Gran Canaria Dolphins and Whales

Around 30 different species of whales and dolphins have been registered in total in Gran Canaria. Many of them are resident, which means they are at home here. Therefore, the Canary waters are among the areas with the highest whale and dolphin population in Europe. That is why; it is almost guaranteed that you will spot dolphins on a boat or catamaran trip on Gran Canaria.

Dolphin Watching Gran Canaria

The most common dolphin species in Gran Canaria are the bottlenose dolphins, the common dolphin, the kingfisher dolphin and the Borneo dolphin. They all live permanently within the waters around the Canary archipelago and in large groups. Therefore, it is almost inevitable to encounter dolphins when you are on out on the sea on a boat trip. These lively and highly intelligent beings are generally open-minded and quite sociable. Therefore, it is not uncommon for them to approach your boat and to contact you in their very own way. They absolutely enjoy swimming with the bow wave, love to delight you with their acrobatic jumps and if you are lucky enough, you can even hear their typical dolphins’ sounds.

Whale Watching Gran Canaria

Sperm whales can grow up to 20 impressive meters in length and can go on prey for up to 35 minutes at a depth of almost 3 kilometers. When one of these colossi appears next to your boat, you will get to feel really small. But at the same time this instant will be one of the most uplifting moments of your life without any doubt. There are numerous other whale species such as rutting whales and killer whales that can be found here. Lately it is being reported again and again that orcas and blue whales are being spotted. Seeing the comparatively shy whales on a boat trip off the shores of Gran Canaria unfortunately is less likely than spotting dolphins. But countless people have already had the opportunity to see them and with a bit of luck you will do so too.

The Wellbeing of the Marine Mammals Comes First

If you set out on a dolphin tour from Puerto Rico to look for these stunning creatures off the coast of Gran Canaria, you will probably notice that some boats carry the seal “Barco Azul”, in English “Blue Boat”. The boat you board carries it too. This means that the operator has the appropriate license to perform the whales and dolphins search trips and that he adheres strictly to the legal provisions to ensure the protection of these marine mammals in Canary waters.

The set rules imply, among other things, that the boats can only approach the animals at a certain distance and can neither distress nor persecute them. Approach and interaction may only emanate from the animals themselves. It is also forbidden to feed them. And you are not allowed to swim with them either. These measures are designed to ensure that these marine animals can move freely in their own habitat and live in absolute freedom.