Dolphin Watching and Whale Watching Experiences
Dive into the Magic: Experience Dolphin Sightseeing in Gran Canaria - Where Nature Meets Wonder!
Dolphin Watching in Gran Canaria: Best Tours & Boat Trips
Dolphin watching in Gran Canaria is one of the most popular and reliable marine experiences on the island.
Unlike whale sightings, which are less frequent, dolphins can be seen almost every day thanks to the deep Atlantic waters surrounding the island.
On this page, you can compare the best dolphin watching tours, understand what to expect, and choose the experience that suits you best.
Where to See Dolphins in Gran Canaria
The best dolphin watching tours in Gran Canaria depart from the south of the island, with Puerto Rico as the main departure point and Puerto de Mogán as a secondary location.
Dolphins are commonly found in a specific area of the Atlantic located around 2–3 nautical miles off the coast, between these two ports. This stretch of ocean is known for regular marine activity, making it one of the most reliable areas for dolphin sightings on the island.
What is the Probability of Seeing Dolphins in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria offers one of the highest chances of dolphin sightings in Europe.
Dolphins in this area are known to inhabit a well-defined zone located off the south-west coast of the island, just a few nautical miles from shore. Because they are territorial animals, they often approach boats that enter their area to observe what is happening around them.
For this reason, dolphin sightings are extremely frequent, with success rates reaching around 97% throughout the year. While sightings can never be fully guaranteed, most dolphin watching companies operate with high success rates and, in rare cases with no sightings, many offer a free return trip.
What to Expect During a Dolphin Watching Tour
Most dolphin watching tours in Gran Canaria usually last between 2 and 4 hours and depart from the south of the island. During the trip, the boat heads out into the open ocean, towards the areas where dolphins are most often spotted. It’s quite common to see them swimming close to the boat, especially once you reach their usual habitat.
Depending on the tour you choose, there may also be time for a short swim, along with drinks or snacks on board, and some beautiful views of the coastline along the way.
Best Times to Spot Marine Life in Gran Canaria
- Dolphins: Visible all year, making dolphin trips highly reliable.
- Whales: Occasional sightings, typically during migration seasons in spring and autumn.
Boat Tour Types
Which Dolphin Tour Should You Choose in Gran Canaria?
Not all dolphin tours in Gran Canaria are the same. Some are short and focused only on finding dolphins. Others are longer and include swimming, food, and time along the coast. Choosing the right one depends on what kind of experience you actually want.
Here’s a simple way to decide:
- If your main goal is to see dolphins: choose a 2-hour dolphin tour. These trips are designed to reach the dolphin area quickly and focus on sightings.
- If you want a more complete experience at sea: choose a 4-hour tour. These usually include swimming stops, food, and drinks after the dolphin search.
- If you prefer something quieter or more exclusive: choose a yacht or a smaller group experience. These are less crowded and more flexible.
What’s the Difference Between the Tours?
- 2-hour vs 4-hour tours: 2-hour tours are more direct and focused on dolphins while 4-hour tours include extra time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the coastline.
- Dolphin boats vs catamarans: not all catamarans are designed for dolphin watching. Some are focused on relaxation and may not reach the same offshore areas (3-4 miles by the coast).
- Shared vs private experiences: shared tours are more social and budget-friendly. Private or smaller group options are quieter and more flexible.
What Most People Get Wrong
Not every boat trip is a dolphin tour. Some tours look similar but are not designed for dolphin searching:
- Longer does not always mean better. If your only goal is to see dolphins, a 2-hour tour is often the best option. These trips are more direct and focused, and many of them offer a free return ticket if no dolphins are spotted.
- A 4-hour tour is only better if you actually want the extra time onboard.
- The cheapest option is not always the right one: choosing based only on price often leads to booking the wrong kind of experience.
Below you’ll find the most popular dolphin tours in Gran Canaria, each designed for a different type of experience.
Dolphin Watching Experiences
Glass Bottom Boat Dolphin Tour Gran Canaria
Set off on an unforgettable 2.5-hour Dolphin Search Tour aboard a glass-bottom boat, offering a front-row view of Gran Canaria’s vibrant marine life. With two daily departures from Puerto Rico and Friday departures from Puerto de Mogán, this tour guarantees a thrilling experience for all ages (We Guarantee You Will See Dolphins* or Whales (otherwise you will have a free ticket for a new trip).
€37 Adults - €27 Children - Baby 0-5 Free
2-Hour Catamaran Dolphin Tour Gran Canaria
Embark on an exciting 2-hour dolphin watching tour aboard a comfortable catamaran, designed for an unforgettable marine adventure. Departing daily from Puerto Rico, this tour offers breathtaking views, guaranteed dolphin sightings, and a soft drink included in the price. (We Guarantee You Will See Dolphins* (otherwise you will have a free ticket for a new trip)
€35 Adults - €22 Children - Baby 0-3 Free
Shared Yacht Dolphin Tour & Coastal Cruise
Escape the crowds and create lasting memories on this shared private yacht dolphin search experience. Book your 4-hour dolphin watching tour today and enjoy a day of luxury at sea!
