Exploring the Freebird Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Tour in Tenerife

If you’re looking to spend a relaxing afternoon on Tenerife’s waters, this catamaran cruise to Masca from the south sounds like a trip worth considering. It promises a combination of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a laid-back vibe that many travelers seem to appreciate. While it’s not a perfect tour, it offers enough highlights to make it a memorable part of your Tenerife itinerary.
What we love about this experience is how it offers stunning coastal scenery while giving you a real chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural environment. Plus, the fact that it includes lunch and drinks makes it quite convenient—no need to worry about packing snacks or finding a meal afterward. However, one important aspect to consider is that some guests have found the service to be inconsistent, with mixed reviews about crew engagement and food quality.
This tour is best suited for travelers who are keen on whale watching, enjoy relaxing boat trips, and want to see a different side of Tenerife’s coastline. If you’re not expecting luxury but rather an affordable, scenic outing with wildlife viewing, this cruise could fit your plans well.
Key Points

- Wildlife Viewing: Good chances to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy the dramatic Tenerife coast, especially around Los Gigantes cliffs.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Comfortable catamaran with sun beds and a shaded bar.
- Included Food & Drinks: Lunch, beer, sangria, water, and soft drinks are part of the package.
- Variable Service: Some reviews mention friendly staff, while others find crew engagement lacking.
- Great for Wildlife Enthusiasts: Especially those wanting a laid-back trip with potential animal sightings.
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What to Expect from the Itinerary

Start Point and Timing
The cruise departs from Porto Colon at around 11:20 am and lasts approximately 4 hours. It’s a good idea to arrive a little earlier if you want to settle in and get your spot. Since most travelers book about 18 days ahead, the tour seems popular but not overly crowded.
First Stop: Dolphin and Whale Watching
The core of this experience is the chance to see pilot whales and dolphins leaping and frolicking in their natural environment. Several reviews highlight how exciting and memorable these sightings can be. One traveler mentioned that the trip was “a bit different from the usual holiday resort boat trips,” with the highlight being the dolphins and pilot whales.
However, a few guests pointed out that sightings aren’t guaranteed—nature is unpredictable. Still, the opportunity is there, and the crew makes an effort to find these creatures, which adds to the thrill.
The Vista of Los Gigantes Cliffs
As the boat sails along, you’ll get to enjoy breathtaking views of Tenerife’s rugged coast, particularly the imposing Los Gigantes cliffs. This stretch of the journey offers great photo opportunities and a sense of the island’s dramatic landscape. Many reviews praise the views, describing them as “amazing” and “spectacular.”
Hoping to spot marine life? We've covered these other whale watching options in Tenerife
- No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first – we care
- Whale Watching Eco-Adventure from Costa Adeje
- Bonadea II Ecological Whale Watching, 2 hours
- 3-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching and Listening Tour
- 5 hrs. Watching and listening whales and dolphins visiting Los Gigantes
- Whale watching in Tenerife. Atlantic Eco Experience
Swimming at Masca Bay
After about 2 hours at sea, the boat drops anchor in Masca Bay—a picturesque spot perfect for a refreshing swim. The calm, clear waters invite you to dip in and cool off after the sunbathing and wildlife watching. Some reviewers, like one who called it “a fantastic experience,” appreciated getting the chance to swim next to the cliffs, which adds a real touch of adventure.
Lunch and Refreshments
The cruise offers lunch on board, which, depending on your experience, might be just okay or a bit underwhelming. One reviewer noted that the food was “a hard roll with cheese and ham,” and if you don’t eat meat, options might be limited unless specified beforehand.
Drinks include beer, sangria, water, and soft drinks, available at the shaded bar. While many travelers enjoy the drinks and relax on sun beds, some mention that the selection can be limited and sometimes the service slow or inconsistent.
The Experience: Pros and Cons

