Aboard · WHALE WATCHING
Nobody can promise a whale, so judge the trip on the rest: how far out it goes, whether the crew cuts the engine and waits, and what the sighting policy is if the day comes up empty. These 15 are compared on exactly that.
Join Travelin Lady from Los Cristianos for a 90-minute whale and dolphin trip on a purpose-built eco-yacht. Guides including Ines explain the wildlife in several languages, while the small, stable boat visits the Cave of Love and pauses for swimming and snorkeling when conditions allow.
“Watched whales, dolphins, and dolphins. Nice sunny weather and kids swam in the ocean.”
From Puerto Los Cristianos, you sail aboard the Bahriyeli with certified multilingual guides who explain Tenerife’s whales, dolphins, turtles, and ocean habitat. The strict no-chase rule means animals set the pace. Expect open-air viewing, an indoor salon, and no swim stop during this two-hour trip.
“Crewe were really knowledgeable. well organised... no chase policy.”
Cruise Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík with a trained guide such as Maria, Lucky, or Gunther watching for humpback and minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seals. You’ll have indoor warmth, outdoor viewing decks, onboard WiFi, toilets, and a café, but dress very warmly because the sea feels much colder than the harbor.
“Excellent experience, we were with whales for 90 minutes of the 3hr trip often very close, once they swam within 20 feet of us, very good and informative commentary from Maria throughout the trip. comfortable, well appointed boat.”
Cruise Madeira’s southern coast for three hours aboard Magic Dolphin, a purpose-built hybrid-electric catamaran. Land-based spotters help locate dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds, while certified guides explain the wildlife. Expect large viewing nets, two decks, toilets, a bar, and striking views of Cabo Girão.
“We were so lucky, we saw 4 sperm whales - it was amazing! The staff were wonderful and very knowledgeable about the species, giving us lots of information about these phenomenal mammals. My only suggestion would be to suggest that children should be at least 5 to be able to enjoy such a trip.”
Set out from Funchal Marina aboard the Seaborn Catamaran for three hours of wildlife watching, island views, and a seasonal swim stop beneath Cabo Girão. The English and Portuguese crew explain the species you see, collect rubbish from the sea, and serve drinks for purchase at the onboard bar.
“Great experience! We saw some dolphins and whales, and ended the trip with a relaxing swim next to a stunning cliff point, definitely recommend!”
Sail from Puerto Colón into Tenerife’s Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary on a quiet, fuel-efficient catamaran. The crew, including captains Carlos and Miguel, explains the marine life, plays underwater sounds, serves snacks and drinks, and stops for a swim. Choose three or five hours.
“The trip was beautiful and we saw some turtles and pilot whales. The crew were really careful around the sea life and turned off the engines as soon as they felt they should. They were helpful and kind. One thing you need to be aware of (and there are plenty of warnings on the booking) is that it is very rough far out into the ocean and a fair few people were very seasick. It’s a wonderful trip and the crew were absolutely amazing with everyone who was ill but don’t let it ruin your trip and take tablets beforehand. Thank you to the crew for looking after my son…”
Cruise from Boston Long Wharf to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary aboard a comfortable high-speed boat. New England Aquarium naturalists explain the wildlife while you watch for humpback, fin, and minke whales, white-sided dolphins, and more. Plan on 3.5 to 4 hours, with snacks for sale onboard.
“I have been all over the gold whale watching and Boston is always the best spot bar none!! We saw a huge pod of dolphins for a long time, then a humpback whale named etch a sketch that completely breeches about 30 feet in front of us!! Then a chin slap. I have never seen this. Sadly i had just put away my phone, but it was amazing to experience. Guides were knowledgeable and the boat was super comfy and warm. Bathrooms nice and clean!! Food and beverage selection amazing as well!! I was coming off a cruise, The hotel across the street, The Marriot Long Warf will hold your…”
From Los Gigantes Port, the Masca Express takes you into the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary to look for pilot whales and dolphins, then along the cliffs before a swim stop in Masca, Barranco Seco, or Juan López. A cold drink is included, and guides such as Alejandro add local sea-life insight.
“A nice boat trip with skilled skippers. We saw pilot whales and dolphins.The Los Gigantes cliffs where impressive.It is worth going!”
Join Brim Explorer for a 7 to 9 hour whale search from Tromsø to Skjervøy. Guides including Connor, Bee, Adrian and Ivan have led lively wildlife talks, while the hybrid catamaran offers warm lounges, panoramic windows, Wi-Fi and outdoor decks.
“Our guide Connor was brilliant, you would not expect Aussie in the arctic! He was funny as well as helpful and informative.”
Join the Magic Dolphin for a two-hour wildlife cruise from Morro Jable. Search for dolphins, pilot whales, turtles, and flying fish with Spanish, English, or German guidance, then stop for a swim in Jandia. Drinks, a toilet, and optional resort pickup are included.
“Nimo and Fran were excellent captain and guide saw 3 pods of dolphins. Good explanations and comfortable boat to speed through the bay.”
Sail from Puerto Colon with guides such as Lucy, Danny, and Lucia, searching for resident pilot whales and dolphins near Tenerife’s southwest coast. Choose two hours for wildlife watching or three hours for a swim and snorkeling stop. Drinks are included, and the catamaran carries up to 50 people.
“Excellent crew saw plenty of pilot whales and bottle nose dolphins free drinks on board overall very good”
Join Peter Pan from Los Cristianos for a two-hour, Blue Flag certified cruise with live commentary in five languages. Look for pilot whales, dolphins, and seabirds without chasing them, then take an optional 15 to 20 minute swim stop if the sea is calm.
“A very friendly crew. The boat was lovely to travel in.”
Board Ragnarok at Los Cristianos Harbour for a two-hour cruise along Tenerife’s south coast. A multilingual English and Spanish crew helps spot pilot whales and dolphins, while Viking décor, music, shaded seating, a bar, toilets, and wheelchair access keep the trip comfortable.
“Definitely worth the price. Staff were all friendly. Nice time out on the ocean spotting the whales and Dolphins. Would recommend.”
Board a high-speed catamaran at Boston’s Long Wharf for a roughly three-and-a-half-hour trip to Stellwagen Bank. A naturalist guide, including guides such as Colin on some departures, explains whale behavior and conservation. Expect outdoor viewing decks, indoor seating, a snack bar, and possible rough seas.
“A slightly strange review - the trip was curtailed due to another passenger being injured but the operator handled everything really well and announced refunds for all passengers with no questions asked.”
Cruise from Kaikoura with an English-speaking crew to look for giant sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and wandering albatross. You get onboard science and Māori knowledge, outdoor viewing decks, air-conditioned seating, wildlife animations, and a modern catamaran designed to reduce underwater noise.
“Such an incredible trip. Saw 3 Sperm Whales and a Blue Whale, the guides were so informative and we all really enjoyed the trip!”
Pick a river, a coast or a harbour.
