Adeje Classic Schooner: Whales, Lunch & Los Gigantes Cliffs

Adeje Classic Schooner: Whales, Lunch & Los Gigantes Cliffs

If you’re dreaming of a day at sea with the chance to spot playful dolphins, majestic whales, and stunning cliffside views, the Adeje Classic Schooner tour offers just that. This five-hour voyage from Costa Adeje is packed with opportunities for memorable marine life encounters, scenic vistas, and a laid-back atmosphere aboard a charming wooden schooner.

What really sets this experience apart is the traditional Arabian-style schooner—a vessel that adds a touch of romance and authenticity to your cruise. Plus, the inclusion of lunch with wine and soft drinks makes it a fantastic value for the price.

That said, it’s worth considering that sea conditions can influence the swim stop and sighting chances, which is true of any marine tour. This trip appeals most to families, couples, and anyone craving a relaxed day on the ocean with a good mix of wildlife, scenery, and good food.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are very likely thanks to Tenerife’s year-round whale and dolphin presence.
• The traditional schooner offers a special, nostalgic sailing experience that stands out.
• Inclusion of lunch, soft drinks, wine, and beer provides great value and convenience.
• Masca Bay swimming stop beneath Los Gigantes cliffs makes for an unforgettable dip.
• Family-friendly with safety equipment and life jackets available for children.
• Expert crew and guides are praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge.

An Authentic Sailing Adventure with Marine Highlights

This tour’s main attraction is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment—something that makes Tenerife a favorite for marine lovers. The journey begins aboard Shogun, a beautifully maintained, traditional wooden schooner that immediately sets a relaxed, inviting tone. It’s clear from the start that this isn’t just about ticking boxes but about truly experiencing the ocean.

The crew, including guides who speak multiple languages, are known for their friendly, attentive service and knowledge about marine life. Multiple reviews mention staff members like Andy, who go above and beyond—some even sharing tips on taxis or making sure children are comfortable. This personal touch enhances the sense of being on a genuine family-friendly adventure.

The Sighting Chances and Respect for Marine Life

The waters off Tenerife are home to resident pilot whales and a variety of dolphins that often make appearances within minutes of setting sail. The tour emphasizes respectful observation, ensuring that marine animals are left undisturbed. This commitment means you aren’t just hoping to see whales—you’re witnessing them in their natural habitat, with guides sharing insightful facts that make the experience both educational and fun.

While sightings are very likely, the tour doesn’t guarantee them—nature always has the final say. Several reviewers mention seeing dolphins up close, which adds to the magic. One guest simply said, “We saw dolphins and whales,” describing it as “brilliant.” Others highlight that dolphins often seem to play around the boat, creating perfect photo moments.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Boarding and Departure from Puerto Colón

The tour departs from Costa Adeje, with optional hotel pickup. The trip begins with a scenic coach ride along Tenerife’s southwest coast, taking around 2.5 hours. This section is mostly about setting the mood—cozy, with anticipation building for the ocean adventure ahead.

Marine Life Watching

Once aboard the Shogun, the crew sets sail along the calm waters, making the most of Tenerife’s year-round whale watching reputation. The guides share fun facts and keep everyone engaged, from children to adults. Expect to scan the horizon constantly—most trips see pilot whales and dolphins within minutes, which many reviewers found to be a highlight.

The Stop at Masca Bay

The next stop is the spectacular Masca Bay, a tiny, safe cove beneath the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear, warm waters, buoyed by life jackets and float aids provided for all ages. The scenery is breathtaking—imagine vertical cliffs over 600 meters tall framing a serene bay. Several reviews highlight how memorable this swim is, with one guest saying, “The water was warm, and the view was incredible.”

Lunch and Onboard Relaxation

While anchored, a buffet lunch is served on deck. It features vegetable rice, coleslaw, meatballs in tomato sauce, fresh bread, and banana for dessert—a simple but tasty spread praised by many travelers. Soft drinks, water, wine, and beer are included, with reviews noting that the drinks flow freely, and the lively atmosphere is enhanced by music requests and friendly chatter.