What Travelers Loved
Several reviews highlight good wildlife sightings, with some describing their trip as “amazing,” particularly praising the captain’s efforts and the crew’s friendliness. The opportunity to see dolphins and pilot whales in a natural setting, combined with the stunning coastal scenery, makes this a memorable outing. The included lunch and drinks add value, especially for those wanting a hassle-free experience.
Where the Tour Falls Short
Not all reviews are glowing. A few guests found the service less engaging and the food options limited, with one describing the food as “a hard roll with cheese and ham,” which may not please everyone. Some felt that the staff’s attitude was not as welcoming or attentive as they’d hoped, which can impact the overall experience. Plus, the availability of drinks was sometimes limited, which could be disappointing on a warm day.
Price and Value
At around $70.98 per person, the price seems reasonable considering the inclusions—a 4-hour cruise, lunch, drinks, and wildlife sightings. For many, this offers a good balance of relaxation and adventure. Yet, if you’re hoping for a gourmet meal or a more personalized service, this might not hit the mark.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise with wildlife sightings, this trip makes a good choice. It’s particularly suited for families or groups looking for a laid-back day on the water. Those who prioritize wildlife encounters, especially dolphin and whale watching, will find this experience worthwhile.
On the flip side, if you’re seeking luxury or gourmet dining, or have specific dietary restrictions, you may want to explore other options or prepare for some limitations. Also, keep in mind that sightings depend on luck and weather, which can vary.
Final Thoughts
This Freebird Catamaran Whale & Dolphin Tour offers a solid way to enjoy Tenerife’s coast from the water, with decent chances of seeing playful dolphins and majestic whales. The most appealing part is the combination of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation, all bundled into a manageable 4-hour trip.
The included lunch and drinks make it a convenient option, especially if you’re looking to unwind without fuss. However, service quality appears inconsistent, and the food might not excite everyone. Still, if you enjoy wildlife watching, scenic views, and a casual day at sea, this trip can deliver plenty of memorable moments.
For those who love nature and want to experience Tenerife from the water, it’s a good way to spend a few hours. Just keep expectations realistic, especially around sightings and service, and you’re likely to have an enjoyable day.
Exclusive Freebird Catamaran Whale & Dolphin to Masca From South
“Booked this through Jeanette at the kiosk who is amazing, not pushy, and friendly. We did the 4hour trip with hot food which was ok, drinks were li…”
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s generally family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy boat trips and wildlife spotting.
What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours from start to finish.
Are drinks included?
Yes, beer, sangria, water, and soft drinks are included in the price.
Do I need to bring my own food?
No, lunch is provided on board, but keep in mind that the options might be simple, like bread rolls with ham and cheese.
What should I wear?
Dress casually for warm weather—think shorts, t-shirts, and sun protection. Bring a hat and sunglasses for comfort.
How likely is it to see whales or dolphins?
While sightings are common and part of the experience, they’re not guaranteed since wildlife is unpredictable.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What if the weather is bad?
Trips can be canceled or rescheduled in poor weather conditions, but you should check the weather forecast and communicate with the provider if needed.
Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum group size is 30 travelers, ensuring a somewhat intimate experience.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Porto Colon in Tenerife.
If you’re after a laid-back, wildlife-focused adventure with scenic coastal views, this catamaran cruise is a practical choice. Just keep expectations balanced and enjoy the chance to see some incredible marine animals in the wild.
More Sailing Experiences in Tenerife
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
- Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Catamaran Tour with Drinks
- Los Cristianos: Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise with Swim
- Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling
- Tenerife: Sailing Excursion with Whale and Dolphin Watching
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Tenerife
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
- Tenerife: Puerto Colon Snorkel Safari by Speed Boat
- Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat
- Costa Adeje: Whale & Dolphin Submarine Vision Mini Cruise
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
- Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Catamaran Tour with Drinks
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Trip to Puerto de la Cruz
- Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike through the Taganana Valley – small group max. 10
- Tenerife : Olé Flamenco Show by Fran Chafino Ticket
- Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks
- Tenerife: Jet Ski Safari from Puerto Colón
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
More Tenerife experiences we've covered
- Tenerife: Trip to Puerto de la Cruz
- Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike through the Taganana Valley – small group max. 10
- Tenerife : Olé Flamenco Show by Fran Chafino Ticket
- Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks
- Tenerife: Jet Ski Safari from Puerto Colón
- Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)
- Tenerife: Scandal Dinner Show Entry Ticket and 5-Course Meal
- Tenerife: Scuba Dive & Fun, Discover the Magic of the Ocean
- Tenerife: Snorkeling Tour in a Marine Protected Area
- Tenerife: Puerto Colon Snorkel Safari by Speed Boat
- Tenerife: Photography Sessions – Families, Couples, Friends
- Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat



