The deep waters of south-west Gran Canaria are rich in cetaceans: resident bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales, plus passing species by season. Trips leave from the southern harbours — Puerto Rico, Puerto de Mogán, Arguineguín — and reach the area quickly.
What you'll see
- Bottlenose dolphin: pods that often come to the boat's bow.
- Short-finned pilot whale: resident, visible much of the year.
- Passing through (with luck): rorquals and other species during migration.
Dedicated watching trip
Trips dedicated to watching are the most direct option: they search for cetaceans with guides who know the area, many with a hydrophone to hear them. They usually last a few hours and leave from the south.
Spirit of the Sea: Gran Canaria dolphin and whale watching tourCheck availability →By catamaran, with a swim
If you want to add sea and relaxation, catamaran trips combine the watching with a swimming and snorkelling stop, and usually include food or drinks on board. A fuller plan to enjoy the day.
Premium excursion on a brand-new catamaran from Puerto RicoCheck availability →Watching boat or catamaran with a swim, seeing dolphins and pilot whales in the wild is one of those experiences you remember. Book a morning trip, when the sea is usually calmer, and bring sunscreen.