenerife (from the Puerto Colón area) looking for pilot whales and dolphins.

You’ll move from the start point out into the water where the crew takes you to the local dolphin and pilot whale populations. The goal is spotting, not just “being near” wildlife. When things line up, it can feel like the boat is doing exactly what it should: keeping the sightings in view while everyone has a decent look from the best deck positions.

One of the best parts is that you don’t just stare at the sea in silence. You get an explanation onboard about why pilot whales are attracted to the west coast of Tenerife. Even without getting overly technical, it makes your whale-spotting more than a random search—you start recognizing the patterns the crew is watching for.

How spotting usually feels in real life

On any whale watch, the experience is a mix of anticipation and surprise. The sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the operator’s focus is clearly on pilot whales and dolphins. You’ll want to treat this like a short, active outing: eyes up, scan patiently, then react when you see spouts and dorsal fins break the surface.

Also, bring your comfort into it. If you spend the whole time in one spot, you might miss the best sighting angle when the boat changes course. I like having a “base” on one deck for visibility, then moving as needed.

Deck time matters: upper views, main deck comfort, and the bar

This is the kind of tour where you choose your mood on the boat. If you want to spot whales, head up for the upper-deck views. If you want to relax, the main deck has access to a large central table—good for leaning in with a drink, checking the sea surface, and just soaking up the ride.

There’s also an onboard bar feel to it. Soft drinks are free for the whole trip, and you can buy drinks from the bar as well. Beer and wine are included at lunch time, but alcoholic drinks outside that are available for purchase. Practically, this means you can stay in “scenic and calm” mode without paying extra until you decide you want something.

Two things I’d note for your planning:

• You’ll spend most of your 2 hours outside, even if you duck into shade. Sun protection matters.
• You’ll be on a moving sailboat. Keep an eye on footing, and don’t stand on slick spots near the deck edges if conditions feel choppy.

Sea conditions: how to prepare mentally

This tour is subject to sea conditions. That’s normal for whale watching, but it’s worth respecting. If the sea is rough, you might feel more motion than on a shore-based stroll. If you’re sensitive to motion, pack what helps you on boats (and consider going in rested rather than rushed).

The Costa Adeje swim stop: a quick refresh with a view

A key reason this outing feels like more than a “look-and-hope” experience is the swim stop in Costa Adeje. You’re not just cruising—there’s time to get in the water.

That sounds simple, but it changes the day’s rhythm. Whale watching can be slow, then suddenly fast. Adding a swim gives you a second payoff even if sightings are limited.

Because you’re on a boat, do the practical stuff beforehand:

• Keep swimwear accessible so you’re not hunting for it at the worst time.
• Bring a towel you can actually dry with.
• Have sunscreen on early, because you’ll be outside for the cruise portion too.

If you’re traveling with kids or just love a water break, this is the part people tend to remember as the “we actually did something” moment, not only the “we saw something” moment.

Included food and drinks: is it worth $20?

At about $20 per person for a 2-hour outing, this tour is priced like a value whale-watch, not a luxury private charter. The inclusions are what make it make sense.

Here’s what’s included:

• Sailboat cruise with professional crew
• Water and soft drinks free for the trip
• Beer and wine included at lunch time
• Food: rice with vegetables, meatballs, cabbage salad, bread, and fruit
• (Option selected) bus transfer from select areas

For your money, the best “value logic” is this: you’re paying for a sea outing plus a swim plus food and drinks, not just a guide pointing at wildlife from shore. Even if you mostly care about whale watching, the included meal and drinks mean you won’t burn budget on snacks the way you would on many short tours.

Food here is simple and filling—exactly what you want on a day where you’re active on deck. If you’re expecting fine dining, you’ll be disappointed. But if you want something that keeps you going, it does the job.

And the bar setup adds flexibility. Soft drinks are free, but you can buy additional drinks if you want. So you’re not locked into one thing.

Crew and service: friendly energy and good sighting help

This is one of those tours where the crew’s attitude affects everything. The standout theme in the experience is a friendly, attentive team that makes you feel taken care of, not shuffled along like cargo. When you’re searching for whales, that human factor matters—because it changes how patient you feel when the sea is quiet.

You’ll also benefit from what the crew is watching. When you’re told what to look for and where to look, you stop guessing. That’s how you go from scanning aimlessly to spotting more quickly when the water “breaks” with movement.

Even the organizers are described as helpful, which is reassuring for a tour that starts at a specific pier number. If you’re arriving slightly late or unsure where to go, it helps to know there’s a team ready to point you in the right direction.

Who this tour fits best (and who should think twice)

This is a strong fit if you:

• Want pilot whale and dolphin spotting in a short time window
• Like sun-and-deck time and don’t mind being outdoors
• Appreciate a traditional sailing feel, not just a standard motorboat
• Want a combo outing: whales plus a swim plus included food and drinks

You might think twice if:

• You’re very prone to motion sickness (sea conditions can matter)
• You’re relying on wheelchair access without confirming boat access and seating
• You’re looking for a purely educational, slow-paced nature lecture (this is an active cruise)

Also note the behavior rules. Pets are not allowed (assistance dogs allowed), and things like fishing and feeding animals aren’t permitted. Party groups aren’t allowed either, which is generally good for wildlife and for keeping the boat calmer.

Practical packing checklist for this 2-hour sail

Because you’ll be outside on deck and there’s a swim stop, pack like you’re going to the beach plus a boat ride:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat (or cap)
• Sunscreen
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Anything you’d normally want for a short water break

If you’re sensitive to sun, consider light layers too. The Canaries can feel intense, and the boat doesn’t care if you forgot sunscreen.

And one small tip: wear footwear you trust on a moving deck. Sandals feel easy until you need to step quickly.

Should you book the Neptuno Whale Experience Tenerife sail and swim?

I’d book this if you want a short, good-value whale-watching outing that doesn’t stop at “watching.” The combo of a teak-built sail feel, time on the water for pilot whales and dolphins, and a real swim stop in Costa Adeje makes it more memorable than many fast whale tours.

Skip it only if motion or accessibility is a major concern you can’t plan around. Otherwise, for the price point, it’s a solid way to spend a Tenerife morning or afternoon: friendly crew, decent included food, free soft drinks, and a genuine chance to see whales.

If the goal is wildlife + fun in one package, this hits the brief.

FAQ

How long is the whale-watching sail and swim?

The tour duration is 2 hours.

Where do I board the boat?

You board the Barco Shogun at Colon Harbours, pier number 14 next to the petrol station.

What wildlife can you look for on this tour?

You’re looking for pilot whales and dolphins during the cruise along Tenerife’s west coast.

Is a swim included?

Yes, there is a swim stop in Costa Adeje.

What food and drinks are included?

Water and soft drinks are free all trip. Food included is rice with vegetables, meatballs, cabbage salad, bread, and fruit. Beer and wine are included at lunch time, and alcoholic drinks outside that time are available for purchase.

Are transfers included?

Bus transfer is included from select areas depending on the option you choose. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What languages is the guide available in?

The live tour guide is available in English, French, German, and Spanish.

What’s allowed and not allowed onboard?

Fishing is not allowed, feeding animals is not allowed, and pets are not allowed (assistance dogs allowed). Party groups are not allowed, and alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Is the tour dependent on weather or sea conditions?

Yes, the tour is subject to sea conditions.

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