Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural home while enjoying some of Tenerife’s most dramatic scenery, this speedboat tour from Los Gigantes might be just what you need. It’s a quick, lively way to get out on the water, and many previous visitors have praised the experience for its value and close-up wildlife encounters.

We love how intimate and flexible this trip feels, especially with the small boat size that allows you to get pretty close to the animals. Plus, the chance to see the impressive cliffs up close and take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters are definite highlights. On the flip side, just keep in mind that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed—nature can be unpredictable.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a cost-effective, fast-paced adventure with a high chance of wildlife sightings and scenic views. If you’re comfortable on the water and enjoy short, action-packed outings, this could be a great fit. Families with older kids, or anyone looking for a memorable marine encounter, will likely enjoy what’s on offer here.

• Guaranteed wildlife sightings depending on sea conditions, making this a promising trip if you hope to see whales and dolphins.
• The small speedboat allows for closer animal encounters and a more personal experience.
• Spectacular cliffs such as Los Gigantes and Masca are right beside you during the cruise.
• The tour includes a swimming stop in pristine waters, great for a quick dip or a splash in the Atlantic.
• At $32 per person, it offers good value for a two-hour trip with guaranteed fun.
• Keep in mind, sea conditions influence whether you see whales or dolphins, and no hotel pickup is included.

When thinking about a day on the water in Tenerife, this speedboat trip offers a lively, engaging way to connect with the ocean’s residents. From the moment you hop aboard at Los Gigantes port, you’re set for a fast-paced adventure that combines wildlife watching with some stunning scenery.

The itinerary is straightforward but well-paced. You start by heading out from the picturesque harbor, where the small, rigid inflatable boat (or “RIB”) immediately adds a sense of excitement. Because the boat is smaller, you’re able to get close to the whales and dolphins—many reviews mention how near the animals you were able to get, with sightings sometimes coming as close as five meters.

The Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary is the main hunting ground for marine mammals on this trip, and it’s known as the whale-watching capital of Europe. This means your chances of seeing whales like pilot whales or other species are quite high, especially if the sea is calm.

Many travelers note how communication and organization by the crew are excellent, helping to build trust that they’re doing their best to find wildlife.

Wildlife sightings depend heavily on sea conditions, so don’t be surprised if sightings are brief or if no whales are visible some days. Several reviews mention that while most guests see dolphins and pilot whales, there is no guarantee, but the effort and professionalism of the crew make the trip worthwhile even if wildlife is shy.

The scenery along the route is equally captivating. Cruising close to the 600-meter-high cliffs of Los Gigantes and Masca feels like being on a film set. Many reviewers have praised the views, describing them as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.” The boat’s speed allows you to get right beside these dramatic formations, which is a real treat for photography lovers.

The swim stop in a secluded bay is a highlight for many. The waters are described as crystal-clear, and some reviews mention how refreshing it is to jump in after the wildlife search. Remember to bring your towel and swim gear if this appeals to you—many say it’s a perfect way to cool off and relax after the excitement at sea.

Wildlife Encounters: Many reviews celebrate how close they got to whales and dolphins, with some coming within just a few meters of these gentle giants. The crew’s respect for the animals is evident; engines are turned off when whales are nearby, which is a big plus for eco-conscious travelers.

The Small Boat Experience: There’s a real intimacy here that larger boats can’t match. With only around 12 seats, everyone gets a good view, and it feels more like a private adventure than a crowded tour.

Stunning Scenery: Sailing beside the cliffs and into the bays offers constant beautiful vistas. The views of Los Gigantes and Masca are striking, making this trip a visual feast.

Value for Money: At about $32, this tour is hard to beat. For two hours of excitement, wildlife spotting, and scenic cruising, many find it offers excellent value—especially compared to bigger, more expensive tours that might not get you as close.

While the trip offers many positives, a few considerations are worth noting. Wildlife sightings, as with all nature tours, aren’t guaranteed, but the crew’s efforts and sea conditions play a big part. It’s worth being prepared for the possibility that you might not see whales or dolphins on some days.

The duration is relatively short—just two hours—so it’s a quick hit of adventure rather than a slow, leisurely tour. This makes it great for those with limited time but less ideal if you’re hoping for a full-day experience.

Weather can impact your experience. If it’s cloudy or windy, it might get a bit cooler, so bring a jumper or jacket, especially if you’re visiting during cooler months.

Lastly, no hotel pickup is included, so you’ll need to make your way to Los Gigantes port. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to plan for.

Based on reviews, this trip tends to impress with how well-organized, professional, and friendly the crew is. Many mention the guides who share facts about marine life, adding an educational element to the fun.

The small boat size really shines. Travelers say it feels more personal and allows for closer encounters with the animals. Several reviews highlight how the engines are turned off when whales are close, showing respect for the wildlife.

Satisfaction with the swimming stop is another common theme. Many guests appreciate the chance to jump into the pristine waters, and some mention the beautiful secluded bays they visited afterward.

Food and drinks aren’t part of this tour, but many reviews mention that the overall experience exceeds expectations, especially considering the price. If you’re into wildlife, scenic views, and a bit of adventure, this trip hits the sweet spot.

This speedboat trip appeals most to travelers who want to maximize their chances of wildlife sightings without spending a fortune. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable on the water for a couple of hours and enjoy a small, personalized outing.

It’s also a good pick for those who love spectacular scenery and quick dips—the swim stop in crystal-clear waters offers a refreshing break from sightseeing. If you're traveling with older children or teenagers, they’ll likely enjoy the speed and excitement.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more comprehensive or relaxed day at sea, or if you want guarantees on sightings, you might want to explore longer or larger boat options. Still, for the price and the experience described, this tour offers a compelling balance of fun and value.

Will I definitely see whales or dolphins?
Sightings depend on sea conditions, but the crew guarantees sightings when possible. Many reviews mention successful encounters with dolphins and pilot whales, though it’s not an absolute guarantee.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts around 2 hours, with departure times varying. It’s a quick, action-packed outing designed to maximize your time at sea.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim. Sunscreen and sunglasses are helpful for protection under the sun, and a jacket might be good if it’s a cooler day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old. Older children who enjoy boats and wildlife will generally have a great time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, this tour doesn’t include food or drinks. You might want to bring some water or snacks, especially if you’re sensitive to the sun or wind.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve ahead as spots can fill up, especially during peak season. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This Los Gigantes speedboat tour offers a lively, affordable way to encounter marine life and enjoy the stunning cliffs of Tenerife. With many travelers raving about the closeness to wildlife, spectacular scenery, and friendly crew, it’s clear this trip packs a lot into just two hours.

It’s great for those who want a short, memorable adventure that combines wildlife, scenery, and a splash of fun. While wildlife sightings are always subject to sea conditions, the overall experience, reviews, and value make it a solid choice for anyone eager to see the ocean’s gentle giants up close.

If you’re after a small-group, high-energy excursion that won’t break the bank, this tour could be a highlight of your Tenerife trip. Just remember to be prepared for the weather and to set your expectations for a nature-based adventure — unpredictable but often unforgettable.