Los Gigantes Whale Watching Charter by Sail Boat

When it comes to Tenerife adventures, few experiences rival the thrill of spotting whales and dolphins bobbing around the coast. The Los Gigantes Whale Watching Charter by Sail Boat offers a charming blend of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and relaxing sailing—all packed into a compact three-hour trip. With a stellar 5.0 rating from over 570 reviews, this tour is clearly a favorite among travelers, and for good reason.

What stands out most is the intimate small-group setting—with a maximum of just 10 guests—allowing for personalized attention and genuine encounters with marine life. You’ll get close to pilot whales, dolphins, and even turtles, all while enjoying the stunning backdrop of Los Gigantes’ towering cliffs. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling, wine, and delicious sandwiches makes this a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with comfort.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour starts early, and parking can be tight, so planning your arrival is wise. It’s ideal for travelers who seek authentic wildlife sightings, scenic sailing, and a less crowded, more personal vibe. If you’re after a fun, educational, and memorable day on the water, this trip will likely tick all your boxes.

Key Points

• Small-group sailing keeps the experience intimate and engaging.
• Wildlife sightings include pilot whales, dolphins, and turtles, often seen up close.
• Snorkeling in secluded coves offers a peaceful and scenic swimming spot.
• Inclusive food and drinks—wine, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and sandwiches—add value.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing the experience.
• Perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed day at sea.

Discovering the Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point & Overall Atmosphere
The tour departs from Third Element Charters, located at Calle Poblado Marinero in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, an easy spot near public transportation. The boat itself is a Bavaria Cruiser 45, built in 2012, offering comfortable sunbeds on the bow and ample space for a maximum of 10 guests. This small size is meant to foster a laid-back, personal vibe—something many travelers appreciate after crowded boat trips.

Los Gigantes Cliffs & Wildlife Watching (2 hours)
The first leg of the trip involves sailing around the spectacular Cliffs of Los Gigantes. These towering natural formations, stretching up to 600 meters, offer one of Tenerife’s most iconic vistas. During this part, guides like David and Eileen—who are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach—share insights about the cliffs, marine wildlife, and local history.

It’s during this time that you’ll likely see pilot whales and dolphins—sometimes up close enough to feel like part of their pod. Reviewers mention seeing a family of bottle-nosed dolphins, along with rare Risso dolphins and even a turtle. The guides seem genuinely enthusiastic about marine conservation and often answer questions about the creatures you encounter. Emma_K even notes, “The staff on board were great. They knew so much about the wildlife and water,” which adds to the overall authenticity.

Snorkeling & Secluded Cove Stop
After wildlife spotting, the boat anchors at a lesser-known coastal cove for swimming and snorkeling. This is a highlight for many, offering a quiet, picturesque spot away from tourist-heavy areas. The reviews consistently mention the crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to see marine life while floating in tranquil surroundings. Kirsty_H describes it as “an excellent opportunity to swim with the marine creatures,” and adds that the experience was “very enjoyable.”

Lunch & Refreshments
No sailing trip is complete without good food, and this tour delivers on that front. Included are custom-made sandwiches (with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options), fresh fruit, and a generous selection of drinks—including cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Reviewers like Courtney_H appreciated the generous beverages, finding that they perfectly complemented the scenic voyage.

Return & Final Thoughts
As the trip ends, you’ll return to the starting point, feeling relaxed and filled with stories of marine encounters. Many guests, like Alexandra_B, mention that the small group size and knowledgeable crew made all the difference, turning what could be a simple boat ride into an immersive experience. The comfortable boat with ample space and friendly guides help make this a memorable outing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $86.89 per person, this experience is a standout for those seeking authentic wildlife sightings combined with scenic sailing. The price includes a well-rounded package of drinks, snacks, and a snorkeling stop—no hidden extras or expensive add-ons. Guides like Jaime and Eileen are praised for their warm hospitality and expertise, which significantly enhances the overall value.

The small-group format means you get more personalized attention, better chances of wildlife sightings, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the fact that the tour often gets booked 23 days in advance suggests it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a quality, intimate experience.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Personalized service with a maximum of 10 travelers ensures everyone feels included.
• Highly knowledgeable guides provide interesting facts and answer questions, making wildlife encounters more meaningful.
• Excellent wildlife sightings—pilot whales, dolphins, turtles—are common highlights, often seen up close.
• Comfortable and well-maintained boat with sunbeds and space for relaxing.
• Inclusive food and drinks add excellent value, especially the local wine and fresh sandwiches.
• Snorkeling in a secluded cove offers a peaceful swimming experience away from crowds.

Cons:

• The tour starts early, which might require some planning, especially if you’re staying far from the departure point.
• Parking can be limited, so arriving early or arranging transport is advisable.
• If weather conditions are poor, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, which is typical for outdoor activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want to enjoy close encounters with marine wildlife without the crowds or chaos of larger boats. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a relaxed, personalized vibe. Nature lovers who value educational commentary and scenic sailing will find this especially rewarding. The inclusion of snorkeling and a gourmet-style lunch makes it perfect for those wanting a full, satisfying experience on the water.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including wildlife watching, snorkeling, and the return journey.

What is included in the price?
You get wildlife encounters, snorkeling in a secluded cove, a light lunch with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and drinks like cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate. The small group size and relaxed pace make it a good family outing, especially with attentive guides.

Do I need to bring my own towel?
Towels are not included, so bringing one if you plan to swim is advisable.

What should I wear?
Beachwear or comfortable clothing, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen, are recommended. Bring layers if you’re sensitive to cooler breezes on the water.

Are there vegan or gluten-free food options?
Yes, the sandwiches are made to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences.

What kind of boat is used?
The trip is aboard a Bavaria Cruiser 45, known for its stability, comfort, and sunbathing space.

Is parking available?
Parking is near the meeting point but can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled for poor weather, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the Los Gigantes Whale Watching Charter by Sail Boat offers a wonderful mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and genuine hospitality. The small group size makes it a more personal journey, giving you better chances for sightings and meaningful interactions with guides like David and Eileen. The inclusion of snorkeling, drinks, and a tasty lunch means you get great value for your money, especially considering the high quality and intimate nature of the experience.

If you’re after a relaxed yet exciting day on the water, with ample opportunities to see pilot whales, dolphins, and turtles, this is a fantastic choice. The knowledgeable guides, stunning cliffs, and peaceful coves will leave you with memories to cherish—and maybe a few new marine friends, too.

In summary, this tour is perfect for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters, personalized service, and scenic sailing. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to experience Tenerife’s marine life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The excellent reviews and consistently high ratings suggest that this is a reliable, worthwhile adventure that will add a special highlight to your trip to Tenerife.