Lanzarote Tours































































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We curate the best ways to experience
We partner with the best
All the best options, in one place
Book with complete peace of mind

Quick overview

  • Ways to experience: Choose from shared group cruises, private charters, speedboat mini tours, and a cruise to the island of Lobos, among others. 
  • Additional access: Some tours include hotel transfers, food and beverages on board, and guided commentary for deeper insights into the region’s marine life. 
  • Unique experiences: Enjoy a completely private whale and dolphin-watching cruise over four hours, with a hydrophone and a 360-degree camera - all this with just 12 people on the boat.
  • When to book: Peak season slots between July and August last-minute spots fill fast; booking at least a week in advance is your best bet, especially for sunset cruises. 
  • Good to know: Durations vary from 1.5 to 4 hours, but keep in mind that wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed with complete certainty. 
  • Best upgrade: Opt for a private sunset cruise with transfers for exclusivity and flexibility.

Which whale watching tour is best for you?

ExperienceBoarding pointHotel pick-upsDurationBoat typeWhat’s includedGuideWhy choose thisPrice from

Speedboat Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise

Lanzarote Sea Tours

No

1hr 30min

Speedboat

1.5hr tour, expert guide, free time for a swim

Yes

A zippy ride into the Atlantic

€35

Speedboat Sunset cruise with Transfers

None

Yes

2hr 30min

Speedboat

1.5hr tour, expert guide, free time for a swim

Yes

Spectacular golden hour views with the thrill of speed

€52

Dolphin Watching Sunset Sailing Cruise

Puerto del Carmen

Yes

2hr

Catamaran

2hr sunset sailing cruise, expert guide, hotel transfers, beverages & snacks

Yes

Sunset views with the convenience of hotel transfers

€51

Lobos Island & Dolphin Watching Half-Day Trip

None

Yes

5hr

Speedboat

1.5hr speedboat cruise, 2.5hr of free time at Lobos, expert guide, hotel transfers, picnic lunch

Yes

Visit to an uninhabited island reserve with wildlife sightings

€72

Private Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise

Puerto Calero

No

2hr 30min - 4hr

Catamaran

4hr daytime cruise or 2.5hr sunset cruise, hydrophone, expert guide & skipper

Yes

A completely private experience with no more than 12 people

€750

What to expect on a whale watching tour in Lanzarote

Tourists on a boat watching dolphins in the sea of Lanzarote.
Aerial view of Isla de Lobos bay near Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain.
Dolphins swimming alongside a boat in Lanzarote.
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, watching for whales and dolphins.
Tourist receiving snacks on a speedboat during Sunset Dolphin Cruise.
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Begin at the vibrant marina

Set off from Puerto del Carmen or Puerto Calero, which is generally where you’ll board your boat from. The marina buzzes with anticipation as the skipper welcomes you aboard for a journey along Lanzarote’s volcanic coastline.

Cruise along dramatic volcanic shores

Glide along rugged ochre cliffs and ancient lava flows. The open Atlantic reveals a lunar-like landscape where the volcanic earth meets the deep blue sea, creating postcard-worthy scenes you’ll never forget.

Encounter wild dolphins and pilot whales

Keep a sharp eye for playful bottlenose dolphins leaping in the boat’s wake and the graceful silhouette of short-finned pilot whales breaching. Some tours even include a hydrophone, allowing you to hear these spectacular species communicate with each other via their truly unique calls.

Enjoy expert guidance and onboard comfort

Listen to knowledgeable marine biologists sharing insights into the local marine life, along with other fascinating tidbits about these cruises.

Take to the Atlantic during sunset

If you choose a sunset tour, you get to bask in the evolving golden hues over Lanzarote’s coastline. This is the perfect experience for couples wanting a quieter, cosier experience without feeling rushed.

Enjoy sumptuous refreshments on board

Some tours include a welcome drink, a complimentary beverage, and light snacks on the boat, allowing you to keep yourself fuelled under the blazing sun.

  • Ticket availability & advance booking: High-demand tours like the private touror the sunset cruise often get booked beforehand, especially during the peak season. If these are a priority, booking your experience at least 5-7 days in advance ensures you don’t miss out on an experience of a lifetime. 
  • Ways to experience whale watching: Choose from classic shared cruises, high-speed tours on a speedboat, or eco-friendly catamaran options with extra amenities. If you book a sunset cruise, though, keep in mind that this isn’t a wildlife-first experience. 
  • Transfers & day trip options: Some tickets include hotel pickups or transfers, a convenient inclusion if you aren’t staying close to the boarding point. 
  • Age or participation restrictions: While most tours are open to guests of all ages, keep in mind that these experiences aren’t wheelchair accessible. 
  • Best time to book & seasonal availability: March–October typically offers calmer seas and better chances at spotting the region’s marine life. Book early during weekends or holidays.
  • Weather & sea conditions: Your tour will heavily depend on the weather conditions on the day. Rougher seas causes due to heavy rains or storms may lead to your tour being cancelled. 
  • Cancellation & rebooking policy: You can cancel all your whale-watching tours at least 24 hours in advance to get a full refund.

Marine life you’ll spot on your boat tour in Lanzarote

Striped dolphins leaping in Tenerife ocean waters.
Risso's Dolphin swimming in Lanzarote waters.
Pilot whale surfacing during whale watching trip in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, Spain.
Snorkeler near a sperm whale in the waters of Tenerife.
Bryde's whale feeding among seagulls in the ocean near Tenerife.

