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Lanzarote Whale Watching Tours

Lanzarote whale watching tours depart from Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen into the channel between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, where pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and loggerhead turtles are regularly sighted. Find catamaran tours, speedboat options, and sunset sailing formats here.
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Slide 1 of 10, Sailboat with tourists on a private dolphin watching tour in open sea.
Sailboat with tourists on a private dolphin watching tour in open sea.
Dolphin swimming in ocean during private dolphin watching tour.
Dolphins swimming in the clear waters of Lanzarote.
Tourists on a private sailboat tour for dolphin watching near coastal cliffs.
Tourists boarding a boat for a private dolphin watching tour at a marina.
Dolphins leaping in the waters of Lanzarote.
Dolphins swimming during a private dolphin watching tour.
Tourists on a cruise boat in Lanzarote listening to a guide about whale and dolphin watching.
Tourists on a cruise boat at sunset in Lanzarote, preparing to watch whales and dolphins.
Tourists adjusting sails on a private dolphin watching tour boat.

Private Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise

2 hrs 30 mins - 4 hrs
1 more

  • Sail off the coast of Lanzarote to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat on a 14-meter-long, fully electric catamaran.

  • Listen in on the calls of these marine species using the hydrophone on board, and maximize your chances of spotting them using the 360-degree camera.

  • You'll be accompanied by a skipper and an expert who speaks English, Spanish, and French. They'll offer unique insights into this vast marine world.

  • You'll get to savor water, organic refreshments, and fresh fruit to keep you energized and hydrated on this 4-hour-long experience.

  • For unbeatable golden hour views, upgrade to the sunset cruise - the perfect experience for those wanting to sit back and soak in the majestic views.

More details

  • Sail off the coast of Lanzarote to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat on a 14-meter-long, fully electric catamaran.

  • Listen in on the calls of these marine species using the hydrophone on board, and maximize your chances of spotting them using the 360-degree camera.

  • You'll be accompanied by a skipper and an expert who speaks English, Spanish, and French. They'll offer unique insights into this vast marine world.

  • You'll get to savor water, organic refreshments, and fresh fruit to keep you energized and hydrated on this 4-hour-long experience.

  • For unbeatable golden hour views, upgrade to the sunset cruise - the perfect experience for those wanting to sit back and soak in the majestic views.

from
€750
Slide 1 of 12, Tourist boat departing from Lanzarote port for dolphin watching.
Tourist boat departing from Lanzarote port for dolphin watching.
Tourists seated inside a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise near coastal buildings.
Tourists on a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise, ocean view in the background.
Dolphins swimming in the ocean during Sunset Speedboat Dolphin Cruise.
Tourist receiving snacks on a speedboat during Sunset Dolphin Cruise.
Tourists on a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise, with a guide steering the boat.
Dolphin swimming near a boat in Lanzarote waters.
Dolphins swimming alongside a boat in Lanzarote.
Tourists on a speedboat enjoying a sunset cruise with distant coastal views.
Tourists enjoying sunset views on a speedboat during a dolphin cruise.
Tourists seated inside a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise near the coastline.
Yellow speedboat docked at marina, passengers boarding for Sunset Speedboat Dolphin Cruise.

Speedboat Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise with Sunset & Transfers

2 hrs 30 mins
2 more

  • Sail along the crystal clear waters off the coast of Lanzarote on a 2.5-hour dolphin watching cruise on a speedboat.

  • Spot the region's most magical species, including the Bottlenose Dolphin, Risso's Dolphins, and more, as you sip on a sparkling refreshment.

  • Seamless round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned bus directly from your hotel eliminate the need to reach the pier on your own.

  • You'll be accompanied by an English, Spanish, and French-speaking expert for fascinating commentary during the cruise.

  • Savor delectable local pastries on the boat. After all, your taste buds deserve a treat just as much as your eyes do.

More details

  • Sail along the crystal clear waters off the coast of Lanzarote on a 2.5-hour dolphin watching cruise on a speedboat.

