See Dolphins in Lanzarote: The Best Boat Tours
Guide to the 3 best speedboat experiences from Puerto del Carmen
See the Top 3Looking for the perfect sunset photo or the adrenaline of seeing jumping dolphins? We have analyzed the three most popular “Biosfera Jet” departures. Compare and choose your ideal adventure.
The Best Dolphin Watching Excursions in Lanzarote
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1. 2-Hour Sunset Cruise with Drink
The perfect option to disconnect. Forget the pressure of searching for animals and focus on enjoying a glass of cold Cava or beer, ambient music, and the incredible colors of the sky over Puerto del Carmen and the volcanoes.
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2. Sunset & Dolphins: The Premium Experience
Why is it the favorite? Because it combines the best of both worlds. You have 2.5 hours to find pods of dolphins out at sea, and you return enjoying the magical “Golden Hour” for spectacular photos.
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3. Dolphin Mini Cruise (Day Option)
Ideal if you are going with small children or have a tight schedule. A dynamic excursion in broad daylight to see the seabed and the intense blue of the water. It is the only option that usually includes a stop for a dip.
Book Mini CruiseWhat is a dolphin watching tour in Lanzarote like?
Unlike dolphinariums, here we are talking about wildlife in its natural habitat. The excursions depart from Puerto del Carmen towards the marine corridor that separates Lanzarote from Fuerteventura, a privileged area of the Atlantic.
The full experience usually lasts between 90 minutes and 2.5 hours, and follows this dynamic:
Departure from the Port
The adventure begins at the Puerto del Carmen harbour. After boarding and receiving a brief safety briefing, the "Biosfera Jet" speedboat sets sail smoothly. The first few minutes are for enjoying the views of the receding coast and feeling the sea breeze.
The Active Search
This is where the type of boat makes the difference. The captain accelerates to head miles out to sea quickly. The crew uses binoculars and their knowledge of currents to track signs of activity. The excitement and adrenaline of scanning the horizon is a fundamental part of the experience.
The Respectful Encounter
Dolphins in sight! When a pod is located, the boat reduces speed to a minimum. The engines soften so as not to disturb. Often, it is the dolphins themselves who, curious about the wake, approach to play next to the hull. It is the moment to observe their behavior in freedom.
Panoramic Return
After the sighting, the course is set back to the coast. Depending on the chosen schedule, you will navigate under the radiant midday sun or enjoy the golden colors of the sunset over the volcanoes of the south of the island. It is the perfect time to relax and review the photos.
What species are seen on a boat tour in Lanzarote?
The waters surrounding Lanzarote are part of a crucial migratory corridor in the Atlantic. Although nature is unpredictable, these are the 4 most common species we usually find thanks to the richness of our seabeds.
● Very Common
Bottlenose Dolphin
This is the famous "Flipper". They are regular residents of the island, robust and dark grey. They tend to be very social and curious, often approaching the bow of the boat to play with the waves.
● Frequent
Common Dolphin
Smaller and more streamlined than the bottlenose. Distinguished by a characteristic yellowish patch on the sides ("hourglass"). They are extremely fast swimmers and usually move in large groups.
● Resident
Short-finned Pilot Whale
Also known as the pilot whale. They are large cetaceans, black in colour with a curved dorsal fin. Their behaviour is much calmer and slower, often floating on the surface.
● Occasional
Loggerhead Turtle
It's not just cetaceans. It is relatively common to spot loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) resting on the water's surface to warm up in the sun and breathe before returning to the depths.
Why is Lanzarote an ideal place to see dolphins in the wild?
It is no coincidence that the Canary Islands is the place in Europe with the greatest diversity of cetaceans. The combination of geological factors and government protection measures create the perfect ecosystem.
🌍 Biosphere Reserve
Since 1993, the entire island of Lanzarote has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This guarantees environmental protection levels and water quality superior to other tourist destinations.
Source: UNESCO🛡️ Protected SAC Area
The marine strip off Puerto del Carmen is part of the "Natura 2000 Network". They are Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) designated by the EU to protect vital habitats.
Source: Gov of Canary Islands🌊 Abyssal Depth
The volcanic origin of the island means the seabed drops to great depths (up to 2,000m) very close to the coast. This allows deep-sea species to approach the beaches.
📍 Atlantic Corridor
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura create a nutrient-rich natural channel. This "corridor" is a vital highway for the migration of large cetaceans and a feeding zone.
Always look for the "Blue Boat" badge
Whale watching in Spain is strictly regulated to protect the animals. Ensure you always navigate in authorised vessels with this flag, granted by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, which guarantees respectful and sustainable navigation.
View Official RegulationsTips for a perfect dolphin watching excursion
To ensure your only worry is enjoying the show, here are 4 key recommendations before boarding the Biosfera Jet.
Avoid Seasickness
The Atlantic can be choppy. If you are prone to seasickness, don't risk it: take a seasickness tablet (Biodramina) 30 minutes before setting sail. Once on the boat, it's too late.
The wind is deceptive
Even if it's hot on the beach, out at sea the thermal sensation drops due to the speed of the boat and the wind. Always bring a light jacket or windbreaker, especially on sunset departures.
Sun Protection x2
Seawater acts like a mirror, reflecting UV rays. The sun burns twice as fast on the boat. Use high factor sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and a cap (hold it tight!).
Prepare your camera
Dolphins are fast and unpredictable. Set your mobile or camera to "Burst Mode" and high shutter speed. If recording video, do it horizontally and hold the phone with two hands.
⚓ Captain's Note
Remember that we are in the middle of nature, not a zoo. Dolphins are wild and free animals. Although the success rate in Lanzarote is extremely high, patience and respect are your best allies. Enjoy the ride and the freedom of the ocean!