Los Cristianos: Whale Watching Cruise w/Swim Stop & Drinks

Tenerife Whale Watching Cruise with Swim Stop & Drinks: An Authentic Adventure at Sea

If you’re visiting Tenerife and craving a day of wildlife spotting, coastal scenery, and a touch of Viking fun, this whale watching cruise might just be your perfect match. Departing from Los Cristianos, this 3-hour tour offers a lively and engaging way to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment, enjoy a swim in the Atlantic, and soak up the stunning views along Tenerife’s southern coast.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of authentic wildlife encounters and the entertaining Viking-themed onboard activities. From expertly guided whale spotting to the chance to dip into the Atlantic, you’ll find plenty to love. That said, it’s worth noting that seasickness can affect some guests, so preparation is key if you’re sensitive to choppy waters. This tour is ideal for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting a fun, relaxed cruise with a dash of history and entertainment.

Key Points
– Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
– Scenic Coastlines: Beautiful views of Tenerife’s south coast, including cliffs and beaches.
– Swim Opportunity: Crystal-clear Atlantic waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
– Viking Themed Entertainment: Engaging crew and Viking face painting add a playful touch.
– All-Inclusive Drinks: Beer, wine, and soft drinks available throughout the trip.
– Family Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most guests, with wheelchair accessibility and family-oriented activities.

An Authentic Look at the Tenerife Whale Watching Cruise

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances wildlife, scenery, and lively onboard entertainment. The vessel, Ragnarok, is a Viking-themed ship that adds a unique layer of fun to the journey. Setting sail from Los Cristianos harbor, the cruise heads into waters famed for whale and dolphin sightings, so you can expect some truly memorable moments in the company of these gentle sea giants.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point — Puerto de Los Cristianos:
Your adventure begins at the bustling Los Cristianos harbor, where you’ll board the Viking ship Ragnarok. Arriving 15 minutes early is wise to avoid any last-minute rush or parking issues, especially given Tenerife’s busy port. The crew, including captain Gunner and helpful guides like Mathias, are quick to make you feel welcome and prepared.

Whale and Dolphin Watching:
Once underway, the focus quickly shifts to wildlife. The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera are well-known for frequent sightings, with dolphins often swimming close to the boat and whales sometimes breaching nearby. These animals tend to swim near the ship, giving fantastic photo opportunities and creating magical moments for all onboard. One reviewer described it as “absolutely brilliant,” emphasizing the crew’s skill at spotting and respecting the animals’ space.

Coastal Views and Scenic Stops:
After the wildlife excitement, the cruise continues along the coast, passing popular spots like Playa de Las Américas and Adeje. The ship then drops anchor near striking cliffs, beaches, and the iconic El Teide volcano. It’s an excellent chance for photos, with reviewers highlighting how the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile.

Swimming and Snorkeling:
The highlight for many is the swim stop in the Atlantic. With crystal-clear waters, this is a perfect spot to cool off, snorkel, or even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle, as some guests have reported. The crew provides life jackets and safety briefings, making it accessible for most ages and fitness levels. Guests who have tried this mention it as a “highlight,” with one reviewer noting how great it was to “swim in the Atlantic Ocean for the first time.”

Onboard Snacks, Drinks, and Viking Fun:
Throughout the cruise, you can enjoy a good selection of drinks — beers, wines, and soft drinks are on tap, with some reviewers noting that the drink quality and variety add to the laid-back vibe. Food is available for purchase if you’re hungry, with the onboard bar and optional snacks satisfying most appetites. Kids and adults alike can get into the Viking spirit with face painting and photos, which adds a playful element to the trip.

What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Practicalities

The Ragnarok is designed for comfort, with clean restrooms onboard and a friendly crew ensuring your safety. The boat is wheelchair accessible, though the tour recommends using a manual wheelchair rather than an electric one for safety reasons. The group size is generally manageable, but some reviews mention it being slightly overbooked, leading to limited seating at times. Arriving early helps secure a good spot.

Timing is flexible, with departures around 3 hours and options for different start times. It’s a good idea to check availability in advance; the cruise can be canceled up to 24 hours prior with a full refund, offering peace of mind.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters and Respectful Observation

What sets this tour apart from many others is the crew’s emphasis on responsible wildlife watching. Guests have appreciated how the crew, including guides like Gunner and Mathias, keep a respectful distance from the animals, ensuring a positive experience for both visitors and marine life. One reviewer called the crew “fantastic hosts,” noting their attentiveness and ability to make everyone feel involved.

While sightings are not guaranteed, most guests report successful encounters with dolphins and whales. Several reviews mention seeing pilot whales and dolphins swimming close to the boat, with comments like “loads of dolphins,” and “pilot whales swimming in the ocean.” The crew is also attentive when animals are nearby, checking on guests and ensuring respectful observation.

The Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of drinks, the swimming stop, onboard entertainment, and the chance to see whales and dolphins, many find this tour to be very good value. Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism of the crew, the quality of the experience, and the fun atmosphere as reasons to consider it a worthwhile expense.

The price point is reasonable, especially when you factor in the drinks and the personalized attention from guides and crew. For families or groups looking for a memorable day on the water, this cruise offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This whale watching cruise is perfect if you want a relaxed, fun-filled adventure with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, scenic photos, and ocean swimming. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere but also appreciate respectful wildlife observation. The Viking theme, face painting, and onboard drinks make it especially appealing to children and those looking for a more engaging experience.

However, be mindful that the water can be choppy, and seasickness might be an issue for some. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions beforehand. The tour’s accessibility features make it a good choice for most guests, provided they’re comfortable with boat rides.

All in all, this cruise offers a combination of wildlife, scenery, entertainment, and relaxation that makes for a truly memorable day in Tenerife. Whether you’re eager to spot whales, take stunning photos, or just enjoy the sea breeze with a drink in hand, this tour ticks many boxes for an authentic and enjoyable experience.

FAQs

Is there a limit to how many people can join the cruise?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, some reviews mention the tour being slightly overbooked, so arriving early can help secure a good spot.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. These will help you stay comfortable and protected during the cruise.

Are food and drinks included?
Drinks such as beer, wine, and soft drinks are included throughout the voyage. Food is available for purchase on board if you’re hungry after the swim or wildlife spotting.

Can I book this tour if I have mobility challenges?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, but the tour recommends using a manual wheelchair rather than an electric one for safety reasons.

What if I don’t see any whales or dolphins?
Wildlife sightings depend on nature, but most guests do see dolphins and whales during the trip. If no animals are seen, you’re covered with a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The Viking-themed entertainment, face painting, and swimming stop make it popular with families. Just keep in mind seasickness precautions if needed.

How long does the tour last?
About 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other explorations on the island.

In summary, this Tenerife whale watching cruise offers an engaging mix of wildlife, scenic vistas, and onboard fun, all wrapped into a 3-hour adventure that’s suitable for most travelers seeking a memorable ocean day.