  • Spot the region's most magical species, including the Bottlenose Dolphin, Risso's Dolphins, and more, as you sip on a sparkling refreshment.

  • Seamless round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned bus directly from your hotel eliminate the need to reach the pier on your own.

  • You'll be accompanied by an English, Spanish, and French-speaking expert for fascinating commentary during the cruise.

  • Savor delectable local pastries on the boat. After all, your taste buds deserve a treat just as much as your eyes do.

from
€52
Slide 1 of 11, Dolphins swimming in the clear waters of Lanzarote.
Dolphins swimming in the clear waters of Lanzarote.
Tourists on a catamaran in Lanzarote waters with mountains in the background.
Dolphins leaping in the waters of Lanzarote.
Tourists on a cruise boat in Lanzarote listening to a guide before whale and dolphin watching.
Tourists on a cruise boat at sunset in Lanzarote, watching for whales and dolphins.
Tourists on a sailboat in Lanzarote waters, watching for whales and dolphins.
Tourist on a cruise boat in Lanzarote waters, looking out for whales and dolphins.
Dolphins swimming in clear Lanzarote waters.
Dolphin swimming in clear Lanzarote waters.
Tourists on a catamaran in Lanzarote waters, heading to watch whales and dolphins.
Tourists on a sailboat in Lanzarote waters for whale and dolphin watching.

Small Group Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise

2 hrs 30 mins - 4 hrs

  • Cruise on a quiet, emission-free catamaran as you spot the region's most majestic dolphins and whales off Lanzarote's coastline.

  • Enjoy your cruise in a small group of no more than 12 people for a completely private, intimate experience.

  • Listen to whale and dolphin calls using an onboard hydrophone system, discovering how these species communicate underwater.

  • Relax with snacks and refreshments while sailing as your English, Spanish, and French-speaking guide offers fascinating insights along the way.

  • Choose a shorter, 2.5-hour sunset tour if you're short on time or simply want to enjoy the sun dipping below the Atlantic horizon.

More details

  • Cruise on a quiet, emission-free catamaran as you spot the region's most majestic dolphins and whales off Lanzarote's coastline.

  • Enjoy your cruise in a small group of no more than 12 people for a completely private, intimate experience.

  • Listen to whale and dolphin calls using an onboard hydrophone system, discovering how these species communicate underwater.

  • Relax with snacks and refreshments while sailing as your English, Spanish, and French-speaking guide offers fascinating insights along the way.

  • Choose a shorter, 2.5-hour sunset tour if you're short on time or simply want to enjoy the sun dipping below the Atlantic horizon.

from
€75
Slide 1 of 8, Dolphins swimming near a boat in Lanzarote.
Dolphins swimming near a boat in Lanzarote.
Tourist boat departing port for dolphin watching near rocky coastline.
Tourist pointing at dolphins from a yellow mini speedboat on the ocean.
Dolphins swimming in the ocean during Sunset Speedboat Dolphin Cruise.
Tourists enjoying sunset views on a speedboat during a dolphin cruise.
Dolphin swimming in ocean during Sunset Speedboat Dolphin Cruise.
Tourist observing dolphins from a mini speedboat on the ocean.
Yellow speedboat docked at marina, passengers boarding for Sunset Speedboat Dolphin Cruise.

Speedboat Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise

1 hr 30 mins - 2 hrs 30 mins
1 more

  • Cruise along Lanzarote’s coast on the quick and zippy Biosfera Jet for a thrilling time out in the Atlantic over a compact 1.5-hour adventure.

  • Spot the region's native dolphin and whale species with an English, Spanish, and French-speaking guide's expertise.

  • Enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear and tropical waters of the Atlantic as you spot shoals of vibrant fish and other marine life swimming around you.

  • Upgrade to enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset cruise, with seamless round-trip transfers included. This ticket also gets you beverages, juice, or water, with local pastries.

