Adeje Classic Schooner: Whales, Lunch & Los Gigantes Cliffs

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and want a relaxing, scenic day at sea, the Adeje Classic Schooner tour might just fit the bill.

This 5-hour excursion offers the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, enjoy stunning views of Los Gigantes cliffs, and indulge in a tasty onboard lunch—all aboard a charming traditional wooden schooner. It’s a trip that appeals to nature lovers, families, and anyone craving a laid-back day on the water.

What we love about this tour is how it combines wildlife spotting with spectacular scenery without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch, wine and beer during mealtime, and the relaxed vibe on a classic schooner really elevate the experience.

That said, it’s worth noting that, being an ocean adventure, there’s always a chance you might not see whales or dolphins on the day—nature isn’t guaranteed to cooperate.

Still, the overall atmosphere, friendly crew, and beautiful surroundings make this a solid choice for most travelers, especially those who enjoy gentle sailing and a good chance for spotting marine life.

For anyone considering this experience, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, are comfortable with some seasickness (or are willing to take precautions), and want a leisurely, family-friendly outing that doesn’t skimp on scenery or good food.

If you’re after a more active or fast-paced boat ride, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of picture-worthy moments, read on for a full breakdown.

Key Points

• Wildlife Watching: Excellent chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with resident pilot whales present year-round.
• Scenic Views: The towering Los Gigantes cliffs are a highlight, offering some of the most dramatic sea cliffs in the Canary Islands.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The traditional schooner provides a laid-back, friendly vibe ideal for families and couples alike.
• All-Inclusive Meal: The onboard buffet lunch, with soft drinks, wine, and beer, makes for a convenient and enjoyable social experience.
• Swimming Opportunity: A planned stop in Masca Bay allows for swimming or snorkeling in clear, warm waters.
• Value for Money: At around $64 per person, the tour offers a lot of appeal—combining wildlife, scenery, and food in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Puerto Colón

We loved the way this tour starts with a smooth, somewhat leisurely transfer from various pickup points or a meeting in Adeje. The vessel itself, the Shogun, is a traditional Arabian-style wooden schooner, which makes for a more charming and authentic sailing experience compared to modern motorboats.

The crew’s friendly attitude and the boat’s calm, stable ride make it accessible even for those prone to seasickness, although taking medication in advance is always worth considering if you’re sensitive.

Sailing along Tenerife’s southwest coast, you’ll notice how tranquil and inviting the waters are—great for spotting marine life. The crew is experienced and knowledgeable, often sharing fun facts and making the trip informative and engaging for all ages.

This aspect really stands out in reviews, with many travelers mentioning how friendly and attentive the crew are—like Alexander from the UK, who praised the crew’s “fantastic time” and highlighted the presence of pilot whales and other sea-life.

Wildlife Encounters: Whales and Dolphins

One of the main reasons most people book this tour is the chance to see whales and dolphins. Tenerife’s waters are home to resident pilot whales, making sightings quite likely and all-year-round. The crew keeps a sharp lookout, and most guests report seeing dolphins within minutes of setting sail.

Many reviews echo this; Lucy from the UK shared her excitement after spotting a family of dolphins and called the trip “the highlight of our holiday.”

However, as with all wildlife trips, sightings can never be guaranteed. Some days might be quieter than others, but the likelihood remains high, especially in these waters. The crew is respectful of the animals and observes them with care, which adds to the authenticity of the experience.

The Los Gigantes Cliffs and Masca Bay

Once past the wildlife spotting phase, the boat heads toward the spectacular Los Gigantes cliffs. These vertical walls, rising more than 600 meters from the ocean, are some of the most dramatic scenery in Tenerife.

Seeing them from the deck of the schooner is striking, and many reviews highlight how breathtaking the views are. The boat anchors in Masca Bay, a small, safe cove beneath these cliffs, for a swim or snorkel.

The swimming stop is usually in warm, clear waters, great for cooling off. The crew provides life jackets and float aids, ensuring everyone feels comfortable, from kids to adults. Aniko from Hungary appreciated the attentive staff and the “great fun” during the swim, although the actual experience depends on sea conditions—sometimes the weather might affect the safety or duration of the stop.

