Dolphins plus snorkeling in one smooth outing. This catamaran cruise heads out from Puerto Base to scan the Atlantic for dolphins and whales, then anchors for a swim stop with complimentary soft drinks. It’s an easy half-day plan that mixes wildlife time with getting your feet wet.

I especially like the way the trip gives you multiple ways to see marine life: from the deck and through large glass panels below. I also like the simple value equation—masks are provided, and you’re not scrambling to find basic refreshments during the swim break.

One consideration: wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and if the crew needs extra time to find cetaceans, the on-water swim window can run shorter. If you’re prone to seasickness, keep that in mind too.

Key things I’d look for on this cruise

• Respectful dolphin viewing style: the crew tends to cruise calmly rather than chasing the animals.
• Glass-bottom marine viewing: you can scan underwater without suiting up first.
• Snorkeling in a small bay: the swim stop is the main “water time,” usually around an hour.
• Ocean breeze plus onboard fun: enjoy sailing views, then use the onboard toboggan slide if conditions allow.
• Soft drinks and water included for the swim: helpful when you’re out in the sun for hours.

From Puerto Rico to Puerto Base: the start of your Atlantic outing

Most days on Gran Canaria, you’re either doing a beach day or trying to squeeze in a sightseeing block. This cruise is the in-between that works well: you get a real ocean chunk of time without needing a car or a complicated schedule.

The day starts with pickup options from the area around Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, with transportation to the Puerto Base harbor (or you can choose the option without the shuttle bus to save money). From there, you board the catamaran and begin heading out into the Atlantic.

Why this matters: getting to the harbor is half the battle on tours like this. Here, the whole operation is set up so you show up, get on the boat, and spend your energy on the water—not hunting down instructions.

The catamaran setup: glass panels, deck views, and built-in comfort

This isn’t a tiny speedboat where everyone crowds the same spot. A catamaran gives you more breathing room, and the star feature is the chance to observe marine life through large glass panels below deck. If you’d rather not immediately jump in the water, you can still watch what’s happening underwater while you’re sailing.

On deck, you’ll get the classic “scan the horizon” dolphin-watching view. Below deck, the glass panels let you keep your eyes on the water column when visibility is good. Based on the way people describe the trip, it can be a real advantage when conditions are busy and you want options.

Small practical note: some people have pointed out that the glass can be a bit hazy from algae on certain days. If you’re planning to spend real time staring down, keep your expectations flexible and focus on using the deck too.

Searching for dolphins and whales: what that time feels like

The main goal is cetaceans in the wild—dolphins and whales—and the crew typically works hard to find them. You’re out for about two hours of marine life viewing while the boat scans likely areas near the coast of Gran Canaria.

This is one reason the tour can feel magical when it’s going well: when dolphins are nearby, they don’t just sit off in the distance. People describe groups swimming around and even alongside the boat for stretches of time. That’s the kind of encounter where you can finally stop searching and just watch.

Species you might see (not a promise, just what the trip is set up for):

• Dolphins (including types reported by past passengers)
• Pilot whales and minke whales
• Other marine life that can show up along the way, like turtles in some cases

The tradeoff is simple: you’re on the Atlantic, not a zoo. Sightings can take time, and the cruise doesn’t force the day to end on a fixed schedule if the crew is still actively searching. The operator flags that the swim time can be shorter if they need longer to locate wildlife.

The Taurito swim stop: snorkeling, swimming, and the rocks reality check

After the boat time searching for marine life, the cruise anchors for the Taurito snorkeling and swimming stop, about an hour on the plan. This is where you switch from watching to participating.

Snorkel masks are included, so you don’t have to pack gear. Bring your own towel, and apply sunscreen beforehand, because once you’re on the water, you’ll want to stay comfortable between dips.

Now, here’s the honest part: snorkeling can be hit-or-miss depending on visibility and the bottom. Some passengers describe it as fun but not always super clear underwater, and that the area can be deeper with more rock than coral. Translation: you may not come away memorizing underwater scenery. But you will likely come away with the memory of that moment when you’re floating above the Atlantic, surrounded by open water, while the boat waits nearby.

If you’re a strong swimmer, you’ll probably get more out of it. If you’re less confident, plan to stick closer to the safest entry spots and use the time for a relaxed swim rather than expecting a long, detailed snorkel circuit.

The onboard toboggan slide and the soft-drink payoff

The tour includes more than just a jump-in-and-go swim. There’s an onboard toboggan slide, and a lot of people treat it as the fun punctuation mark after the wildlife watching.