More details

  • Cruise along Lanzarote’s coast on the quick and zippy Biosfera Jet for a thrilling time out in the Atlantic over a compact 1.5-hour adventure.

  • Spot the region's native dolphin and whale species with an English, Spanish, and French-speaking guide's expertise.

  • Enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear and tropical waters of the Atlantic as you spot shoals of vibrant fish and other marine life swimming around you.

  • Upgrade to enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset cruise, with seamless round-trip transfers included. This ticket also gets you beverages, juice, or water, with local pastries.

from
€35
Slide 1 of 14, Tourist boat departing port for dolphin watching near rocky coastline.
Tourist boat departing port for dolphin watching near rocky coastline.
Tourists on a boat watching dolphins in the sea of Lanzarote.
Dolphins swimming near a boat in Lanzarote.
Aerial view of Isla de Lobos and turquoise waters near Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands.
Tourist sitting on a dock overlooking clear waters on Lobos Island half-day trip.
Tourist boat departing from Lanzarote port for dolphin watching.
Tourists in red jackets on a boat departing from port for dolphin watching.
Dolphins swimming alongside a boat in Lanzarote.
Dolphin swimming near a boat in Lanzarote waters.
Tourist photographing rocky beach on Lobos Island half-day trip.
Rocky shoreline and turquoise waters of Lobos Island with volcanic landscape in the background.
Boat on clear waters near rocky shore and house, Lobos Island beach.
Aerial view of Isla de Lobos bay near Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain.
Tourists in red jackets boarding a yellow boat at a port for a dolphin watching tour.

Lobos Island & Dolphin Watching Half-Day Trip

5 hrs
2 more

  • Cruise on a fast speedboat along Lanzarote’s scenic coastline as you head to the uninhabited reserve at Lobos Island.

  • Spot the region's dolphin and whale species on your cruise, with an experienced crew to offer key insights along the way.

  • Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time on Lobos Island to explore its natural lagoons or take a hike along its volcanic trails.

  • Savour a sumptuous picnic lunch on the cruise, which includes sandwiches, water, juices, and drinkable yogurt.

  • Seamless hotel transfers ensure you won't have to travel to a common meeting point or to the pier.

More details

  • Cruise on a fast speedboat along Lanzarote’s scenic coastline as you head to the uninhabited reserve at Lobos Island.

  • Spot the region's dolphin and whale species on your cruise, with an experienced crew to offer key insights along the way.

  • Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time on Lobos Island to explore its natural lagoons or take a hike along its volcanic trails.

  • Savour a sumptuous picnic lunch on the cruise, which includes sandwiches, water, juices, and drinkable yogurt.

  • Seamless hotel transfers ensure you won't have to travel to a common meeting point or to the pier.

from
€72
Slide 1 of 10, Catamaran sailing at sunset in Lanzarote for dolphin watching.
Catamaran sailing at sunset in Lanzarote for dolphin watching.
Dolphins swimming near boat at sunset in Lanzarote.
Tourist capturing Lanzarote sunset over ocean with smartphone.
Pouring drinks on a boat in Lanzarote during sunset.
Snacks on a tray aboard Lanzarote sunset boat tour.
Catamaran with tourists at sunset on a Lanzarote dolphin watching tour.
Dolphin surfacing near boat at sunset with Lanzarote mountains in background.
Tourist on boat enjoying Lanzarote sunset with distant sailboat.
Tourist relaxing on a boat in Lanzarote at sunset with a drink.
Sailboat on Lanzarote waters at sunset with tourists on deck.

Dolphin Watching Sunset Sailing Cruise

2 hrs
2 more

  • Sail along Lanzarote’s south coast on a catamaran during golden hour, spotting dolphins swimming in their natural habitat.

  • An expert speaking five languages will accompany you on the tour, telling you all about the region's unique species.

  • You'll be welcomed on board the catamaran with a welcome drink, along with another beverage and a snack during the cruise.

  • Seamless pickups from the nearest point to your hotel ensure you won't have to worry about the evening's logistics whatsoever.

