Costa Adeje: Masca and Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise

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.

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

• 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.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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 perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.

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.

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.

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Comfort 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.

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.

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.

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 — perfect for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: