If you’re thinking about a boat trip off the southern coast of Tenerife, this whale and dolphin watching cruise from Costa Adeje is a solid choice. It offers a chance to see some incredible marine life, take in stunning coastal scenery, and relax on deck with good food and drinks.
What we really like about this experience is the chance to spot pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment, which is always a thrill. Plus, the boat’s comfortable setup, with sun loungers and a friendly crew, makes the trip enjoyable from start to finish.
On the flip side, it’s worth noting that not everyone will see whales every time — sightings depend on luck and seasonality. Also, some might find the included food options a bit basic, but overall, it’s a well-organized trip that offers good value for the price.
It was a lovely 4.5‑hour trip. We arrived 30 minutes early and were among the first, so we managed to get a sunbed. We swam in a picturesque spot next to Los Gigantes and Masca. And we were very lucky with the whales — they spent plenty of time with us, showing themselves again and again.
Nice trip and wonderful moments with the team at the board of the catamaran.
Brilliant day. Been on these trips 4 or 5 times and this was by far the best
This cruise tends to suit travelers who love wildlife, scenic boat rides, and a relaxed day at sea. If you’re after an engaging, family-friendly adventure or just want to escape for a few hours and enjoy the ocean, it could be a perfect match.
- Key Points
- Setting Sail from Costa Adeje
- Wildlife Watching: What You Might See
- The Scenic Stops: Masca and Los Gigantes
- Food and Drinks on Board
- Comfort and Extras
- The Swimming Stop
- Pricing and Value
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Whale Watching Tours in Tenerife
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Tenerife
- More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
Key Points
- Wildlife sightings: Expect to see pilot whales, dolphins, and other species if luck is on your side.
- Comfort: The boat offers comfy sun loungers and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Food & drinks: Includes lunch, soft drinks, and beer, making the trip more enjoyable.
- Swim stop: You’ll get a chance to take a dip in clear waters near Los Gigantes.
- Duration & flexibility: It runs for around 4.5 hours with multiple start times.
- Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides explain the animals’ behaviors and migration.
Setting Sail from Costa Adeje
Starting in Costa Adeje, the cruise departs from either Dock 10 or 15 at Puerto Colón. This central location makes it easy to find, and the check-in process is straightforward. The trip lasts about four and a half hours, which strikes a good balance for a day trip — long enough to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery, but not so long that it drags.
Once onboard, the relaxed vibe takes over. You’ll find plenty of space to lounge, with sunbeds available for soaking up the sun. The crew is friendly and informative, sharing insights about whales, dolphins, and the local coastline, which enhances the experience.
The boat itself is a comfortable catamaran, well-equipped for wildlife watching and relaxing. The open deck allows for panoramic views of the ocean and cliffs, making it great for photos or just soaking in the scenery.
Everything from beginning to end was amazing, If the crew are reading this I was the guy who messed up the booking and had to leave quickly to catch my flight and I cannot thank you enough for helping me and my girlfriend get to our flight in time, you were all amazing! Comfortable ride, food was good, plenty of animals to see and all the crew were amazing.
Amazing, would go back just to do this again, the smaller boat was so much better! The staff onboard couldn’t have helped us more, they’re all amazing!
Very interesting and informative with pilot whale pod sighting, relaxing loungers and swim & food and drinks, excellent value for money and very much enjoyed by our family of 7, with loads of room to move around the boat
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Tenerife
Wildlife Watching: What You Might See
The main draw of this cruise is the chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Many reviews highlight how satisfying it is to see pilot whales and dolphins swimming alongside the boat. One reviewer mentioned, “Very interesting and informative with pilot whale pod sighting, relaxing loungers, and swim & food and drinks, excellent value for money.”
While sightings are generally good, some reviews note that whales aren’t guaranteed every trip — which is common with wildlife excursions. However, dolphins are almost always present, and the guides are skilled at maximizing your chances of seeing them.
The Scenic Stops: Masca and Los Gigantes
You’ll cruise past the famous cliffs of Los Gigantes, which are a stunning natural marvel. Many travelers love the photo ops here — dramatic, towering cliffs that seem to drop straight into the sea. The boat stops near these cliffs for a swim in the clear waters, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.
The trip also includes a scenic view of Masca from the water, giving you a unique angle of this picturesque village. While the tour doesn’t dock in Masca itself, seeing it from the sea provides a different appreciation of this charming spot.
Great experience. Loved the crew and captain, the really love their job. We have spotted dolphins and water turtles and took a swim in the sea. Overal a lovely memory for my daughter, mum and me. I will do it again, for sure.
Wonderful experience! They explained everything in English, Spanish, and German. The food was decent. The views – phenomenal. We rent a bed on the front of the boat and truly relaxed the entire time except when we were standing to look closer at all the dolphins and whales. Everything was amazing!
It was such an amazing experience, the ride was cool, drinks and Paella were good too and the staff was really friendly. We even had the chance to swim and to see some dolphins and small whales after. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to try it and would personally 100% do it again next time.
