Royal Delfin – 4’5H Dolphin & Whale Watching – Los Gigantes Masca – Lunch & Swim

If you’re looking for a balanced adventure that combines wildlife, stunning scenery, and a touch of relaxation, the Royal Delfin’s 4.5-hour dolphin and whale watching tour in Tenerife might just be your ideal outing. Departing from Puerto Colón, this trip offers a chance to see marine life in their natural habitat, enjoy panoramic views of the Los Gigantes cliffs, and take a refreshing dip in Masca Bay—all while indulging in a hearty onboard lunch.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the purpose-built catamaran’s underwater glass viewing deck, which provides a unique perspective on the marine creatures swimming beneath the surface. However, a few travelers note that wildlife sightings can be inconsistent, and the experience can vary depending on the day’s conditions.

This tour suits those who love wildlife encounters, scenic coastlines, and a laid-back day at sea. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation should find this experience well worth the price, especially given the inclusive nature of food, drinks, and swimming stops.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Excellent chance to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural environment.
• Underwater Views: The purpose-built catamaran features glass viewing windows, enhancing the experience.
• Food & Drinks: Enjoy a complimentary, tasty onboard lunch and unlimited drinks including beer and sangria.
• Swimming Opportunity: Stop in Masca Bay for a swim in warm, inviting waters.
• Scenic Highlights: Admire the impressive Los Gigantes cliffs along the coast.
• Group Size & Accessibility: The tour is capped at 200 travelers, with near public transportation access and service animals permitted.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Royal Delfin tour packs a lot into its 4.5-hour window, starting at 2:00 pm from the meeting point in Playa de la Américas. From the moment you board, you’ll notice the boat’s design—modern, spacious, and equipped with a glass-bottom viewing deck that promises the chance to watch marine life without even getting wet.

Departure and Coastal Cruising

As the boat pulls away from Puerto Colón, the excitement begins. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and multilingual skills, set a relaxed tone right away. From here, the tour heads southwest along the coast, passing renowned spots like Playa de las Américas before reaching the Los Gigantes cliffs. These towering rock formations are truly breathtaking and provide a stunning backdrop for your wildlife search.

Wildlife Spotting: Whales and Dolphins

The core of this trip is the chance to see whales and dolphins. According to reviews, sightings are possible year-round, and the experience can be quite magical. Some guests mention that the crew, including knowledgeable guides who are eager to share facts and answer questions, makes wildlife spotting more engaging. Expect to see bottlenose dolphins frequently and, depending on the day, whales like pilot whales or even turtles.

One reviewer, Immy_M, pointed out that the crew’s dedication to ensuring a great day out really shows, with the staff going the extra mile to find and showcase marine life. Conversely, a few guests, like Michael G, noted that wildlife sightings are sometimes limited; whales and dolphins may not be seen on every trip, but the scenic cruise and the crew’s efforts still make it worthwhile.

The Glass Viewing Deck & Underwater Experience

The purpose of the glass-bottom platform is to give you a peek beneath the surface. Many reviews highlight how impressive it is to see the marine creatures swimming just below your feet, especially during calm weather. This feature elevates the trip from just a standard whale watch to a more immersive experience.

Masca Bay Swimming Stop

Midway through, the boat anchors at Masca Bay for a swim. The water here is warm and inviting, and the bay’s scenic setting among cliffs is a highlight. Reviewers rave about how peaceful and spectacular the area is for a dip—some even say it’s the perfect spot to relax after the wildlife search.

Lunch & Refreshments

Lunch is served within the first hour of the journey, and it receives quite favorable remarks. The menu includes small sandwiches, and drinks are unlimited—beer, sangria, soft drinks, juice, and water. Several guests mention the quality and abundance of food, with Immy_M describing it as “tasty” and noting that “drinks were bottomless.”

The inclusive nature of food and beverages adds value to the overall experience, especially when considering the ticket price of approximately $69.39 per person. Given that many similar tours charge extra for meals, this all-in approach stands out.

Return to Shore

After your swim and lunch, the boat turns back toward Puerto Colón, with plenty of time to relax, chat, and enjoy the coastal views. Some reviews mention a lively atmosphere onboard, which adds to the enjoyment, while others appreciate the peaceful moments of scenic beauty.

The Value of This Experience

At around $69.39, the Royal Delfin tour offers a comprehensive package: wildlife sightings, scenic views of Los Gigantes, a swim in Masca Bay, and a substantial onboard meal with drinks. Compared to other similar tours, the all-in pricing with food and drinks included provides excellent value, especially for families or groups wanting a stress-free day out.

However, it’s worth noting that wildlife isn’t guaranteed every trip. Some reviewers, like Ahmad_T, expressed disappointment over limited sightings, though most still found the journey enjoyable for its scenery and atmosphere. The boat’s capacity of 200 travelers means it can get lively but still maintains a comfortable environment.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance (most trips are reserved 9 days ahead), especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat: The open deck exposure can lead to sunburns.
• Wear swimwear and bring a towel: The Masca Bay stop is perfect for a quick swim.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the boat.
• Prepare for potential motion: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who appreciate a mix of wildlife, scenic coastlines, and relaxed fun. It’s especially good for those who want a chance to see dolphins and whales in their open habitat, but also enjoy some beach downtime in Masca Bay. Families with children, couples on a romantic cruise, and solo explorers seeking a laid-back adventure will all find something to love here.

While wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, most guests leave with memorable photos and stories, thanks to the crew’s enthusiasm and the boat’s unique features. If you’re not overly concerned about spotting whales every single time but want a well-organized, lively, and enjoyable day on the water, this tour is a solid option.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In essence, the Royal Delfin’s 4.5-hour whale and dolphin watching tour offers a balance of adventure and relaxation that many travelers seek. With the chance to observe marine life in a natural setting, complemented by stunning coastal scenery and a comfortable boat equipped with special viewing features, it provides genuine value for the price. The inclusive lunch and unlimited drinks are an added bonus, making it a stress-free experience.

This tour is best suited for those who prioritize wildlife encounters but also appreciate a scenic, laid-back boat trip. If you’re after a fun, family-friendly outing that combines nature, good food, and beautiful views, you’ll likely enjoy this trip.

However, keep your expectations flexible—wildlife sightings can vary, but even if you don’t see as many whales or dolphins as hoped, the overall experience remains enjoyable thanks to the scenery, camaraderie, and comfort onboard.

FAQs

How long is the Royal Delfin tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, departing at 2:00 pm and returning to the meeting point in Playa de la Américas.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers whale and dolphin watching, a swim stop in Masca Bay, a courtesy lunch, unlimited alcoholic beverages (beer and sangria), soft drinks, water, snacks, and restroom facilities onboard.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is wildlife guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on the day’s conditions and marine activity. While many guests see dolphins and whales, some reviews mention limited sightings, which is common in wildlife tours.

Does the tour accommodate children or service animals?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed onboard, making it accessible for families with special needs.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Av. de Colón, 11, 38660 Playa de la Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in.

In summary, the Royal Delfin whale and dolphin cruise provides a well-rounded, enjoyable day at sea—perfect for wildlife lovers, scenic seekers, and anyone looking to relax while exploring Tenerife’s coast. The combination of marine life, stunning cliffs, and a friendly crew makes it a worthwhile choice, especially given the good value for the inclusive food and drinks. Just remember, patience is key for wildlife sightings, and the scenery alone is worth the trip!