€75 Adults - €60 Children (0-12 y.o.)
Multiacuatic Dolphin Safari Gran Canaria
Spot dolphins and whales with Multiacuatic Gran Canaria! Choose between a 2-hour tour dedicated to sighting or a 3-hour tour with a stop for swimming. Departures 3 times a day, with soft drinks included and free transport. Sighting guaranteed or repeat the tour at no cost. A safe and fun experience for the whole family!
€40 Adults - €25 Children - Baby 0-5 Free
4-Hour Supercat Dolphin Tour & Coast Cruise
Indulge in an amazing 4-hour catamaran tour aboard the Supercat Premium, Gran Canaria’s most spacious and comfortable vessel. This all-inclusive experience combines breathtaking ocean views, lunch, unlimited bar, refreshing swim stops, one free ride on the banana boat and water sports discount.
€64 Adults - €37 Children - Baby 0-3 Free
Supercat Dolphin Tour & Mogán Market Visit
Experience the magic of dolphin watching in Gran Canaria! Join our 5-hour tours with dolphin sightings and a visit to the vibrant Mogán Market, perfect for families, seniors, and those who love exploring local culture, traditional markets, and charming villages.
€40,00 Adults - €25,00 Children - Baby 0-3 Free
Looking for all excursions in Gran Canaria?
Explore our complete guide to compare the best tours and activities on the island.
Let customers speak for us
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I did the Buggy Pirates tour on 29th May and it was one of the most amazing and crazy experiences I have ever had! I enjoyed every single moment.from Flora & Anna Ireland 🇮🇪
The whole team was incredible — friendly, helpful and very supportive.
A special thank you to Alicia, who helped find my lost top that supports Irish Cancer. It means so much to me and I really appreciate her kindness and help.
Thank you Buggy Pirates for an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it!
Die Panorama Tour auf Gran Canaria war für uns ein absolut unvergessliches Erlebnis. Die Insel zeigt so viele unterschiedliche Landschaften und wunderschöne Aussichtspunkte – einfach traumhaft.
Ein ganz besonderes Dankeschön geht an unseren Reiseleiter Kevin. Mit seinem großen Wissen über die Insel, seiner offenen und humorvollen Art und den vielen interessanten Geschichten hat er die Tour wirklich besonders gemacht. Man merkt sofort, dass er seinen Job mit Leidenschaft macht. Wir haben viel gelernt, viel gelacht und uns die ganze Zeit sehr wohl gefühlt.
Die Tour war perfekt organisiert, abwechslungsreich und voller beeindruckender Eindrücke. Wer Gran Canaria wirklich kennenlernen möchte, sollte diese Panorama Tour unbedingt machen – am besten mit Kevin als Guide!
Vielen Dank für diesen wunderschönen Tag – wir werden ihn nicht vergessen.
As I said Marlieke was professional informative beyond asking more excellent service , the trip had excellent safe driver commentary was explanatory and in detail all thoroughly enjoyable
We booked the 2 hour Dolphin Search and Coast Tour on the Supercat Catamaran.
The supercat was comfortable and felt safe. The crew welcoming and helpful.
We left the coast and headed out to deeper water and then, as if by magic the dolphins appeared.
A couple swam close to the catamaran.
A short distance from the cat, on both sides were groups of dolphins
breaching in the water. One group was a nursery group.
We also saw flying fish and a roq whale.
A wonderful morning- we were so privileged.
Lo hemos pasado super fantastico: muchas gracias a todos y hasta la proxima 🚜🤠
Everything went to schedule. Trip was great. Driver was excellent and tour guide helpful and knowledgeable.
Amazing boat trip! 🐬 We saw dolphins and so many sea creatures—such a magical experience. We’re super happy and highly recommend it from the bottom of our hearts! 💙
Ich habe die Tour spontan gebucht. Wir waren zu Viert unterwegs. Meine Frau, ich und meine Töchter. Es war richtig cool. Wir hatten alle Spaß. Die Veranstalter haben super Stimmung gemacht. Wir waren zuerst in den Bergen unterwegs und haben die Insel erkundet. Dann kam ein Offroad Teil, der es echt in sich hatte. Die Buggys wurden an ihre Grenzen gebracht. Es war super cool und ich kann es auf jeden Fall weiter empfehlen.
We just finished a really wonderful jeep safari tour with Jer (Jeremy) in Gran Canaria. The scenery was breathtaking, there were a couple of lovely stops to take in the views and see a pretty in-land village, and above all Jer was incredibly knowledgeable and really friendly and fun. He really made the trip so enjoyable and we learnt so many interesting things about the island. We would definitely recommend taking one of these tours if you are staying on the island, especially if you can be lucky enough to get Jeremy as your guide too!
