Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat

This speedboat tour from Los Gigantes offers a quick but memorable way to see whales, dolphins, and the dramatic scenery of Tenerife’s coast. At just around two hours, it’s a compact adventure that packs in wildlife encounters, breathtaking views, and a splash of fun. With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 660 reviews, this experience clearly hits the mark for many travelers.

What’s especially appealing is the chance to get close to marine mammals in their natural environment—something that’s often hard to do from larger, more crowded boats. The tour also includes a swim stop, giving you a refreshing break in crystal-clear waters, and sailing past the spectacular Los Gigantes cliffs makes for perfect photo opportunities. However, the short duration means you should be prepared for a quick-paced trip, and weather conditions can influence wildlife sightings.

This tour is ideal for those who love adventure and nature but want to keep things simple and affordable. It’s perfect if you’re after a snapshot of marine life and stunning scenery without committing to a long day at sea. Families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a fun, authentic experience should find this trip very appealing.

Key Points

• Wildlife guaranteed: The tour promises sightings of whales and dolphins, depending on sea conditions.
• Small group experience: The speedboat’s size (max 12 seats) offers a more intimate and personal adventure.
• Stunning scenery: Sail close to Los Gigantes cliffs and other high coastal formations, perfect for photos.
• Swim stop: Take a dip in clear, calm waters at a secluded bay—bring a towel and swimwear.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable skippers and crew enhance the journey with interesting facts and respectful marine practices.
• Great value: At $32 per person, this tour offers a lot of memorable moments for a reasonable price.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at the picturesque port of Los Gigantes. You’ll need to arrive 30 minutes early—timeliness is essential since late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling. The trip lasts approximately 2 hours, which makes it an ideal choice for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting a quick taste of Tenerife’s marine life.

The Itinerary in Depth

Once aboard the rigid inflatable speedboat, the thrill begins. These boats are known for their speed and maneuverability, allowing you to get close to the action without feeling cramped or overwhelmed. The skipper, often a local with a deep knowledge of the waters, takes you towards the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, recognized as the whale-watching capital of Europe.

The first part of the trip focuses on wildlife spotting. Although sightings are not 100% guaranteed, the majority of reviews suggest most guests are fortunate enough to see dolphins, pilot whales, or even larger whales occasionally. The guides are praised for their professionalism and passion, often explaining the behaviors you observe and sharing fun facts about the animals.

Watching Marine Life

Guests frequently mention how close they get to the marine mammals. One reviewer, Miheala, noted, “We saw the dolphins up close in their natural habitat,” emphasizing that the small boat size allows you to approach wildlife without disturbing them, unlike larger, noisier tours. The guides are conscious of not disturbing the animals, often turning off engines when whales or pods are near to avoid any stress.

The Spectacular Cliffs

Sailing past the Los Gigantes cliffs is a highlight. These towering 600-meter-high formations create a dramatic backdrop that’s impossible to ignore. Several reviews praised the views, with one traveler remarking, “The scenery of Los Gigantes was perfect,” adding to the visual appeal of the overall trip. The close proximity to these cliffs offers some fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the clear blue skies and the sunlight casting shadows on the cliffs.

The Swim Stop

One of the most appreciated parts of this tour is the stop for swimming. Depending on sea conditions and timing, you might anchor in a bay like Masca, Barranco Seco, or Juan López, where the water is crystal clear and inviting. Guests have enjoyed jumping into the Atlantic for a quick swim or simply floating in the calm waters. Remember to bring a towel, swimming gear, and possibly a waterproof camera to capture the moment. Reviewers like Stephen found this stop especially refreshing: “Pack a towel and wear swimming stuff if you fancy it.”

Return and Practicalities

After the swim, the boat heads back towards Los Gigantes, often passing close to the cliffs again for more photo opportunities. The entire trip ends where it started, with a sense of satisfaction from a well-organized, intimate excursion. The skipper and crew are often praised for their friendly attitude and respectful approach to wildlife.

The Value of This Tour

At only $32 per person, this trip is exceptionally good value. For that price, you get the thrill of a speedboat ride, the chance to see wild whales and dolphins in their natural environment, and a refreshing swim. Many reviews highlight that they came within 5 meters of whales or dolphins, which is a testament to the tour’s focus on close encounters.

While the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, the central departure point makes it easy to access from most accommodations in Los Gigantes. The small group size enhances the experience by reducing overcrowding and allowing more personalized interaction with the crew.

Why It’s Worth It

• The small, agile boat allows for closer wildlife encounters.
• The expert guides offer engaging commentary and are mindful of the animals’ well-being.
• The scenery, including towering cliffs and secluded bays, elevates the experience beyond just wildlife.
• The swimming stop offers a relaxing break and the chance to enjoy the Atlantic’s inviting waters.
• The price point makes this an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers seeking adventure.

Considerations

The primary caveat is that wildlife sightings are dependent on sea conditions. While most guests do see animals, the experience can vary, and there’s no guarantee of whales or dolphins appearing. Also, since the trip is only 2 hours, it’s a quick snapshot—if you’re eager for a more in-depth wildlife experience, longer tours might be worth considering.

Sea sickness can be an issue for some, especially in choppier waters. The smaller boat size might amplify this sensation for sensitive travelers. It’s advisable to bring motion sickness remedies if you’re prone.

Weather can also influence the scenery and wildlife. Overcast or windy days might result in fewer sightings, but the stunning cliffs are a constant visual highlight regardless of sea life.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for travelers who:

• Want a cost-effective, fun adventure with a high likelihood of wildlife sightings.
• Appreciate small-group experiences where they can get closer to the animals and scenery.
• Are interested in photo opportunities of whales, dolphins, and towering cliffs.
• Don’t mind a short, fast-paced trip and are prepared for weather variations.
• Seek a family-friendly activity, with the understanding that children over 2 years are allowed.
• Enjoy swimming in open waters and want a relaxed break during their day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, guests need to make their way to Los Gigantes port independently.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, with starting times subject to availability.

Are sightings guaranteed?
While most guests see whales and dolphins, sightings depend on sea conditions. The tour offers guaranteed sightings depending on the sea state.

Can pregnant women participate?
Yes, pregnant women are welcome but do so at their own risk.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera or phone. No glass objects are allowed on board.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years are welcome. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Will I get seasick?
Sea sickness can affect sensitive individuals; consider bringing remedies especially if the waters are choppy.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to combine adventure, wildlife, and stunning scenery at an affordable price, this speedboat tour from Los Gigantes hits the right notes. Its small size, knowledgeable guides, and guaranteed sightings make it a standout for those wanting an authentic marine experience without the fuss or expense of longer trips.

While weather and sea conditions influence the luck of wildlife sightings, most guests leave with memorable stories and spectacular photos. The included swim stop offers a perfect way to cool off and enjoy the Atlantic’s inviting waters. It’s a trip that balances fun and nature, suited for families, solo explorers, or anyone wanting a quick yet impactful taste of Tenerife’s marine world.

If you’re after a personalized adventure in a beautiful setting, this tour is well worth considering. Just arrive prepared, keep your expectations flexible, and get ready for a lively ride along Tenerife’s stunning coast.