Are whale watching tours truly eco-friendly? 

Conscious about your whale watching tour being environmentally-friendly? Worry not - all tours featuring an electric catamaran are entirely eco-friendly.

Your guide and skipper are trained to ensure they don’t cause any disruptions to the region’s marine life along the way! They always maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and retreat if they ever show any signs of wanting to avoid proximity to the boat.

Boarding points for whale watching in Lanzarote

Puerto del Carmen

Most whale watching tours in Lanzarote set sail from Puerto del Carmen, a bustling harbor in the Tías area known for its lively atmosphere and charming seaside vibe. Check your confirmation email for the exact pier details before you head out.

How to get there: Puerto del Carmen is easily accessible on foot if you’re staying locally. Taxis and rideshares are reliable options, and public bus routes also serve the area—just verify the stop in advance.

Arrival time & check-in: Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure to complete check-in, meet the crew, undergo any necessary ID verification, and participate in the safety briefing.

Required documents: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and your digital booking confirmation. Printed tickets are typically not required unless specified.

Puerto Calero

Puerto Calero offers an upscale and relaxed marina setting perfect for eco-friendly whale watching experiences. Its modern facilities and quieter ambiance make it ideal for small-group tours, including silent eco-catamaran trips. Always confirm your exact boarding dock in your ticket.

How to get there: The marina is best reached by taxi or rideshare, with ample parking available on site. If you’re staying nearby, a short walk is also an option.

Arrival time & check-in: Be sure to arrive 30–45 minutes ahead of departure. Check in with the operator’s crew, complete any ID verification, and listen to the brief safety instructions before boarding.

Required documents: A government-issued photo ID and your digital booking confirmation are required at check-in.

Know before you go on your whale watching experience

Tourists on a private sailboat tour for dolphin watching near coastal cliffs.
  • Operating hours: Tours typically run with morning departures between 9 and 10am, while sunset cruises typically depart between 6 and 6:30pm, depending on the season. 
  • Best time of day to go: Mornings usually offer calmer seas, while sunset trips provide a magical, scenic vibe. Do remember that sunset cruises aren’t ideal for whale and dolphin spotting; the morning tours are a better option if that’s your goal. 
  • Best season or month to visit: March through October provides optimal conditions with steady wildlife activity and clearer waters.
Yellow speedboat docked at marina, passengers boarding for Sunset Speedboat Dolphin Cruise.
  • Location: Whale watching tours in Lanzarote depart from several prominent marinas, including Puerto del Carmen and Puerto Calero, both of which are a mere 10-minute drive from each other. Others include pick-ups and drop-offs directly from your hotel. 
  • Address: Your exact departure point is provided in your booking confirmation. Look for details marking the designated marina dock or port entrance.
Tourists on a speedboat during a sunset dolphin cruise, with a guide steering the boat.
  • Physical effort: You won’t require much physical effort on your tour, as most of the activity is carried out while you’re seated. However, if you struggle with sea sickness, keep in mind that speedboat tours won’t be ideal; you’d be better off choosing a tour on an eco-catamaran. 
  • Weather dependency: Tours are subject to weather conditions. Rough seas or strong winds may lead to cancelled or rescheduled departures. Always review the forecast before booking your tickets. 
  • Age or participation constraints: All whale-watching tours in Lanzarote are open to guests of all ages, including children. However, keep in mind that kids must be under careful adult supervision at all times. 
  • Accessibility: While many boats accommodate families comfortably, they aren’t suited for guests bound to wheelchairs, those with limited mobility, and, in the case of speedboat tours, for pregnant women.

Tips to make your whale watching tour truly memorable 

  • Arriving 15–20 minutes before departure gives you ample time to check in at your marina, be it Puerto del Carmen or Puerto Calero. Early arrival allows you to choose the most comfortable seating, such as the outer deck or near the bow, giving you an unobstructed panoramic view of the Atlantic beyond.
  • Dress smart for shifting maritime weather. Even on sunny days, the Atlantic breeze over volcanic coastlines can be surprisingly cool. Pack layers, like a thermal shirt, windbreaker, and sturdy non-slip shoes, to keep yourself comfortable throughout your adventure. 
  • If you’re prone to seasickness, take your motion sickness medication or try ginger candies 30–60 minutes before boarding, so you enjoy the experience without unnecessary discomfort. However, if you’d rather not risk it, a calmer, catamaran tour is a safer bet.
  • Prepare your photography gear to capture every unforgettable moment. Bring along a waterproof phone case or a secured camera strap to protect your equipment from sea spray. 
  • Using a fast shutter setting can help freeze dynamic moments like a whale's tail or playful dolphins surfacing. But do remember to occasionally put your device down so you can fully immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere without missing any natural surprises.
  • Respect marine life and follow onboard guidelines to enhance the experience for everyone. Keep conversation low and avoid using flash photography or drones; these measures help minimize disturbing the wildlife in what’s essentially their home.

Frequently asked questions about Lanzarote whale watching tours

Most Lanzarote whale watching tours run between 2 and 3 hours, providing a compact yet immersive experience on the Atlantic. Some tours include extra stops and may extend up to 4 hours. These half-day adventures let you enjoy expert commentary, panoramic coastal views, and plenty of opportunities to spot marine life. Check your specific tour details for exact timing.