Watching and Listening Whales visiting Los Gigantes&Masca. Food&drinks included

Taking a boat tour in Tenerife, particularly one focused on whale and dolphin watching, is often highlighted as a must-do activity. From the moment you step aboard this half-day catamaran adventure, you’ll realize it’s designed to combine wildlife viewing with breathtaking scenery and relaxed fun. With a 5-hour duration, this tour promises a good balance of activity and leisure, making it a perfect escape from the more touristy spots.

What really stands out about this experience is the knowledgeable crew, who are praised for their friendly attitude and insightful commentary — and, of course, the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in a natural environment. One possible drawback? It’s a group activity, so if you’re looking for an intimate or private experience, it might not be your best fit. But for those who enjoy social, guided outings, this tour checks many boxes. This tour suits travelers wanting a combination of wildlife viewing, stunning coastal scenery, and fantastic value for the price.

Key Points

• Wildlife galore: Expect to see dolphins, pilot whales, and possibly sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Stunning scenery: The iconic Los Gigantes cliffs and Masca Bay are breathtaking photo stops.
• All-inclusive food and drinks: Enjoy traditional Canarian dishes like paella, along with fresh fruit, beer, water, and soft drinks.
• Comfortable and well-rated crew: Guides and staff are known for their friendliness and local knowledge.
• Leisure opportunities: Swim, snorkel (equipment optional and available for purchase), and sunbathe on deck.
• Great value: At around $68, this experience offers a lot for the price, especially considering the included meal and drinks.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Costa Adeje: Whale Watching in the Wild

Your day begins at Costa Adeje’s marina, with the departure scheduled for 10:30am. This early start is ideal as you’ll get a good stretch of the morning to observe marine life. The boat crew, including a skipper and two sailors, will set the tone with friendly, live commentary that doubles as a guide to what you’re seeing. Based on reviews, guides are regarded as knowledgeable and environmentally conscious, and they seem genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their insights.

Most travelers report seeing dolphins and pilot whales, with some lucky ones spotting turtles too. One reviewer, Devika_O, described the trip as “a great 5-hour trip” with plenty of dolphin and whale sightings—a highlight she emphasized. The crew’s attentiveness ensures everyone is comfortable, and they maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife, which is crucial for ethical wildlife viewing.

Los Gigantes Cliffs: Awe-Inspiring Natural Wonder

After about an hour of sailing, the boat approaches the spectacular Los Gigantes cliffs. These towering rock formations, rising sharply from the sea, are among Tenerife’s most iconic sights. The crew often points out interesting features and shares stories about their formation, making this a photogenic and educational stop. Many reviews note how impressed guests are by the scale and beauty of the cliffs.

Bay of Masca: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxing

The next stop is the tranquil Masca Bay, a highlight for many. The water here is described as crystal clear and perfect for a refreshing swim or just lounging in the sun. While snorkeling equipment can be purchased onboard, many guests enjoy wading into the calm waters or sunbathing on deck. The boat anchors here long enough to give you free time to relax or explore.

One reviewer mentioned that only two people can sit on the beanbags at a time, which can be a bit restrictive if you’re hoping for a cozy spot upfront. Still, the front-facing beanbags are considered a fantastic spot for relaxing and taking in the views.

Food & Drinks: A Genuine Canarian Feast

An aspect often praised is the onboard meal, including paella with chicken and vegetables, served with fresh fruit. The meal is complemented by white wine, beer, water, and soft drinks, making the trip feel quite indulgent. The food quality, however, varies slightly in reviews; some found the paella good but perhaps not gourmet, while others appreciated the generous servings.

The crew’s friendly service enhances the experience, with several reviews quoting how they made sure everyone was comfortable and well-fed. For those with dietary restrictions, a vegetarian option is available if advised when booking.

Return & Reflection

As the tour winds down, you’ll sail back along Tenerife’s south coast, feeling the Alisios winds on your skin. Many guests comment on how peaceful and scenic the return journey is, often with the crew playing music or engaging in light-hearted interactions. The entire trip, at around 5 hours, feels just right—enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This tour’s most lauded features are the combination of wildlife sightings and stunning scenery. The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly attitude seem to make a significant difference, with multiple reviews mentioning how helpful, entertaining, and environmentally conscious they are. The boat’s layout, especially the comfy beanbags and open deck space, invites relaxation and unobstructed views, which many find ideal for photography and just soaking in the surroundings.

The value for money is another strong point—at just over $68, travelers get a full afternoon of entertainment, a hearty meal, and the chance to see wildlife in the wild, all in a well-organized, safe environment.

That said, the experience isn’t without its minor drawbacks. The group size can be up to 74 travelers, so if you’re after an intimate setting, it might feel crowded at times. Also, the snorkeling gear is available for purchase, which might be a consideration if you’re keen to snorkel without extra costs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, and single travelers who want a relaxed, fun-filled day at sea. It’s particularly suited to those interested in marine wildlife and coastal scenery, as well as anyone who enjoys great-value, all-inclusive outings with food and drinks included. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat while also taking in Tenerife’s dramatic cliffs.

If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours with educational commentary, this crew’s knowledge will enhance your understanding of the local marine ecosystem. It also suits travelers looking for a comfortable, worry-free experience—everything is organized for you from the start, with optional snorkeling equipment available but not obligatory.

Final Thoughts

This whale-watching and coastal cruise in Tenerife offers a mix of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and relaxed leisure. The friendly, knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary make it a standout choice for those wanting to combine nature, comfort, and good value. The inclusion of a traditional Canarian lunch adds a cultural touch, rounding out what many see as an authentic and enjoyable experience.

While it might not be the perfect choice for those seeking intimate or private tours, it’s an excellent option for group travelers, families, or anyone wanting to tick off multiple highlights in one trip. The chance to see dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles in the wild, along with the awe-inspiring cliffs of Los Gigantes, makes this a truly memorable outing.

If you’re in Tenerife and want a fun, informative, and picture-perfect day at sea, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 10:30am and returning to Costa Adeje marina.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, a traditional paella meal, fresh fruit, white wine, beer, water, soft drinks, and all taxes and fees.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Snorkel equipment is available for purchase on board, but you can also simply swim or sunbathe at Masca Bay with no additional cost.

What wildlife might I see?
Most guests see dolphins and pilot whales, with some lucky travelers spotting sea turtles as well.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. The trip is generally family-friendly.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, towel, and perhaps some cash for extras like snorkel gear or souvenirs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In essence, this tour offers a delightful mix of wildlife, scenery, and local flavor. It’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting to experience Tenerife’s marine life with comfort and good company.