More details

  • Sail along Lanzarote’s south coast on a catamaran during golden hour, spotting dolphins swimming in their natural habitat.

  • An expert speaking five languages will accompany you on the tour, telling you all about the region's unique species.

  • You'll be welcomed on board the catamaran with a welcome drink, along with another beverage and a snack during the cruise.

  • Seamless pickups from the nearest point to your hotel ensure you won't have to worry about the evening's logistics whatsoever.

from
€53

Similar things to do in Lanzarote

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Whale watching in Lanzarote at a glance

  • Year-round tours; calmest seas and higher demand March through October
  • 1.5-hour express trips to 4-hour cruises; half-day with Lobos combo
  • Bottlenose and common dolphins, occasional pilot whales, volcanic coastline, seabirds
  • Electric catamarans, sailing catamarans, speedboats, small motorboats, private charters
  • Standard life jackets provided; guests bring layers, sun protection, optional light windbreaker
  • Skippers and marine guides provide live commentary, species facts, and basic safety briefings
  • Mainly Puerto del Carmen and Puerto Calero; some routes from Playa Blanca, Órzola
  • Coastal runs between Lanzarote and nearby islets; short offshore transits to dolphin-rich areas
  • Families, couples, wildlife enthusiasts, and small groups wanting flexible dolphin-focused boat trips

Which Lanzarote whale watching cruise is right for you?

Small group whale & dolphin watching cruise – 4-hour day

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Eco-minded travellers wanting maximum time with guides and hydrophone listening in a quiet setting
  • Anyone seeking a quick outing or a party-style atmosphere removed
  • Puerto Calero marina; hotel transfers may be available on select options
  • 100% electric small catamaran, mostly open deck with limited cabin space
  • About 4 hours total
  • South-coast Atlantic waters off Lanzarote, route adjusted to wildlife reports
  • Unhurried and calm; minimal engine vibration, some motion on open water
  • Life jackets, marine biologist guide, simple snacks and drinks, hydrophone use
  • Longest shared tour with the most educational, low-impact format

Small group whale & dolphin watching cruise – 2.5-hour sunset

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Couples and photographers who want golden-hour light plus focused wildlife searching
  • Travellers prioritising flat seas and daylight-only conditions removed
  • Puerto Calero marina; check confirmation for exact dock
  • Electric small catamaran with outdoor seating and basic shelter
  • Around 2.5 hours
  • Same wildlife zone as the day cruise, timed to finish at or just after sunset
  • Relaxed, slightly cooler and potentially choppier than daytime
  • Safety gear, specialist guide, soft drinks or similar refreshments, hydrophone
  • Combines sunset atmosphere with a small-group, eco-style whale experience

Lobos Island & dolphin watching half-day trip

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Families and explorers wanting dolphins plus island hiking, beach time, or snorkelling
  • Visitors who only want a short wildlife cruise without stepping ashore removed
  • Coach pickup from main resorts to the ferry point (often Órzola or Playa Blanca)
  • Standard sightseeing boat or ferry plus local excursion boat around Lobos
  • Roughly 5.5 hours including transfers and island stop
  • Lanzarote to Lobos Island, with cetacean search in the channel en route
  • Mixed; open-water sections can be bouncy, island section relaxed
  • Boat transport, guide, island free time, usually picnic-style lunch and snorkel gear
  • Adds a protected island visit to dolphin watching, creating a fuller half-day

Speedboat whale & dolphin watching – 1.5-hour mini day cruise

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Time-pressed or thrill-seeking guests who want a fast, high-energy ride and quick chance of sightings
  • Young children, pregnant travellers, or anyone prone to seasickness removed
  • Puerto del Carmen marina, often with optional hotel transfers
  • Rigid inflatable speedboat (RIB), fully open and low to the water
  • Around 1.5 hours
  • Rapid run from Puerto del Carmen along the south coast, out to known dolphin areas
  • Very fast and exposed; expect bumps and spray in moderate seas
  • Life jackets, skipper-guide, basic snorkel stop on some daytime departures
  • Shortest, most adrenaline-focused format with minimal impact on your day’s schedule