Return Journey

As the schooner glides back towards Puerto Colón, there’s plenty of opportunity to relax, chat, or spot more dolphins. Several guests mention how the crew keeps everyone entertained and comfortable, ensuring the experience remains enjoyable even if marine sightings aren’t abundant.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

The vessel choice is a big plus—owning a classic, wooden schooner offers a more intimate, nostalgic feel compared to larger catamarans or speedboats. Many reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew, who create a warm, engaging environment, making the experience feel more like a day with friends than a generic tour.

The marine life sightings are genuinely impressive, especially for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Watching dolphins leap alongside the boat or whales surfacing calmly is a moment many describe as magical. The lunch on deck, with its varied menu and drinks, adds a relaxed, social element that many guests appreciate as good value.

The swimming stop in Masca Bay allows you to cool off in one of Tenerife’s most scenic spots. The water is usually warm and inviting, and for many, this is the highlight of the day, especially after a morning of sailing and wildlife watching.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers great value and a well-rounded experience, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. The 5-hour duration means you’ll need to be comfortable on the water for several hours, which might be challenging for those prone to seasickness. It’s recommended to take medication if you or your children are susceptible.

Sea conditions can influence the swim stop and sightings; if the sea is rough, the crew prioritizes safety, which might mean shorter swims or fewer marine encounters. Parking is limited near the departure point, so using the nearby paid parking is advisable.

The price of $64 per person is generally good value given what’s included—especially the lunch, drinks, and marine life experiences. Families praise the safety equipment and the crew’s attentiveness, making it suitable even for young children.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a lovely balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. The combination of wildlife viewing, the iconic cliffs of Los Gigantes, and a laid-back sailing atmosphere makes it ideal for those looking to enjoy Tenerife’s marine environment without rushing.

It’s especially suited for families, couples, and anyone who appreciates a good story and a scenic cruise. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, and the chance to swim in Masca Bay make it a package that offers strong value for the experience provided.

If you’re after a memorable day at sea with a friendly crew and stunning views, this trip will likely meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them.

FAQ

Will we definitely see whales or dolphins?
Sightings are very probable, as pilot whales live year-round in these waters, but since it’s nature, there are no guarantees. Many reviewers have seen dolphins and whales on their trips.

Can children swim during the stop?
Yes, swimming is optional, and life jackets and float aids are provided for all ages. The crew is attentive, and the waters are usually warm and inviting.

Is the boat safe for families?
Absolutely. The schooner is fully licensed, Blue-Flag certified, and equipped with all required safety gear. Children of all ages are welcome, and safety equipment is provided.

What languages does the crew speak?
The crew is multilingual, with guides speaking English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water and soft drinks are available throughout the cruise. Wine and beer are included during lunch, with options for purchase at other times.

How long is the coach transfer?
The transfer from select locations is about 2.5 hours each way, making for a comfortable journey along Tenerife’s scenic coast.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a light layer are recommended. Remember that sea breezes can feel cool, even on warm days.

Is there an option for pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if selected during booking, making the day even more hassle-free.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the 5-hour cruise, marine life watching, stop for swimming, onboard lunch with drinks, safety equipment, and insurance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation or changes are allowed up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

In The Sum Up

This Adeje Classic Schooner tour offers a wonderfully relaxed way to explore Tenerife’s marine world and majestic cliffs. The mix of wildlife, scenic views, and onboard dining creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to a variety of travelers.

Perfect for those craving an authentic sailing adventure, it’s especially suited for families, couples, and nature lovers eager to enjoy a day in the ocean without feeling rushed. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and the chance to spot dolphins and whales make it a memorable highlight of any Tenerife holiday.

While it depends on weather and sea conditions, the overall atmosphere and inclusions suggest you’re getting a good deal for what’s a fun, scenic, and wildlife-rich excursion. Prepare your camera, bring your appetite, and get ready for a day of oceanic magic.