Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat

If you’re considering a whale watching adventure in Tenerife, this cruise from Los Gigantes is one of the top options, especially if you’re after a more intimate, authentic experience. From reviews and descriptions, it’s clear this isn’t just about ticking off a checklist — it’s about connecting with nature, enjoying good company, and soaking in spectacular scenery.

What we really appreciate about this tour: small group size makes conversations easier and the crew more attentive, while the opportunity to see dolphins, pilot whales, and even turtles in their natural habitat feels genuinely special. Plus, the chance to stop for a swim or snorkel in a beautiful cove adds a fun, relaxing element to the trip.

A potential consideration? The price point of $85 per person is fair for what’s included, but if your priority is a more extensive or exclusive experience, you might find options with longer durations or different themes. That said, if you’re after a balanced, well-rounded half-day that combines wildlife, scenery, and some water fun, this cruise hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love nature, enjoy a bit of adventure, and appreciate good value. It appeals to those who want a relaxed yet engaging outing, especially if you’re visiting Tenerife and seeking a memorable, wildlife-filled excursion.

Key Points

• Small group setting enhances comfort and interaction with guides.
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles, often in close proximity.
• Snorkeling and swimming provide a refreshing break and a chance to see marine life up close.
• Expert guides are knowledgeable and passionate about marine conservation.
• Excellent reviews highlight the friendly crew, good food, and overall value.
• Flexible booking options include free cancellation and pay later plans, adding peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic and Engaging Marine Adventure

We love how this tour balances marine wildlife with scenic beauty. Setting sail from Los Gigantes, you’re in prime position to catch impressive views of the towering cliffs that drop dramatically into the Atlantic. Watching these geological giants from the water is a spectacle that photos just can’t fully capture — you’ll want your camera ready for those sweeping panoramic shots.

The boat itself is described as a beautiful sailing vessel, which is a bit different from standard motorized tours. You might even get a chance to help raise the sail, adding a hands-on feel to the experience if conditions permit. The crew’s enthusiasm and friendliness shine through in reviews, where they’re consistently praised for being knowledgeable and personable.

Most people go into this expecting to see dolphins and whales, and in many cases, that expectation is exceeded. Reviewers mention seeing schools of dolphins playing around the boat and pilot whales passing underneath or swimming right next to it. One review happily reports, “We were super lucky to see a school of pilot whales with a very young baby among them. They approached our sailboat, swam along it, and passed underneath it, sometimes not even a meter away.” That kind of close encounter makes the trip feel truly unforgettable.

What the Experience Looks Like

Starting Point and Setting Sail

Your adventure kicks off at the Third Element Luxury Charters in Los Gigantes. This meeting point is straightforward, with clear directions provided. From there, you board a smaller, well-maintained sailboat, which contributes to the more personal vibe. The environment on board is relaxed: plenty of space, comfortable seating, and the sense that you’re part of a small, friendly group.

Wildlife Watching

Once underway, the crew’s main goal is to spot marine life in their natural habitat. Unlike larger vessels that might rush from sight to sight, this tour emphasizes respecting the animals — no chasing or intrusive behaviors. Instead, the guides share detailed info about what you might see, whether it’s dolphins jumping alongside the boat or whales surfacing nearby. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and passionate the guides are, with some even speaking multiple languages, which enhances the experience for international travelers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkeling and Swimming Break

Midway through the cruise, the boat anchors in a small, picturesque cove for a swim or snorkel stop. The reviews describe the waters here as crystal clear, home to colorful fish and, in some cases, the chance to see turtles. This is a big plus for those who want to combine wildlife watching with some relaxing water time — a good balance that keeps everyone engaged.

Refreshments and Return Journey

Onboard, you’ll be served fresh fruit, homemade sandwiches (with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options), and a selection of drinks such as cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Many say the food quality is surprisingly good for a tour of this nature, with one review raving about the excellent food and drinks, especially the cava.

As the trip winds down, the boat slowly makes its way back along the coast, offering fantastic views of Los Gigantes cliffs. This is perfect for some final photos and reflections on the day’s highlights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Third Element Luxury Charters, where the crew welcomes you aboard. Expect a friendly, professional atmosphere with clear instructions and a small group of up to 10 participants. This limited size makes for a more personalized experience, and many reviews highlight how this improves the overall vibe.

The main activity lasts around 2 hours, focusing on dolphin and whale watching. The guides are adept at locating these animals, often approaching them respectfully and without disturbing their natural routines. Although sightings can vary, most participants report seeing dolphins in playful groups and sometimes pilot whales passing close by, adding a magical element.

The snorkeling stop is a highlight for many. The waters are remarkably clear, providing an excellent chance to see marine life just beneath the surface. After swimming and snorkeling, the crew returns to serving delicious sandwiches and drinks to keep everyone refreshed.

Finally, the trip concludes with a scenic cruise back towards Los Gigantes, with views of the cliffs, perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape.

Reviews and Real Experiences

The glowing reviews are a testament to how well this experience resonates with travelers. Many mention friendly, knowledgeable guides who add value through their insights about marine life and conservation. One reviewer states, “I can’t give this crew enough stars! Their knowledge of and passion for marine life is top notch,” which speaks volumes.

The small group size is consistently praised. Reviewers note how it allows for more relaxed movement, closer wildlife encounters, and better interaction with the crew. The food and drinks are another highlight — “the food and drinks provided were excellent, especially the cava,” one reviewer remarks.

Even those who didn’t see whales or dolphins mention enjoying the serene atmosphere, the beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to relax and snorkel. It seems that the journey itself, regardless of wildlife sightings, feels well worth the price.

One reviewer captures this well: “This ended up being the highlight of our trip. The crew was fantastic and informative. Absolutely recommend for anyone wanting to do a whale watching cruise.”

Practical Details and What to Know Before You Go

The price of $85 per person offers decent value considering the inclusions: marine wildlife sightings, snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and a scenic cruise. It’s an active, engaging 3-hour experience, so pack along swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, and a change of clothes.

The tour operates in several languages, including Spanish, English, French, and German, making it accessible for many travelers. Bookings are flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later — ideal if your plans are still flexible.

Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so if accessibility is a concern, check directly with the provider.

Final Thoughts

This whale watching cruise from Los Gigantes offers a well-rounded, friendly, and respectful approach to seeing wildlife and enjoying the ocean. The small group size, combined with expert guides and high-quality amenities, makes it stand out among similar tours. The chance to observe dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles in their natural environment, coupled with swimming opportunities and good food, makes it a trip worth considering.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, immersive experience without the crowds or excessive fuss. If wildlife, scenic views, and water fun appeal to you, this tour promises a memorable slice of Tenerife’s marine life.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including the wildlife watching, swimming, and return to port.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers the whale watching cruise, snorkeling equipment, fresh fruit, homemade sandwiches (with dietary options), and drinks like cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Is it suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly and children are welcome, it’s not explicitly tailored for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, a change of clothes, and perhaps some sun protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.

What if I don’t see any whales or dolphins?
Wildlife sightings can vary, but many reviews mention excellent encounters. The focus is on respectful wildlife viewing rather than guaranteed sightings.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, ensuring clear communication and interesting insights.

Where do I meet?
At Third Element Luxury Charters in Los Gigantes, with clear directions available via Google Maps.

If you’re after a relaxed, wildlife-focused trip with the chance to see some of Tenerife’s most fascinating marine creatures, this sailboat tour is definitely worth considering. It offers a genuine connection to nature, friendly guides, and a memorable experience that many travelers treasure long after their trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: