Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat

If you’re dreaming of spotting dolphins, pilot whales, and even turtles in their natural habitat, this whale watching cruise off Tenerife’s southwest coast might just be your perfect match. The trip takes you from the charming port of Los Gigantes aboard a stylish sailing boat, offering not only wildlife encounters but also spectacular scenery and a taste of local hospitality.

What really makes this experience stand out is the small group setting, which means you’ll enjoy a more intimate and personalized adventure. Plus, the chance to raise the sails (if conditions allow), combined with the friendly crew’s expertise, creates a genuinely memorable day out at sea.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suited for travelers with mobility impairments, and you’ll need to bring your own towels and change of clothes if you plan to snorkel. Overall, it’s an excellent pick for those seeking a relaxing, educational, and scenic maritime adventure. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just after a scenic sailing experience with some fun in the water, this tour hits a lot of marks.

Key Points

• Wildlife spotting: Prime opportunity to see dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles in their natural environment.
• Small group vibe: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Scenic views: Stunning vistas of Los Gigantes cliffs from the water.
• Inclusive experience: Drinks, fresh fruit, homemade sandwiches, and snorkeling gear included.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable crew, often praised for their enthusiasm and wildlife expertise.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund and reserve with no upfront cost.

Detailed Review

An Authentic Marine Adventure from Los Gigantes

Starting at the Third Element Luxury Charters, this tour promises more than just a boat ride. It’s a genuine chance to witness marine life in their natural habitat, away from the crowds and commercialized boat tours. The sailing boat, often praised for its style and comfort, offers a cozy yet elegant setting. The crew, frequently commended for their friendliness and knowledge, make you feel like you’re exploring with friends rather than just passengers.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Start Point at Third Element: The journey kicks off at Pier 1 Mooring number 156, where you’ll meet your crew, typically including guides like Eileen and David, who are lauded for their multilingual skills and passion for marine conservation. Once on board, you’ll set sail across the Atlantic, heading towards the waters around Los Gigantes.

Wildlife Watching (Approx. 2 hours): The core of the experience is wildlife spotting. Guests universally praise the guides’ ability to locate dolphins and pilot whales, often approaching closely enough to see them without chasing. One reviewer fondly recalls a pod of pilot whales swimming alongside the boat, sometimes just meters away, including a tiny baby whale. The crew’s respect for the animals’ space means sightings are authentic and unspoiled by aggressive chasing.

Snorkeling and Swimming Break: After about two hours of marine watching, the boat anchors in a beautiful cove, where guests can jump into the clear waters for snorkeling or swimming. The reviews highlight this as a highlight, with colorful fish and calm waters creating perfect conditions for both novice and experienced swimmers.

Lunch and Relaxation: Returning to the boat, everyone is treated to freshly made sandwiches, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available — a thoughtful touch considering dietary needs. Drinks flow freely, with reviews mentioning the quality of cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks. The crew’s attention to providing a varied selection ensures everyone stays refreshed.

Return Journey with Scenic Views: As you head back to Los Gigantes, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the towering cliffs from the water, an experience that’s both awe-inspiring and peaceful. Many reviewers mention this part as a perfect moment for photos and reflection.

The Experience in Practice

The small group size (up to 10 people) enhances the feeling of an exclusive adventure. Guests can freely move around, ask questions, and enjoy the experience without feeling crowded. The guides’ knowledge, especially about marine wildlife and local geography, adds depth to the trip — many reviews laud their friendliness and ability to share interesting facts in multiple languages.

Price and Value

At $85 per person, this tour offers significant value, especially considering the inclusions — drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and a small-group environment. The reviews consistently mention the quality of the food and drinks, with some specifically praising the cava and homemade sandwiches. For those who love nature, animal encounters, and scenic sailing, it’s a reasonable price for a well-rounded experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to nature lovers, families with older children, and travelers who appreciate a relaxed, small-group environment. It’s great for those keen on wildlife, sailing enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to combine adventure with scenic beauty. The guides’ multilingual skills and the respectful approach to wildlife make it accessible and educational for diverse groups.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This whale watching cruise offers a genuine peek into the marine life of Tenerife, combined with beautiful scenery and comfortable, intimate surroundings. The knowledgeable guides, praised for their friendliness and professionalism, elevate the experience beyond mere wildlife spotting. The inclusion of snorkeling, drinks, and food enhances the value, making it more than just a boat ride.

If you’re after a small-group, respectful wildlife encounter with the comfort of good food and drinks, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly suitable if you enjoy scenic sailing, are interested in marine conservation, or want a memorable family-friendly adventure that doesn’t feel rushed or overcrowded.

However, travelers with mobility issues should note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with impairments, and you’ll need to bring your own towel and change of clothes if you plan to swim. Also, the experience depends on weather conditions, which could affect sightings or sailing conditions.

In summary, this trip provides a well-balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and comfort, all delivered with genuine enthusiasm and respect for nature. It’s a top-rated option that consistently earns praise for its authenticity, friendliness, and value.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, with the marine wildlife viewing segment around 2 hours. Check availability for specific departure times.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Third Element Luxury Charters, located at Pier 1 Mooring number 156 in Los Gigantes.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the whale watching cruise, time for swimming and snorkeling, drinks including cava, wine, beer, soft drinks, fresh fruit, homemade sandwiches, and snorkeling equipment.

Are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available?
Yes, the sandwiches are available in these options, making the tour accommodating for various dietary needs.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and generally, it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable in the water and on boats.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, comfortable and breathable clothing, and sun protection. Towels are not provided.

Will I see whales and dolphins?
While wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions, the crew is skilled at locating marine animals, and many guests report successful sightings of dolphins and pilot whales, sometimes very close to the boat.

This whale watching cruise is a well-loved, highly rated experience perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and scenic encounter with Tenerife’s marine life.