Los Cristianos: Whale Watching Cruise w/Swim Stop & Drinks

If you’re heading to Tenerife and considering a sea adventure, the Whale Watching Cruise from Los Cristianos is one of those experiences that promises a mix of wildlife, scenic views, and a bit of fun. Offered by VIKING TENERIFE RAGNAROK SL, it’s especially popular for its friendly crew, the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, and the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic.

We’ve looked into the reviews, details, and what makes this tour tick — and here’s the scoop. What we love? The guaranteed sights of incredible marine creatures and the lively, immersive Viking theme that adds a playful touch. The only thing to keep in mind is that spotting whales isn’t always guaranteed — which is common with wildlife tours, so managing expectations is key.

If you enjoy boat trips, wildlife, a bit of adventure, and don’t mind a social atmosphere with drinks and entertainment, this cruise could be right up your alley. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are often a highlight, with frequent sightings of whales and dolphins.
• The scenic coastline of southern Tenerife offers great views of El Teide and the coastlines.
• The viking-themed entertainment adds a fun, memorable element.
• Swimming and snorkeling opportunities provide a refreshing break in the open ocean.
• Drinks are included, making it a laid-back social outing.
• The 3-hour duration is manageable and perfect for a half-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Whale Watching Cruise Unique?

This tour strikes a balance between adventure, relaxation, and entertainment. Starting from Los Cristianos harbor, you’ll hop aboard the Viking ship Ragnarok, transforming what could be a straightforward wildlife tour into an experience with a playful, thematic twist. Imagine a Viking-themed crew, face painting, and a lively atmosphere all set against the backdrop of Tenerife’s coast.

The core appeal? The chance to observe whales and dolphins swim close enough to the boat for great photos. Many reviews, like Lisa’s, call this trip “absolutely brilliant,” praising the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. Several reviewers mention the “great time” they had, with kids jumping into the sea and adults soaking up the sun and scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Los Cristianos Harbor

The adventure kicks off at the Puerto de Los Cristianos, close to the beach and easy to reach. You’re advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early to get settled and avoid any last-minute stress. Boarding is straightforward, with clear instructions and a friendly crew ready to welcome you aboard.

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Once at sea, the primary focus is wildlife spotting. The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera are known for their many resident dolphins and whales, and the experience is often magical. The boat might get close enough to observe these creatures in their natural environment, providing excellent photo ops.

Several reviews, like Amanda’s, highlight the crew’s attentiveness, especially when dealing with sea sickness. Even if you don’t manage to see whales, the possibility of dolphins swimming alongside the boat or surfacing nearby keeps the excitement high.

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Scenic Coastal Views

As the boat cruises along the coast, you’ll enjoy picturesque views of places like Playa de Las Américas, Adeje, and the iconic El Teide volcano. The ship’s vantage points make it easy to take in the landscape, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Swim and Snorkel Stop

After the wildlife viewing, the ship anchors near striking cliffs and beaches for a chance to swim or snorkel. The water is crystal clear, and many reviews mention the joy of jumping into the Atlantic Ocean — sometimes even spotting a sea turtle! Life jackets are provided, making it safer and more accessible.

This part of the trip is often the favorite for those who want a break from sitting and prefer a bit of active fun. It’s also a good opportunity for families or less experienced swimmers to enjoy the sea in a controlled environment.

Return to Los Cristianos

After about an hour of swimming, the boat heads back to port. The trip lasts around 3 hours, which is just enough time to feel you’ve had a full experience without it becoming overly long or tiring.

The Onboard Experience

Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with drinks flowing throughout the cruise. The tour includes beer, wine, and other beverages at no extra cost, which makes the trip feel more like a social outing. Food is available for purchase, with options like burgers and snacks, so you won’t go hungry if you choose to indulge.

A fun addition? The Viking face painting and themed entertainment. Several reviews mention how engaging the crew is, with plenty of jokes, antics, and opportunities to dress up or take photos. The vibe is lively but not chaotic, and everyone seems to agree that the crew’s professionalism adds a lot to the enjoyment.

The Value for Money

At around 35 euros per person, this cruise offers quite a bit of value. You get wildlife sightings, scenic views, swimming, drinks, and entertainment all in a comfortable 3-hour package. Many reviewers, like Cristian, point out that they feel they received “more than enough” for the price, especially with the included drinks and swimming opportunity.

While food isn’t included, the on-board bar offers snacks and meals at extra cost, which is typical for such tours. The overall price seems reasonable considering the range of activities and the quality of the crew.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers, especially those who enjoy being on the water, spotting wildlife, or simply want a fun, social outing. Families with older children will appreciate the swimming and the playful Viking theme, while adults looking for a relaxed day out will find plenty of entertainment and scenic beauty.

Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for those prone to seasickness, as some reviews mention choppier waters. The boat is wheelchair accessible, but electric wheelchairs might not be suitable for safety reasons.

If you’re after a memorable and lively experience, with a good chance of seeing whales and dolphins, this cruise hits many of the right notes.

The Bottom Line

For anyone seeking a combination of wildlife viewing, scenic cruising, and lively entertainment, this whale watching tour from Los Cristianos offers solid value. The friendly crew’s professionalism, the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, and the opportunity to cool off in the Atlantic make it a well-rounded choice.

It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends and want an activity that balances adventure with fun. The Viking theme adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it more than just a typical boat trip.

That said, don’t expect guaranteed whale sightings — wildlife can be unpredictable. But with the number of positive reviews praising the crew’s efforts and the overall experience, it’s clear this tour is a safe bet for a memorable day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, it’s best for children who are comfortable on boats and able to enjoy swimming or snorkeling. The Viking theme makes it fun for kids, especially with face painting and activities.

How long does the cruise last?
The trip lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable option for a half-day outing.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beer, wine, and other beverages are included throughout the cruise at no extra cost.

Can I buy food on board?
Food is available for purchase, with options like burgers and snacks.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, but electric wheelchairs might not be suitable for safety reasons.

What if I don’t see whales or dolphins?
Wildlife sightings depend on nature, so while sightings are common, they’re not guaranteed. Many reviews mention seeing dolphins or whales, but some note it’s a matter of luck.

What’s the best way to prepare for seasickness?
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand. The boat can be choppy, so staying in the middle might help.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine; just remember to bring sun protection and swim gear.

In essence, this whale watching cruise from Los Cristianos offers a good mix of wildlife, scenery, and fun. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a relaxed, social day on the water with a touch of Viking flair, and plenty of chances to create memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: