Setting Sail on a Family Adventure

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I’m always on the lookout for activities that promise both excitement and education for the whole family. Our recent trip to Playa de las Américas led us to the Royal Delfin Dolphin & Whale Watching tour, a 4.5-hour journey that promised to be a highlight of our holiday. The anticipation was palpable as we boarded the spacious catamaran at Puerto Colón, ready to explore the southwest coast of Tenerife.

The catamaran itself was a marvel, with plenty of room for families, including stroller access, which is always a plus for those with little ones. The kids were thrilled to find the panoramic underwater windows, offering a unique view of the ocean’s depths. As we set sail, the crew, led by the multilingual Anya, began narrating the history of the coastline, weaving tales of the majestic Los Gigantes cliffs and the ancient volcanic formations. It was a perfect blend of storytelling and sightseeing, keeping both the adults and children engaged.

A Splash of Adventure

Our first stop was the secluded Masca Bay, a hidden gem nestled beneath towering cliffs. Here, we anchored for a swim, and the kids couldn’t wait to jump into the inviting waters. I must admit, the sight of the volcanic ash on the water’s surface was a bit surprising at first, but knowing it wasn’t oil was reassuring. While the children splashed around, a delicious lunch was being prepared on board. The meal, consisting of meatballs, rice, coleslaw, and fresh fruit, was a delightful treat after our swim.

The real magic began as we ventured into deeper waters in search of the ocean’s most majestic inhabitants. The excitement on the boat was contagious as we spotted a pod of short-finned pilot whales. Seeing these magnificent creatures up close, especially the massive male and a mother with her calf, was a moment of pure wonder. The kids were in awe, and I found myself wiping away a tear, moved by the beauty of nature.

Dolphins and Delight

Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, a group of playful dolphins joined us, dancing in the waves created by the catamaran. Their acrobatics were a joy to watch, and the children were captivated by their playful antics. It was a reminder of the simple joys of life and the importance of preserving these natural habitats.

As we sailed back to Puerto Colón, the crew offered us the opportunity to purchase photos taken during the trip. While the prices were a bit steep, there was no pressure to buy, and it was a lovely way to capture the memories of a day well spent. For those considering this adventure, I highly recommend it. The combination of breathtaking scenery, educational narration, and the thrill of seeing whales and dolphins in their natural habitat makes it a must-do for families visiting Tenerife. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after the holiday ends.