Last Updated on June 28, 2023 by Suzy McCullough
Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands is a great place to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment. Boat tours run for most of the year as the dolphins live in the warm waters all year round. Dolphin sightings are common and trips run from the main tourist resorts.
Some of the following cruises include a swim stop and this is mentioned in the description. Please check for up-to-date information and the current success rate of dolphin spotting for that particular dolphin boat trip. I guess you could say that the best time of year to enjoy one of the following dolphin tours is any time.
Dolphin species common in Gran Canaria include the bottlenose dolphin. 29 species are said to be found in the open water here including a number of different whales. If you are lucky you might spot a large pod of dolphins in what are more often than not calm seas.
Make sure you take some sun protection as when you are out on the open sea you are prone to the sun’s rays. You wouldn’t want your memorable experiences to be ruined by a bit of sunburn. It can often be cooler out at sea so take an extra layer just in case.
Tours may change and lengths of duration may change. Please make sure you have followed the links below to see up-to-date information. Booking in advance is highly recommended and for some dolphin and/or whale tours, it is essential. If you click on a link in this piece, we may earn affiliate revenue.
#1 TOP PICK
- Free cancellation, Reserve now and pay later
- Pickup is optional from a few select places
- You will receive a free ticket for another trip if you do not see any dolphins
Happy Holidays (In no particular order ….)
1. Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise – LÃneas Salmón, S.L.
➥ BOOK Here ? Tour Duration 2.5 Hours ? Live Tour Guide: English & Spanish
Address: Calle Puerto Escala, 35130 Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas at 11am or Boat Lineas Salmon in Puerto Rico (Puerto Escala) at 14:00
Cruise Information – “Enjoy a trip along the waters surrounding Gran Canaria and see dolphins and whales up close on a dolphin and whale-watching cruise. Relax on board and snap photos of the idyllic scenery during the journey.
Get as close as possible to the majestic dolphins while on the boat so that you can experience their natural habitat in an intimate manner. You can take photos as you watch whales and dolphins play.
Sit back and enjoy the experience with refreshments purchased from the cash bar available on board — and bring the children along for a fun family outing.”
Mario is a good guide we came as a couple last year and back as a family this year. His explanation regarding the dolphins is brilliant you can see his passion for them. We saw twice as many dolphins on this occasion with many flipping out of the water etc brilliant day for my birthday the children and big children loved it
➥ Free Cancellation – Reserve now and pay later
➥ Relax with the on-board bar
➥ In the case of not being able to see the cetaceans you will receive a free voucher to return another day.
2. From Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: Dolphin Watching Cruise – Spirit of the Seas
➥ BOOK Here ? Trip Duration 2-3 Hours ? Host or Greeter: English, Spanish, German, French
Address: Look for the “Spirit of the Sea” boat and dock on the Puerto Base – C. Puerto Base, 26, 35130 Mogán, Las Palmas, Spain
Cruise Information – “Head out on a journey from the Puerto Rico harbour to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine animals in their natural habitat in the Atlantic Ocean. Get up close to the animals from your glass-bottom boat with unlimited drinks.
Sail along the southwest coast of the island in search of marine mammals and benefit from the services and expertise of the friendly multi-lingual crew. Get up-to-date information about the sightings and different species.
Avail of a boat equipped with a large glass bottom in both keels to experience life below the ocean waves without getting wet. Encounter a great diversity of animals including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, green turtles, and flying fish.”
The dolphin sightseeing cruise was excellent. The transfer arrived on time right outside our hotel. The cruise itself was amazing. Travelling along the coast for about 30 – 40 mins past some amazing coastline and then we spotted lots of dolphins. After about 20 – 30 mins we turned around and headed for port. Would definitely do it again! Highly recommend.
➥ Free cancellation, Reserve now and pay later
➥ Pickup Optional from selected nearby meeting points
➥ You will receive a free ticket for another trip if you do not see any dolphins
3. Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise – Multiacuatic GC
➥ BOOK Here ? Trip Duration 2.5 Hours ? Live Tour Guide: German, English, Spanish
Address: Look for the Multiacuatic catamaran boat when you arrive at the meeting point. C. Puerto Base, 35130 Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
Cruise Information – “Departing from Puerto Rico and sailing the southwest coast of Gran Canaria searching for dolphins and whales. You will be met on the bus by the guide, who will take you to the harbour in Puerto Rico from a ‘pick-up point’ near your hotel. We will set sail along the southwest coast of Gran Canaria where you can appreciate the astonishing landscape and scenery.
We will search for dolphins/whales in our normal search range, which is 5/7 miles out to sea from the Faro Maspalomas to Venezuela. Our friendly guides and crew will be available at all times for your own comfort and safety. They will share their extensive marine knowledge and provide you with key information on the wildlife that we may encounter.
