Whale watching in Tenerife: Facts that will make you want to book a boat right away

Tenerife attracts over 1.4 million whale and dolphin watchers annually, making it Europe's leading destination for cetacean encounters. This booming industry contributes approximately €42 million to the local economy, underscoring its significance to the island's tourism.

Tenerife proudly holds the title of Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site. The island follows strict environmental standards to ensure the protection of its marine life.

The island's warm, calm waters and unique underwater topography, with depths reaching up to 2,000 meters, create an ideal environment for marine life. These conditions make whale and dolphin sightings possible on 8 out of 10 days, offering enthusiasts nearly year-round opportunities.

Tenerife boasts one of the largest resident populations of short-finned pilot whales globally, with around 400 identified individuals. These whales are frequently seen on 99% of whale-watching tours, making them the stars of the show.

The southwest coast of Tenerife is Europe's largest mating ground for bottlenose dolphins. These playful acrobats are often spotted riding the bow waves of boats, showing off their signature smiles

While Tenerife is known for its resident species, it also serves as a migratory route for other cetaceans. Species such as sperm whales, fin whales, and even the elusive blue whale pass through the area during their migrations.

The Teno-Rasca Marine Strip is not just a haven for cetaceans; it’s also a sanctuary for other marine life. The warm, nutrient-rich waters are home to loggerhead and green turtles, various species of rays, and a plethora of fish species.

The Teno-Rasca Marine Strip is part of the Natura 2000 network, a European Union initiative to protect the most seriously threatened habitats and species across Europe. This designation ensures that human activities, including tourism, are managed to protect the marine environment.