Dolphin watching sunset sailing cruise (large catamaran)

  • Dedicated whale tour
  • Groups and couples seeking a social sunset sail with drinks, snacks, and a reasonable chance of dolphins
  • Travellers wanting an intimate small-group or research-style outing removed
  • Puerto del Carmen or similar resort harbour, usually with round-trip transfers
  • Large sailing catamaran with bar, music system, and spacious decks
  • About 2.5 hours
  • Coastal loop along Lanzarote’s south shore, detouring when dolphins are spotted
  • Easygoing, stable platform; more people on board and light music
  • Safety equipment, guide commentary, welcome drink, light snacks; paid bar often available
  • Best balance of price, comfort, and sunset ambiance for social travellers and families

Whale sightings & season in Lanzarote

Lanzarote’s whale and dolphin watching runs year-round thanks to resident species, but conditions are generally most favourable from March to October, when seas are calmer and boats can cover more ground. Summer (June to September) is the busiest period with many departures and stable weather; spring and early autumn are slightly quieter but still active. Winter trips do operate and can deliver good encounters, though Atlantic swells and wind make sailings more weather-dependent.

Bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales are the most regularly encountered species. Common dolphins and Atlantic spotted dolphins are also seen, while larger whales such as Bryde’s, fin, or humpback whales are occasional visitors and should be considered a rare bonus. Some operators may offer rebooking if no whales are seen — check the no-sighting policy on your product. Sightings are wild and never guaranteed; in-season odds are stronger but every departure depends on weather and the pods’ movement.

Responsible whale watching: A must-do

Lanzarote’s licensed “Blue Boat” operators follow Canary Islands cetacean-watching guidelines to reduce disturbance and protect natural behaviors.
Boats use a slow, minimal-wake approach when entering an area where dolphins or whales are present.
Skippers maintain a respectful distance from pods and avoid blocking their direction of travel.
A strict no pursuit policy applies if animals dive, change course, or move away.
Only a limited number of boats may stay near the same pod at one time.

What a whale watching day looks like in Lanzarote

Arrive and board at the marina

You arrive at the designated marina 20–30 minutes before departure, check in with the crew, and step aboard your speedboat or catamaran. After a brief safety talk, you choose a spot on deck or in the cabin as lines are cast off.

Cruise out along the Lanzarote coast

As you leave Puerto del Carmen, Puerto Calero, or Playa Blanca, the boat picks up speed and follows the volcanic shoreline. For 15–40 minutes you settle in, feel the Atlantic breeze, and listen to your guide outline the search area and wildlife.

The open-water search

Once in the main viewing zone, speed reduces and everyone scans the waves for blows, splashes, and fins. You move between railings or viewing points while the crew use their experience (and sometimes hydrophones) to locate dolphins or whales.

Watching wildlife when spotted

When animals are sighted, the captain keeps a controlled distance and adjusts position so you can watch safely. You shift sides for better views, take photos, and listen as the guide explains behaviour, species, and local conservation rules before the boat moves on.

Return run and disembarkation

After the search window, the captain points the bow back toward the marina and increases speed. You review photos, ask final questions, and enjoy the coastline again before docking, disembarking, and heading back to your hotel or next activity.

Is Lanzarote whale watching right for you?

  • Overall reality: Lanzarote whale and dolphin tours are open‑water Atlantic trips with sun, wind, and occasional swell. Wildlife is wild, so sightings are never guaranteed.
  • Choose it if: You’re comfortable spending 1.5–4 hours at sea, can stand on deck for better views, and see the boat ride and coastline as part of the experience.
  • Think twice if: You have strong motion sensitivity, very young children, or expect a guaranteed close‑up encounter in a short time slot.
  • Seasickness: Swell can be noticeable, especially on speedboats. Take motion medication 1–2 hours before departure, avoid heavy meals, and stay in the center of the boat.