This is a great trip that takes you to some special, hidden towns in Gran Canaria. The journey is an adventure on twisty roads through interesting scenery and gives you the chance to see a side of the island many people miss. The team are great and do all they can to ensure you have a great day - an excellent trip - thank you!
4h30 de catamaran au top😍😍😍😍
Une super equipe, le repas très bon on recommande a 100% ce moment magique
Fue una excursión perfecta, para niños y mayores. La tripulación súper amable en todo momento. Vimos muchos más delfines de los que esperábamos. Un placer ver a animales en libertad.
Davvero ben organizzati e offrono tante avventure diverse per far conoscere l'isola. Grazie!
The trip to see the dolphins was absolutely wonderful. The weather was perfect—bright and clear, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. There were some waves out on the water, but the captain handled the boat really well and kept everything smooth and comfortable. Seeing the dolphins in their natural environment was amazing, and the whole outing felt both exciting and relaxing. It was definitely a memorable experience that I’d highly recommend.
The sea was a bit choppy but the captain negotiated it well. It was brilliant seeing the dolphins.
The crew were attentive and helpful. The lunch was okay but on the small size.
The rest of the cruise was lovely as it was around the coast so not so choppy.
Francesca in the shop in Mogan was very helpful and friendly
Recommend booking with them.
F.A.Q.
What Month is Better for Dolphin Watching in Gran Canaria?
Dolphin watching in Gran Canaria is a year-round activity, making it one of the island’s most popular attractions for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The island's favorable climate and rich marine biodiversity mean there are opportunities to spot dolphins at any time of the year.
While dolphins can be seen throughout the year, certain months tend to offer slightly better conditions for sightings due to calmer seas and an abundance of marine life. The spring and summer months (from April to October) are particularly popular, as the warm weather and clear waters create ideal conditions for dolphin activity and spotting. However, during the cooler months (from November to March), dolphins are still frequently seen, and many visitors enjoy the quieter atmosphere of the island at this time.
Where to See Dolphins in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria is one of the best destinations for dolphin watching, thanks to its rich marine biodiversity and the abundance of dolphins in the surrounding Atlantic waters. Here are the top locations and ways to experience these amazing creatures:
- Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria: This vibrant town on the southwest coast is the most popular starting point for dolphin-watching tours. Its calm waters and proximity to dolphin hotspots make it ideal for excursions. Most tours here use specialized boats equipped for safe and respectful encounters with marine life, offering a high chance of sightings.
- Mogàn: Known as “Little Venice” for its picturesque canals, Mogán is not only charming but also offers excellent access to dolphin habitats. Some smaller boat tours depart from this area, perfect for those seeking a more intimate experience.
- Offshore Atlantic Waters: Dolphins in Gran Canaria are often found in the deeper waters a few kilometers off the coast. Boat tours will take you to these areas, where you can see pods of dolphins swimming, jumping, and playing in their natural habitat.
What Dolphins Can You Spot?
Gran Canaria is home to several species of dolphins, including:
- Common Dolphins: Playful and curious, they are often seen in large groups.
- Bottlenose Dolphins: Known for their intelligence and acrobatics, these are among the most frequently spotted species.
- Atlantic Spotted Dolphins: Beautifully patterned, they are often seen during warmer months.
Tips For Un Unforgettable Experience
- Book a reputable tour: Choose eco-friendly operators who prioritize the welfare of marine life.
- Check the weather: Calm seas enhance the chances of spotting dolphins and make the trip more enjoyable.
- Bring essentials: Sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are must-haves for capturing memories of your adventure.
PS: If you’re prone to seasickness or unsure, we recommend taking a remedy to fully enjoy the experience
Dolphin Trip Experiences
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SuperCat – Rejs z Delfinami i Wybrzeżem (4h)
Cena regularna Od €0,00 EURCena regularnaCena jednostkowa na -
Wycieczka na poszukiwanie delfinów - Łódź ze szklanym dnem (2,5 godziny)
Cena regularna Od €0,00 EURCena regularnaCena jednostkowa na€0,00 EURCena sprzedaży Od €0,00 EUR -
Poszukiwanie Delfinów i Wycieczka po Wybrzeżu (2 godz.)
Cena regularna Od €0,00 EURCena regularnaCena jednostkowa na€0,00 EURCena sprzedaży Od €0,00 EUR -
Wspólny Jacht do Oglądania Wielorybów i Delfinów
Cena regularna Od €20,00 EURCena regularnaCena jednostkowa na -
Dolphin Search & Mogan Market (5h)
Cena regularna Od €0,00 EURCena regularnaCena jednostkowa na€0,00 EURCena sprzedaży Od €0,00 EUR
Not sure which tour to choose?
Read our guide to the best dolphin tours in Gran Canaria 👇