Tenerife by boat: Viking cruises to watch dolphins and whales

When to go to Tenerife

Tenerife is a year-round destination: the coast ranges roughly from 18 °C in winter to 26 °C in summer, and the trade winds keep the climate mild. The south is much sunnier than the north, where trade-wind clouds gather on the slopes. Dolphins and pilot whales live off the south-west coast all year, but sightings are never guaranteed, and the sea can be choppier on some days. Occasional calima (Saharan dust) episodes can haze the sky and raise temperatures; check the AEMET forecast.

• High season

  December to March

  The coolest months, with coastal temperatures down to about 18 °C. Pack a light layer for the deck, and expect the odd breezy or cloudy day.

  €€€Usually the busiest and most expensive time for flights and stays, especially around Christmas: book ahead.

• Shoulder season

  April to June and October to November

  Warm, bright days in a mild climate: a good balance for a boat trip and for exploring the island.

  €€Mid-range prices and fewer crowds than in winter.

• Summer

  July to September

  The warmest months, with coastal temperatures up to about 26 °C and the best weather for a swim.

  €€Mid-range to high, with demand rising during the school holidays, especially in August.

Our pick: spring and autumn for mild weather and fair prices, or summer if you want the warmest swim. Whenever you come, book ahead in the school holidays.

How to get to Tenerife

Tenerife has two international airports, and Los Cristianos is on the south coast.

• ✈️

  By plane

  Tenerife Sur airport (TFS), in Granadilla de Abona, is the one for the south: it is about 20 minutes by road from Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas. Tenerife Norte (TFN) is near La Laguna and Santa Cruz, mainly for inter-island and mainland Spain flights; allow 45 minutes to an hour by motorway between north and south.

• 🚌

  By bus

  TITSA, the island’s public bus operator, links the south with Santa Cruz and the airport, including Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas. Lines and timetables change, so check them at titsa.com.

• 🚗

  By car or taxi

  The TF-1 motorway runs along the south coast to Los Cristianos. Parking near the port is limited and fills up at the weekend, so leave plenty of time or come by taxi or bus.

• ⚓

  To the boat

  Our cruises leave from Los Cristianos harbour, in the excursions area of the quay. The operator confirms the exact meeting point, and a map is below.