What you'll see on the water

Bottlenose Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins often approach moving boats, riding the bow wave or surfing in the wake. Groups may surface in quick succession. Fun fact: Bottlenose dolphins can recognize individual whistles from companions even after years apart.

Common and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins

Mixed or single-species pods appear alongside or just ahead of the boat. They often travel in loose groups and perform short leaps. Fun fact: Atlantic spotted dolphins develop more body spots as they age.

Short-Finned Pilot Whales (if lucky)

Pilot whales occasionally cruise through deeper channels. When resting, they can appear almost motionless. Fun fact: Pilot whale pods are often matriarchal, centered around experienced females.

Sea Turtles and Flying Fish (if lucky)

A loggerhead turtle may be seen resting near the surface and flying fish can glide above the bow wave. Fun fact: Flying fish can glide for over 200 metres using enlarged pectoral fins.

Atlantic Seabirds

Seabirds like gulls and shearwaters follow the boat or circle offshore. They dive for fish and may hint at activity below. Fun fact: Cory’s shearwaters can travel thousands of kilometres to feed.

Volcanic Coastline and Nearby Islands

Dark lava cliffs and small coves are visible along the coast, with outlines of nearby islands in clear conditions. Fun fact: Much of Lanzarote’s coastline was shaped by 18th century eruptions.

Atlantic Sunset at Sea (on evening departures)

During late-day cruises, the boat remains offshore as the sun sets, altering light and shadows. Fun fact: The Atlantic’s moist air enhances red and orange tones at sunset.

Your whale watching tour boarding points in Lanzarote

Puerto Calero Marina

Puerto Calero Marina, Edif. Antiguo Varadero, 35571 Puerto Calero, Yaiza, Las Palmas, Spain. Departure time: Morning and midday departures are common. When to arrive: 20–30 minutes before departure. Nearest landmark: Hotel Costa Calero Thalasso & Spa.

Puerto del Carmen Old Town Harbour

Puerto del Carmen Harbour, Varadero S/N, 35510 Tías, Las Palmas, Spain. Departure time: Mid-morning through late afternoon. When to arrive: 25–30 minutes before scheduled time. Nearest landmark: Near the old town restaurant strip and Mirador del Puerto.

Marina Rubicón, Playa Blanca

Marina Rubicón, Calle el Berrugo 2, Urb. Castillo del Águila, 35580 Playa Blanca, Yaiza, Las Palmas, Spain. Departure time: Late-morning and afternoon. When to arrive: 20–30 minutes early. Nearest landmark: Marina Rubicón shopping and dining area with a lighthouse-style tower.

Plan your visit in Lanzarote

Timings & Duration

  • Operating season: Year-round with calmer seas from March to October.
  • Daily departures: Morning, midday, and late-afternoon/sunset.
  • Time on water: Approximately 2–3 hours, with some tours up to 4 hours.
  • Half-day planning: Allow extra time for check-in and transfers.

Photography on Lanzarote whale watching tours

Photography on Lanzarote whale watching tours means planning for bright sun, sea movement, and unpredictable distances to wildlife (sightings are never guaranteed).

  • Light window vs season: Expect strong daylight for most departures; summer sunsets remain bright until after 20:00, while winter cruises shift to softer light after ~18:00.
  • Lens / focal length guidance: A 70–300mm zoom is practical; 100–400mm offers more reach for distant subjects.
  • Fast shutter / burst: Start around 1/1000s; ISO 200–400 in full sun, rising around sunset.
  • Flash-off ethics: Flash is kept off to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Battery care: Bring a spare battery and protect gear from salt spray.
  • Phone vs camera: Dedicated cameras typically yield stronger results than phones for distant subjects.

Frequently asked questions about whale watching tours in Lanzarote

  • Most standard trips run 2–3 hours on the water. Express speedboat departures can be around 1.5 hours, while combo itineraries that include Isla de Lobos or beach time typically last 4–6 hours door to door.

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