Food and Drinks on Board
Included in the cruise is a lunch along with soft drinks and beer. The reviews indicate that the food is generally good, with some mention of vegetarian and celiac options available if requested. The food adds a nice touch to the outing, especially after a swim or wildlife sighting.
However, a few travelers noted that the food options are simple — rice, meatballs, and basic drinks — but for many, it’s more than enough for a few hours at sea. The drinks, including beer and soft drinks, help keep everyone refreshed under the sun.
More Great Tours NearbyComfort and Extras
The boat’s design prioritizes relaxation, with plenty of space to lie back and enjoy the ride. Some travelers opt for extra comfort by booking a deluxe bed at the front for an additional fee, which many say is worth it for the view and comfort.
While sun loungers are available, they come at an extra cost if you want to reserve one in advance. Bring your own sun protection, sunglasses, and a hat — the Tenerife sun can be strong.
Everything was well planned. They considered our request for Vegan food also . Highly recommended.
A great adventure and an unforgettable experience. Professional service that takes care of you from the beginning to the end. It was great to see dolphins in their natural environment. I recommend to everyone. Greetings from Poland
We really enjoyed this cruise! Pick up/pick out, swimming, whales and dolphins watching, a paella and drinks – we were satisfied with everything and recommend to other people!
You can also read our reviews of more whale watching tours in Tenerife
The Swimming Stop
The highlight for many is the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters near Los Gigantes. The boat anchors for a while, allowing guests to dive in, snorkel, or just float and relax. Many reviews mention how refreshing and enjoyable this part of the trip is, especially on a warm day.
Pricing and Value
At around $68 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the inclusions — wildlife viewing, lunch, drinks, and a scenic boat ride. The reviews consistently praise the guides and crew for their professionalism and friendly attitude, which boosts the overall experience.
Comparing to other similar tours, this one strikes a balance between affordability and quality. The flexible start times and optional pickup from various locations add convenience, making it accessible for many travelers.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for wildlife lovers, sunbathers, and anyone looking for a relaxing day on the water. It’s also suited for those who want a mix of adventure and comfort, with opportunities to swim and enjoy scenic views. Families with older children will find it engaging, although the focus on wildlife might not appeal to very young kids.
It was amazing. Full day relaxing on the boat (we reserved for extra 20 euros on bed deluxe on the front of the boat, we comment to pay it, worth it) We relaxed, saw whales and dolphines we got a swim in a beautiful a Los gigantes clifs. Totally recommended.
The crew were fantastic, friendly and very knowledgeable
Got to be done when in Costa Adeje…so excited to see pilot whales and dolphins! Crew and refreshments fab too.
If you’re after a high-energy activity or a more luxurious experience, you might want to explore other options. But for a well-rounded, enjoyable day out with good chances of seeing dolphins and whales, this cruise hits the mark.
Final Thoughts
The Costa Adeje Masca and Los Gigantes whale watching cruise from Freebird Catamarans is a reliable choice for a memorable day at sea. The combination of wildlife sightings, scenic scenery, and onboard comfort makes it a popular pick among visitors. Most travelers leave with great memories and plenty of photos of whales, dolphins, and cliffs.
While the food isn’t gourmet, it’s plenty decent, and the drinks help keep everyone happy. The crew’s friendliness and knowledge shine through, making the experience feel personal rather than just a commercial tour.
If you’re looking for a balanced trip with reliable wildlife sightings, stunning coastal views, and a chance to relax and swim, this cruise could quite well be the highlight of your Tenerife trip.
Costa Adeje: Masca and Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise
"It was a lovely 4.5‑hour trip. We arrived 30 minutes early and were among the first, so we managed to get a sunbed. We swam in a picturesque spot..."
FAQ
How long does the cruise last?
The tour takes about 4.5 hours, providing enough time for wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and swimming.
What is included in the price?
You get a whale watching cruise, a guide, lunch, and drinks (soft drinks and beer). Pickup from selected locations is optional.
Can I see whales and dolphins?
Yes, most trips include sightings of pilot whales and dolphins. However, sightings depend on luck and seasonality, so they aren’t guaranteed.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Extra sun protection is recommended.
Are vegetarian and celiac options available?
Yes, food options for vegetarians and celiacs can be requested, ensuring everyone is catered for.
Is the trip suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in marine life and scenic views. Very young children should be considered based on their comfort with boat trips.
How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online and choose the pay later option, allowing flexibility. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Puerto Colón, Dock 10 or 15, and ends back at the same location.
What if I don’t see any whales?
Wildlife sightings are variable; some trips may not see whales, but dolphins are usually present, and the scenic ride still makes it worthwhile.
This cruise offers a well-rounded experience for anyone wanting to enjoy Tenerife’s marine life and rugged coastlines without overcomplicating things. It’s friendly, affordable, and reliably enjoyable — great for a memorable day on the water.
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