During the swim stop, you’ll also get soft drinks and water included. That’s not just a nice extra—it’s a practical recovery perk. Sun, saltwater, and exertion add up fast, and having something cold on hand makes the whole afternoon feel smoother.

One more note from past experiences: some people mention additional treats such as snacks or a small alcoholic shot. But since food and alcohol are not listed as included, I wouldn’t count on it as part of your planning. Treat it as bonus if it happens on your departure.

How seasickness risk plays into your comfort level

This cruise is a sailing day, so motion is part of the deal. The operator specifically says it’s not suitable for people prone to seasickness, and I’d take that seriously.

You’ll see how the crew responds when conditions are rough—people describe the team moving quickly to help when riders feel unwell. That’s reassuring, but it doesn’t change the bottom line: if you know your stomach doesn’t like choppy water, you’ll likely have a better day choosing a calmer activity.

If you’re on the fence, consider taking any prevention you’ve used before on boats (and if you’ve never tried it, don’t test it for the first time offshore).

Price and value: why $44 can still feel like a win

At about $44 per person for roughly 3.5 hours, the value comes from what’s included and what’s avoided.

You’re getting:

• Catamaran dolphin cruise
• A swim/snorkeling stop
• Snorkel mask use
• Soft drinks and water during the swim time

What you’re not getting:

• Food
• Alcohol

So the smart way to think about it is: this isn’t priced like a full meal outing. It’s priced like a half-day experience where your main “cost” is time outside and enjoying the ocean. If you plan your day with snacks or a light lunch before/after (instead of expecting the cruise to feed you), you’ll get the most bang for your buck.

Also, the shuttle pickup option matters. If you can easily reach the harbor area, the non-shuttle choice can tighten the value even more.

Who this tour fits best (and who should skip it)

This trip is a strong match if you want:

• Wildlife time with a good chance of real dolphin action
• A swim break without bringing a full snorkel kit
• A relaxing format with a guide on board in English and Spanish

It’s less of a fit if you:

• Are pregnant or have mobility needs that match the operator’s restrictions
• Use a wheelchair (not suitable for wheelchair users)
• Are very sensitive to sea motion

Practical tips so you enjoy the whole 3.5 hours

Here’s how I’d prep to make the day smoother, based on what the tour setup implies and what people have experienced.

Bring:

• Towel
• Sunscreen

Wear:

• Swimwear under clothes (this saves time once you’re anchored)
• Water shoes if you don’t love scrambling on rock (the swim area can be rocky)

Plan for:

• Limited underwater visibility at times, especially if the water is deep or the day is choppy
• A wildlife-first schedule, meaning swim time can flex depending on how quickly dolphins and whales are found

Know the rules:

• No touching marine life, and no feeding animals
• No fishing
• Avoid smoking
• Some personal items and activities are restricted for safety (and pets are not allowed except assistance dogs)

Should you book this dolphin watch cruise?

If you’re choosing between a “see dolphins if lucky” tour and a “swim is the main event” excursion, I think this one lands in a good middle ground. The best reason to book is the combination: real cetacean searching time plus a proper water stop, with masks and drinks included.

Book it if:

• You’re excited by the idea of dolphins coming up close rather than just distant sightings
• You like having two viewing modes: deck + glass-bottom panels
• You want a half-day plan that doesn’t require a car

Skip it (or choose something else) if:

• You’re prone to seasickness
• You need guaranteed underwater conditions for snorkeling
• You’re expecting a fixed, always-the-same schedule regardless of wildlife

FAQ

What animals are the cruise searching for?

The cruise is designed for dolphin and whale watching. It’s set up to look for dolphins and whales such as pilot whales and minke whales, plus other marine life.

Is dolphin or whale spotting guaranteed?

No. The cruise goes in search of cetaceans in their natural habitat, and sightings can’t be guaranteed.

How long is the cruise?

The total duration is about 3.5 hours.

How much time do I get for snorkeling and swimming?

You get a swimming stop of about 1 hour. If the crew needs extra time to find marine wildlife, that water time could be shorter.

What’s included in the price?

Included are the catamaran dolphin cruise, the swimming stop, use of a snorkel mask, and soft drinks and water during the swimming stop.

Do I get hotel pickup?

Pickup is optional. You can choose pickup from listed points, or you can book without the shuttle bus for a cheaper rate.

What should I bring, and what is not allowed?

Bring a towel and sunscreen. Smoking is not allowed, pets are not allowed (assistance dogs allowed), and there are restrictions like no touching marine life and no fishing.