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Lunch and Drinks — A Social Highlight

A standout feature of this tour is the included buffet lunch served on deck. The menu includes vegetable rice, coleslaw, meatballs in tomato sauce, fresh bread, and banana for dessert. It’s simple, hearty, and satisfying, especially when paired with a glass of wine or a cold beer (included during lunch). The reviews love the quality of the food—many saying it exceeded expectations for a boat lunch.

Guests also enjoy unlimited soft drinks and water throughout the trip, making it easy to stay refreshed in Tenerife’s sun. Several reviewers, including Steve from the UK, appreciated the “great cocktails” and the availability of drinks during the sail back. The relaxed, social atmosphere during lunch—often accompanied by music and good company—adds a memorable touch.

The Return Journey

As the schooner makes its way back to Puerto Colón, many guests settle in for a gentle sail, often spotting more dolphins or enjoying the scenery. The crew’s attentiveness continues, with some offering photo opportunities or engaging with passengers. The overall mood is friendly and easygoing, which is exactly what most travelers seek in a day of leisure on the water.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts about 5 hours, with the actual time split between wildlife watching, swimming, and relaxing. Pickup options are available, or you can meet directly at Puerto Colón. The departure times vary, so checking availability in advance is wise.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the exact size isn't specified, tours on traditional schooners tend to be more intimate than large party boats. The reviews indicate a friendly, communal vibe—great for those who enjoy socializing in a laid-back setting.

Price and Overall Value

At $64 per person, this experience is quite competitive, especially considering the included lunch, drinks, and wildlife sightings. The reviews consistently mention how good the food and drinks are, and the quality of the crew’s service is often praised. It’s a solid investment for a memorable day on Tenerife’s waters.

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome, and life jackets are provided for all ages. The tour is family-friendly, with attentive staff who make sure the little ones are safe and involved. However, it’s best suited for families or travelers comfortable with being on a boat for several hours.

What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack sunglasses, a swimsuit, a towel, and sunscreen. The ocean breeze can be cool, even when sunny, so a light jacket or layers are helpful. If seasickness is a concern, consider taking medication beforehand.

Final Thoughts

The Adeje Classic Schooner tour offers a well-rounded, relaxing day at sea with plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and good food. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a friendly, informal atmosphere and enjoy being on the water without high-speed thrills or strenuous activities.

The combination of whale and dolphin spotting, the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes, and the delicious onboard lunch makes it a popular choice among travelers. Many reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and the enjoyable ambiance onboard, which is worth noting. It’s a practical, value-rich experience that can easily become a highlight of your Tenerife trip.

If you’re after a memorable day of nature, scenic views, and laid-back fun, this trip is likely to satisfy. Just keep in mind that wildlife sightings can vary, and weather conditions may influence your swim stop, but overall, it’s a dependable, enjoyable outing.

FAQ

Will we definitely see whales or dolphins?
Sightings are very likely, especially for dolphins that live year-round in these waters. However, since this is nature, there are no guarantees. Most guests do see dolphins, and many see whales too.

Can children swim during the stop?
Yes, swimming is optional. Life jackets and float aids are provided, and the crew pays attention to safety, making it suitable for kids who are comfortable in the water.

Is the boat safe for families?
Absolutely. The Shogun is fully licensed, Blue-Flag certified, and equipped with all required safety gear. The crew welcomes children of all ages and maintains a friendly, attentive environment.

What languages does the crew speak?
The crew speaks English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian, making communication easy for most travelers.

Are drinks included?
Water and soft drinks are available throughout the cruise. Wine and beer are served during lunch, and additional drinks can be purchased at other times.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a light jacket or layers. Seasickness medication might be helpful if you’re sensitive.

In all, this tour balances wildlife watching, stunning sights, and good company at a fair price. It’s a nice pick for those wanting a relaxed day on Tenerife’s waters with plenty to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here: