Freebird: Tenerife's Best Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience
Tenerife is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in marine life. Situated in the warm waters of the mid Atlantic, it’s home to a permanent population of dolphins and pilot whales and on any given day you're almost guaranteed to see one or both of them. The area is occasionally frequented by larger animals and if you’re really lucky you may catch sight of a blue whale or an orca.
There are many ways to experience this fascinating spectacle but by far the most popular is the Freebird 3 hour cruise, which departs twice daily from Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje. It’s one of the top rated excursions in any category (not just boat trips) and it’s easy to see why - with the spacious boats and professional crew, the open bar and the relaxed vibes, it’s the kind of thing that anyone could - and should - enjoy.
On any given day your almost guaranteed to see pilot whales or dolphins off the coast of Costa Adeje
The comfortably and spacious Freebird catamarans are one of the best ways to experience the Tenerife sealife
From the moment you board to the moment you arrive back in port you know you’re in capable hands. The crew speak English, Spanish, and German (amongst others), and their attentiveness and professionalism creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Upon arrival you’re greeted by the crew wearing their impressive white uniform, beaming huge smiles and welcoming you aboard, it really sets you at ease. The boats operate at reduced capacity for the comfort and safety of all passengers and it makes the trip feel even more exclusive.
Once aboard you’ll be able to upgrade to a VIP sunbed (subject to availability) and it’s something that we highly recommend. It’s first come first served and demand is always high, so get there early to avoid disappointment. The upgrade really does make a difference and in fact it’s one of my personal all time favorite experiences - lounging on the soft white bed as the boat rhythmically rocks back and forth, a glass of beer in hand, some cool funky music playing in the background, whilst the warm sea breeze counters the gorgeous Tenerife sun. It’s one of those moments that makes you realize how fortunate you are.
Pro tip
You can upgrade to VIP sunbeds once aboard. It's first come first served so get there early to avoid disappointment.
It won’t be long before you encounter your first pod of sea creatures, most likely dolphins or pilot whales, and at that point the atmosphere shifts to one of excitement and anticipation. The captain quietly maneuvers the boat towards the pod then switches the engines off and a respectful silence falls over the boat. Depending on the time of day you may see dolphins or whales feeding, playing, or even sleeping. It’s so quiet that you can hear the creatures breathing as they bob up for air, and they don’t seem at all bothered by the presence of the boat, if anything they seem to revel in it, often swimming right underneath the boat or putting on a show. I’ve always appreciated how respectful the crew are towards the animals, it just seems like the right way to experience them. You’ll even learn a bit of trivia as the crew explain the variances and habits of the local species, perfect for impressing your friends back home.
See the creatures feeding, playing or sleeping
After an hour or so at sea you’ll head back towards land for a spot of swimming and refreshments, anchoring in one of the secluded bays dotted along the coast. The Tenerife sea stays warm all year round (yes, even in winter) and is a lovely way to cool off or show off your diving technique. Refreshments are available throughout the entire trip, including water, soft drinks, beer, and sandwiches and snacks are provided at the stop off. It’s also a great time to purchase a nice cold ice cream.
Towards the end of the trip you’ll sail back along the coast towards Puerto Colon, along the coast of La Caleta and Costa Adeje. This is your last chance to enjoy one of those special Freebird moments or take a few instagram pics with the stunning Tenerife coastline behind you.
As you pull into port you’ll probably already be planning your next boat trip. Fortunately Freebird offers an alternative 4.5 hour cruise which takes you north to the mighty Cliffs of Los Gigantes. The Los Gigantes cruise offers the opportunity to see even more of the stunning Tenerife scenery and wildlife.
As you can tell we are huge, huge fans of Freebird and we recommend their cruises to anyone who will listen. You don’t need to enjoy sea life to enjoy Freebird, no matter what you're into it’ll be one of the highlights of your holiday.