Soft drinks and water will be provided free of charge and you can also purchase snacks from the bar. Dolphin Safari lasts typically around two hours. On arrival back to the harbor you will be transported back to your hotel. We recommend you bring Sun cream, a hat, and a jumper as it can get chilly out at sea.
Multiacuatic is a newly constructed catamaran (2005). The boat is 52 feet long and 20 feet wide distributed into two decks. An access ramp is available if required for pushchairs. All possible precautions are taken in relation to safety and security.
During the trip and whilst sighting marine life, a guide specializing in the observations of cetaceans will provide passengers with interesting and factual information. This guide can also give information about other marine life that may be sighted on the trip including turtles, flying fish, etc.”
It was a very nice tour. I was picked up from my hotel and brought back afterwards. I was greeted warmly from the start. The staff on board always tried to make sure that everyone was fine. We saw about 10 dolphins and it really was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. Non-alcoholic drinks are included and snacks can also be purchased at fair prices. There is a toilet on board and plenty of sun when you sit upstairs.
➥ Free cancellation, reserve now and pay later
➥ Soft drinks and water included
➥ Pick up/drop off services available from the south of Gran Canaria
4. Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise with Snorkeling – Lineas Blue Bird
➥ BOOK Here ? Trip Duration 3.5 Hours ? Live Tour Guide: English, Spanish
Address: Please come directly to the harbour called “Puerto Base”, in the urbanisation of Puerto Rico and look for the local partner – C. Puerto Base, 36, 35130 Mogán, Las Palmas, Spain
Cruise Information – “Board a catamaran in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria and head out into the Atlantic Ocean in search of dolphins and whales. Marvel at picturesque views of Gran Canaria’s coastline from the water, sip on complimentary soft drinks and go snorkelling or swimming in the ocean.
Your cruise begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel and transportation to the Puerto Base harbour, where you’ll board your boat. Then, set sail to explore the waters off the coast of Gran Canaria, going in search of dolphins, pilot whales, minke whales, and more.
Watch from the deck or through the glass panels below the deck, keeping an eye out for these magnificent creatures and other aquatic life. Then, get ready to experience the ocean firsthand as your boat anchors in one of the small bays along the coastline.
Go for a swim, enjoy some snorkelling, or make use of the onboard toboggan slide. If you prefer not to get wet, just sit back and relax, admire the view, and sip on a complimentary soft drink.
Spend around 45 minutes enjoying the ocean before your cruise continues with a return journey to the harbour. Your bus will be waiting here to take you back to your accommodation.”
We had a fantastic experience. The tour guides were friendly, helpful and full of enthusiasm. They can never guarantee that you will see anything so I was over the moon with the amount of dolphins we saw. It was an incredible experience, topped off with a swim at the end.
➥ Free cancellation, Reserve now and pay later
➥ Pickup is optional from a few select places
➥ Swimming stop
5. Dolphin Searching Tour in Puerto de Mogán – KEEPER UNO Boat
➥ BOOK Here ? Trip Duration 4 hours (approx)
Address: C. Explanada del Castillete, 163, 35139 Mogán, Las Palmas, Spain
Cruise Information – “Gran Canaria’s Atlantic location makes it one of the best places in Europe to spot whales and dolphins. Observe these magical creatures in style on this modern yacht, with water sports available on board and stops at picturesque beaches and cliffs.
The maximum number of people is eight travellers, ensuring an intimate and luxurious day. In addition, lunch and soft drinks are included. Spend half a day searching for whales and dolphins on the Keeper One yacht Stylish craft makes for an unforgettable day, with plenty of scenic stops Enjoy lunch and soft drinks as you sail the southwest coast of Gran Canaria Plenty of space to play and indulge.”
Great experience, we were able to see a lot of dolphins super close to our ship. Great crew as well, very friendly and caring. I can only recommend this, I had the feeling that due to the smaller size of the ship, it was more personal and a better experience.
➥ Lunch and some soft drinks are included
➥ Spend half a day searching for whales and dolphins on the Keeper One yacht
#1 TOP PICK Hotel Gran Canaria
★ Marina Suites, Puerto Rico
- Beautiful marina views
- Great location for easy access to many different boat trips
- Infinity Pool
Planning a family holiday to Gran Canaria? Why not check out our 12 Family Friendly Best Attractions in Gran Canaria including waterparks, Palmitos Park, and other main attractions? Or are you looking for somewhere to stay? Why not check out this post: Best All-Inclusive Hotels Gran Canaria plus find out the Best tours and excursions in Gran Canaria
Please conduct your own research through reviews and the company’s websites with regard to the current tours. The above information is for reference only. Please also check their cancellation policies with regard to any current travel restrictions etc.
