Private excursion in Los Acantilados de los Gigantes

An in-depth look at the Private Excursion in Los Acantilados de los Gigantes

If you’re seeking a more intimate way to experience Tenerife’s breathtaking coastline and marine life, the private whale watching tour offered by Picarus Sailing Club might just be the ticket. Promising a 3-hour journey that combines awe-inspiring natural scenery with the chance to spot dolphins and pilot whales in their natural habitat, this tour aims to deliver a personalized adventure.

What really stands out about this experience is the small group size—maxing out at nine travelers—and the dedicated attention from knowledgeable skippers and guides. With the boat equipped with both sunbathing and shaded areas, you can relax in comfort while soaking in the views of Los Gigantes Cliffs and the vibrant marine life.

However, potential participants should keep in mind that the tour relies heavily on good weather conditions and marine activity. As such, cancellations due to weather are possible but come with the reassurance of a full refund or rescheduling options. This excursion is ideal for travelers who value personalized service, love marine wildlife, and enjoy scenic boat trips in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 9 passengers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Wildlife Encounters: Main sightings include tropical pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, with seasonal variations possible.
• Stunning Views: The cliffs of Los Gigantes provide a dramatic backdrop, best appreciated from the water.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat has both sunbathing and shaded areas, plus onboard drinks and tapas for a leisurely experience.
• Flexible & Safe: Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, with weather-related cancellations fully refunded.
• Authentic Encounters: Reviewers highlight friendly guides, respectful wildlife approach, and shared moments over tapas.

The Experience: What to Expect

Departure and Initial Expectations

Starting from the Picarus Sailing Club in Los Gigantes, travelers can expect a smooth check-in process at the marina. The boat, which comfortably accommodates up to nine guests, is crewed by a skipper and guide who are dedicated to providing an engaging, respectful wildlife experience.

We loved the way the tour begins with a relaxed departure—no chaotic boarding or rush—just a calm cruise into waters where the marine action unfolds. The boat’s design caters to comfort with ample space for sunbathing and shaded areas, making it easy to switch between lounging and observing.

Whale Watching and Marine Life

Once underway, the main focus is spotting cetaceans. The guides have all the proper authorizations — including a blue flag certification — to observe these creatures responsibly. The most commonly seen animals are tropical pilot whales, which Tenerife hosts in one of the largest resident colonies in the world.

According to reviews, guests are often lucky enough to see these whales up close, with some even sharing that they saw pilot whales and enjoyed friendly interactions during the trip. One reviewer noted, “We’ve seen pilot whales and shared a very friendly moment around tapas,” emphasizing the personal, almost intimate nature of the wildlife encounters.

Bottlenose dolphins are also frequent visitors, and depending on the season, other species may be spotted. The guides’ expertise and local knowledge help maximize sightings, making each trip unpredictable but rewarding.

Scenic Stop at Los Gigantes Cliffs and Anchorage

After a good session of whale and dolphin spotting, the boat heads to the impressive Los Gigantes Cliffs. These volcanic giants rise dramatically from the ocean, creating a landscape that’s impossible to forget. The cliffs are a highlight, especially when viewed from the water, giving a true sense of their scale and power.

Depending on weather conditions, the boat anchors in nearby coves, where guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers shared that these moments are often relaxed and enjoyable, with the opportunity to cool off in crystal-clear waters.

Food, Drinks, and Leisure Time

One of the tour’s charming touches is the onboard tapas and drinks. While not an open bar, the selection includes fresh drinks (soft drinks, white wine, beer—though no white brands) and delicious snacks. Guests often mention that the tapas are tasty and plentiful enough to enjoy during the anchorage, making the experience feel more like a leisurely day out with friends rather than a typical tour.

Swimmers and snorkelers are encouraged to take advantage of the clear waters while the crew prepares more snacks and drinks. Reviewers appreciated the quality of the food and the friendly service, which added a special touch to the trip.

Overall Timing and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately three hours, an ideal duration that balances wildlife viewing with relaxation. The small group size ensures that everyone gets plenty of space and attention, and the crew’s focus on respectful wildlife viewing means you won’t feel rushed or crowded.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $758.43 for the entire group, this experience is priced higher than some shared tours but reflects the private, personalized nature of the excursion. For up to nine travelers, this translates to a competitive cost per person, especially given the exclusivity, personalized service, and the possibility of more intimate wildlife encounters.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness levels. Since it involves some swimming and boarding, those with mobility issues might want to check directly with the provider. The boat has accessible features, and the crew is known for friendly, accommodating service.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking is straightforward with instant confirmation, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the trip. Weather-dependent cancellations are fully refunded or can be rescheduled, providing peace of mind.

Meeting Point

The starting point is the Picarus Sailing Club at Puerto Deportivo in Los Gigantes, easily accessible via public transport or car.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly and professional guides, with one noting that explanations were given in French, making the experience more engaging for non-Spanish speakers. One traveler from Normandy shared that the approach to cetaceans was respectful, emphasizing the importance of responsible wildlife viewing.

Food and wine also get praise—guests enjoyed the tapas, which made the trip feel more like a social outing. The sharing of friendly moments over tapas created a warm, communal vibe, which many found memorable.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private whale watching trip in Los Acantilados de los Gigantes is perfect for travelers who prefer a small, intimate setting over large group tours. It’s an excellent choice for those keen on wildlife encounters in a respectful manner, especially if you love dolphins and whales.

The added benefit of relaxing in comfort with onboard snacks and drinks, combined with stunning views of Tenerife’s iconic cliffs, makes this a valuable experience for anyone wanting a personalized, scenic, and wildlife-rich outing.

If you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or a small group of friends who enjoy marine life and scenic boat rides, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic connection with nature.

FAQ

Is there a limit to the number of travelers?
Yes, the boat accommodates a maximum of 9 guests, making it a very exclusive experience.

What animals might I see?
Expect to see tropical pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins; seasonal variations mean other species could also be spotted.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the boat with skipper and guide, onboard drinks, tapas, and the marine wildlife viewing experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there any physical activity involved?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness as there may be some swimming and boarding involved, but it’s mostly relaxed.

Where do I meet the tour?
At the Picarus Sailing Club at Puerto Deportivo, Los Gigantes. The location is accessible by public transportation.

Are there any age restrictions?
The information doesn’t specify age limits, but the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Children and families are welcome, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

This whale watching tour in Tenerife offers a rare, personalized chance to see majestic cetaceans while enjoying the dramatic scenery of Los Gigantes. With friendly guides, excellent food, and the flexibility of a private experience, it’s a memorable way to connect with the ocean’s wonders—perfect for travelers who value genuine encounters over crowds.