Dolphins, turtles, paella in one cruise. This 5-hour family-friendly catamaran from Corralejo is built around real wildlife-watching in the Canaries, with a good chance to see dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in the wild. I also like that you get more than a sit-and-stare boat ride: there’s a swim stop at the La Concha / Isla de Lobos area with snorkel gear plus kayak and paddleboard equipment, then a seafood paella lunch with unlimited drinks.

The main thing to consider is conditions at sea. The ride can be choppy at times, and people prone to seasickness (or anyone who can’t comfortably swim) really should rethink it; the tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, people with back problems, pregnant women, or those who get motion sickness easily.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Wildlife focus in the Canaries: dolphins, whales (including pilot whales), and sea turtles are part of the search.
• Active stop at La Concha / Isla de Lobos: snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard gear are included.
• Lunch and drinks are handled: seafood paella plus unlimited drinks on board.
• A small-catamaran feel: many groups report enough room to move around without feeling packed.
• Crew energy matters: guides and captains keep everyone informed and motivated during the hunt.

Corralejo Catamaran: Getting From Dock to Open Water

You start at the Corralejo pier, usually with hotel pickup in Corralejo in a Mercedes Vito Blanca (tell them your hotel name). Then it’s out onto the water on a catamaran, which is a smart choice for families because it feels stable and gives you access to the whole boat—sun deck time included.

You’re not just buying a boat ticket. This trip is scheduled like a mini program: wildlife search first, then a proper water break, then time to head back with sunset views when the timing lines up.

Dolphin and Whale Watching in the Canaries (What You Can Realistically Expect)

This is the heart of the day. The tour heads toward one of the best areas around the Canary Islands for cetaceans and other marine life, where you may see whales, pilot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. The ocean conditions and local ecosystem matter here, because the tour is designed to put you where the animals are most likely to be.

Here’s the honest expectation to carry with you: sightings are never guaranteed. Some days are amazing—people have reported pods with dozens of dolphins and even rare whale encounters like blue fin whales. Other days still deliver marine highlights even if whales or dolphins don’t show up, with sightings reported like turtles, flying fish, stingrays, and even sharks.

What I like about this tour is that it isn’t passive. The crew actively looks, adjusts, and keeps you updated once they find activity. If you’re going with kids, that matters, because the excitement builds with real guidance instead of waiting in silence.

The La Concha / Isla de Lobos Stop: Snorkel, Kayak, and SUP Time

After the wildlife portion, you go to the calm-water swim area in the La Concha zone on/near Isla de Lobos (the exact vibe can shift depending on tide). This is where the day changes from watching to doing.

The equipment is included:

• Snorkeling gear
• Kayak equipment
• Paddleboard / paddle surf equipment

Even if you don’t want to tackle the full list, you’ll get value from the snorkel time alone. Clear water and lots of fish make this feel like a real nature break instead of a rushed bathroom stop.

Two practical notes.

First, the water is the main “activity risk”: you’ll want swimwear ready and a towel handy.

Second, movement on the boat can be wet and splashy, so if you’re sensitive to that, plan to dress and position yourself accordingly.

Paella Lunch and Unlimited Drinks: More Than a Token Meal

Lunch is one of the best parts of the value. You get a seafood paella lunch served as part of the cruise day, and unlimited drinks are included.

I like that the meal fits the flow of the trip. It’s not an extra detour, and it doesn’t feel like you’re losing half a day to a restaurant stop. People have also reported vegetarian options being sorted out, so if your group includes someone who avoids seafood, you should still ask ahead just to line it up.

And yes—there’s a bit of fun on board. Some groups mention extra touches like a small shot offered at the end of the day, and the vibe tends to stay upbeat even when the sea is rolling.

Crew and Boat Atmosphere: Why BJ Fishing Feels Like a Real Day Out

The tour provider is BJ FISHING, and a consistent theme is that the crew keeps things organized and friendly. Names that show up in recent feedback include Borja, Jeronimo, and Salvatore, along with the rest of the team that handles safety briefings and wildlife spotting.

This matters for two reasons.

Safety first: you’ll get a briefing before you’re out in open water, and the crew tends to emphasize both participant care and respectful behavior around wildlife.

Then engagement: during the dolphin and whale search, guides typically keep you informed about what you might be seeing and what to look for next.

