⚠️ Please note: permit status changes over time. Before booking, check our updated list of legally registered boats at our website.
Joining Bonadea II Diomedea for a whale watching tour in Tenerife, is an incredible experience you will not forget, combining science, sustainability and adventure in one to explore these beautiful creatures.
Tours are kept to a maximum of six passengers — intentionally small, so that every encounter feels personal and the impact on the marine environment stays minimal. The Diomedea was chosen specifically for low-impact ecotours, and the whole operation is fully authorised by the Canarian Government and the Ministry for Ecological Transition
A Different Way to Experience Whale Watching in Tenerife
Tenerife is one of Europe’s best spots for whale and dolphin watching, and the waters off the coast are home to resident populations of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins year-round. But on this particular trip, something rare happened — a group of sperm whale (cachalote in Spanish) made an appearance. These deep-diving ocean wanderers occasionally pass through Canarian waters, but sightings are uncommon, happening only a couple of times a year at most. Seeing one alongside the two resident species all at once was the kind of moment you genuinely don’t expect, and one that nobody on board will forget.
More Than Just Whale Watching
What made it even more special was the educational part. Certified marine expert and skipper Sergio has spent over 36 years navigating the southwest coast of Tenerife, and you feel that knowledge from the moment you step on board. Throughout the tour, Sergio explained everything — how deep sperm whales can dive, why they pass through, what drives their movements. But honestly, the moment that really got everyone was the underwater hydrophone. Hearing the actual clicks and whistles of the animals while watching them right there in front of you is something else entirely.
Sergio explained what each sound meant, answered every question anyone had, and made sure everyone left not just having seen something amazing but actually understanding it. Every guest also goes home with a species identification book — a lovely thing to keep and look back on.
Supporting Marine Research & Conservation
Bonadea II Diomedea goes well beyond tourism. The team collaborates actively with universities and organisations including Asociación Tonina, Angel Shark Project, and Innoceana on population monitoring and marine ecosystem research. On every trip, the crew collects plastic waste from the water, and they work with the Centro de Recuperación de Fauna Silvestre La Tahonilla on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles and seabirds.
Our time with Bonadea II Diomedea was one of those experiences that stays with you. Unhurried, deeply informed, and rooted in a genuine love for the ocean. If you’re looking for a sustainable whale watching experience in Tenerife that’s as educational as it is exciting, this is the one.
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Media communication & partnerships coordination: Aurora Bus
- Marine & coastal project manager: Daphne Geißen
- AI consultant: Sebastian Betz
- Media communication & partnerships coordination: Catarina Tuerlings Pires
Sustainable Development Associate: Claudia Scharff
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