Group size also plays a role in comfort. Many people describe enough space to stretch out and enjoy the sun deck rather than feeling like you’re stuck shoulder-to-shoulder the entire time. One report put the group at around a dozen guests, with two staff members, which helps explain why the day feels more personal.

Weather, Seasickness, and the Choppy-Day Reality Check

Let’s talk about what can make or break your experience: sea conditions.

The itinerary is 5 hours total, and the ocean can be rougher or calmer depending on the day. Some riders report a choppy start or wet conditions in certain parts of the catamaran, then a calmer period once they reach the area where animals are active.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring the right plan. The tour notes that motion sickness medication is recommended for those susceptible, and it also doesn’t suit people with back problems. If you don’t meet the “easy on the water” profile, you’ll likely be happier choosing a different kind of excursion that stays closer to shore.

Also, this isn’t a swim-and-hope tour. It’s listed as not suitable for non-swimmers, so be honest about your comfort before you commit.

Price vs Value: Is $88 Good for What You Get?

At about $88 per person for a 5-hour cruise, the best way to judge value is what’s included—not what might be added later. Here’s what you get for the price:

• hotel pickup and drop-off in Corralejo
• catamaran trip
• live guide (English and Spanish)
• paella lunch
• unlimited drinks
• snorkeling equipment
• kayak and paddleboard equipment

So you’re paying once, then you’re not forced to spend extra for the water toys, the basic food stop, or the guide service that helps you find wildlife. If you’ve ever done these kinds of excursions where the “real” part of the activity is add-on pricing, this one feels more straightforward.

One more value point: even when dolphins or whales don’t show up, you still have a swim stop with included gear and a full lunch/drinks package. That reduces the chance of feeling like the day was a total letdown.

Practical Tips You’ll Actually Use

Bring the basics listed for the day: hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and any snacks you like. A waterproof bag is strongly worth it for phones and valuables—especially if you end up with spray.

Clothing matters too. Wear comfortable clothes and water-suitable shoes since you’ll go from boat to water activity and back. If you’re traveling with kids, pack for quick changes: wet happens.

And remember the simple wildlife rule: feeding animals isn’t allowed. Keep distance and let the crew handle the spotting.

Finally, check the weather before you leave. It’s not just for comfort; it directly affects ride smoothness and whether the swim conditions feel great.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This one is built for active families and animal lovers who don’t mind spending the day on the water.

It’s a good fit if you:

• want wildlife watching without giving up a swim stop
• like having included snorkeling, kayak, and paddleboard gear
• enjoy a guided day with live commentary in English or Spanish
• want a cruise that often feels more relaxed than the huge, crowded-boat style

It’s not a good fit if you:

• are a non-swimmer
• get seasick easily
• have significant back issues
• are pregnant
• are worried about choppy water and splashing

Book It or Skip It: My Quick Call

I’d book this cruise if you want a balanced day: wildlife spotting plus a real water-activity break plus lunch and drinks included. The $88 price point works best when you value the whole package, not just the chance at dolphins.

I’d think twice if seasickness is a big issue for you. The day can be fun and safe, but it’s still a 5-hour time commitment on open water, and comfort depends on conditions.

If your priority is animals and you like being hands-on at the swim stop, this is one of the more complete options out of Corralejo. Just go with realistic expectations about sightings, and plan to enjoy the day whether the sea puts on a show or not.

FAQ

Where does the tour start and how long is it?

The tour starts at the Corralejo pier and runs for about 5 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Corralejo. You’ll be picked up in a Mercedes Vito Blanca, and you should indicate your hotel name.

What animals might you see?

The tour focuses on cetaceans and marine life in the Canaries, with chances to see dolphins, whales (including pilot whales), and sea turtles.

What water activities are included at the stop?

At the swim stop near La Concha / Isla de Lobos, you can use included snorkeling equipment, kayak equipment, and paddleboard (paddle surf) equipment.

Is lunch included?

Yes. You’ll have a paella lunch on board, and unlimited drinks are included as well.

What language is the guide?

The live tour guide is available in English and Spanish.

What should I bring?

Bring hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks (optional), sunscreen, and water. A waterproof bag is also recommended for personal belongings.

Who shouldn’t take this tour?

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, non-swimmers, or people prone to seasickness.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is listed as wheelchair accessible.