Costa Adeje: Masca and Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise

Imagine cruising along the southern coast of Tenerife aboard a comfortable catamaran, with the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment. For around $68 per person, this 4.5-hour tour offers a delightful mix of wildlife viewing, scenic sights, and relaxing moments. The journey explores the impressive cliffs of Los Gigantes, the charming village of Masca from the sea, and provides plenty of opportunities to swim in the clear waters of the Atlantic.

What we love most about this trip is how well-organized and friendly the experience tends to be. The guides are knowledgeable, providing insights into whale behavior and migration, which makes the wildlife sightings all the more fascinating. Plus, the onboard amenities—like sun loungers, lunch, and drinks—add a layer of comfort that transforms a sightseeing boat ride into a genuine leisure experience.

Of course, one consideration is that luck plays a role in what you see. Some reviews mention not spotting whales during their trip, so if wildlife viewing is your primary goal, it’s worth keeping expectations flexible. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a laid-back, social atmosphere with plenty of scenic and wildlife highlights. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to combine relaxation with adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings: Look out for pilot whales, dolphins, and possibly other species.
• Comfort & service: High-quality, friendly staff and comfortable sun loungers onboard.
• Includes lunch & drinks: Enjoy a provided meal with soft drinks and beer.
• Swim opportunity: Stop for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Pickup options: Available from many southern Tenerife locations for added convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This cruise departs from Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, a bustling hub perfect for travelers staying in southern Tenerife. The boat itself is a catamaran, which offers stability and ample space—something many reviews highlight positively. The trip lasts about 4.5 hours, balancing enough time at sea to increase your chances of wildlife sightings without feeling overly long.

The itinerary starts with a sail along the coast, heading towards the cliffs of Los Gigantes. These towering rock formations are a sight in themselves, and seeing them from the water provides a perspective you simply can’t get from land. Many travelers rave about the stunning views, with one review noting how they relaxed on deck and enjoyed the scenery, feeling like they were in a different world.

Next, the boat heads towards the Masca area, a picturesque village on land, but from the sea, it looks even more enchanting. The view of the rugged coastline and lush greenery is particularly captivating. The highlight, however, is the wildlife: your guide will explain how pilot whales, dolphins, and other species migrate through these waters. Several reviews mention sightings of pilot whales and dolphins, making the experience exciting and educational.

Wildlife Watching and Animal Behavior

The core appeal of this tour is spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Guides are typically very knowledgeable—like the reviewer who described the experience as “very interesting and informative,” with sightings of pilot whale pods. They will share insights into each species’ habits, diet, and migration routes, enriching your understanding of these intelligent creatures.

While sightings are not guaranteed—nature is unpredictable—many guests leave satisfied, having seen several species. Some reviews mention plenty of animals to see, and one guest noted how the “loads of room to move around” made the experience comfortable and relaxed, with the opportunity to learn about their behavior.

Comfort and Onboard Amenities

The comfort of the boat is a standout feature. We loved the sun loungers on deck, which allow you to relax and soak up the sun, making it easy to unwind between wildlife sightings. The lunch, included in the price, is described as good quality, with many guests appreciating the snacks, soft drinks, and beer. One reviewer particularly enjoyed the food and highlighted the value for money, considering all the extras provided.

Plus, there’s a stop for swimming in the clear waters, allowing you to cool off and enjoy the ocean. Many guests mention how refreshing it was to swim in front of the Los Gigantes cliffs, a truly scenic backdrop. The provided towels and sunscreen help make this a hassle-free experience.

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Service and Flexibility

The crew is often praised for their friendliness and professionalism. Several reviews emphasize how helpful and knowledgeable the guides are, adding educational value to the trip. Pickup and drop-off from selected locations in southern Tenerife are optional but very convenient, easing the logistical side of your day.

The booking process is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you peace of mind to plan with confidence.

Potential Drawbacks

As with any wildlife tour, there’s an element of luck involved. Some guests mention not seeing whales during their trip, which can be disappointing. Weather conditions, sea conditions, and the animals’ natural migration patterns all influence sightings. Plus, some reviews suggest that food and drinks could be better—more variety or hot drinks might improve the onboard experience, especially if the weather is cooler.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a gentle boat ride, scenic views, and a chance to learn about marine life. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxing day at sea with the bonus of wildlife sightings and swimming. If you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a fun, laid-back activity with plenty of photo opportunities, this cruise ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Costa Adeje: Masca and Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise offers a charming blend of adventure, relaxation, and education at a reasonable price. The stunning coastal views, combined with wildlife sightings and onboard amenities, make it a memorable outing. Many travelers praise the friendly crew, good value for money, and the opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment.

While sightings can never be guaranteed, the positive reviews and overall high rating suggest this tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting to experience Tenerife’s marine life and rugged coastline. You’ll likely leave with beautiful photos, new knowledge, and perhaps a few stories about your close encounters with sea creatures.

If you’re willing to embrace the unpredictability of wildlife watching and enjoy a relaxed day on the water, this cruise is a highly enjoyable way to spend part of your Tenerife holiday.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Pickup and drop-off are available from selected locations in southern Tenerife if you choose that option, making it easy to start and end the tour without hassle.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended. Pack light but be prepared for sun and sea.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the whale watching cruise, guide, lunch, soft drinks, and beer. Sun loungers are available at an extra cost.

Will I see whales?
While many guests do see pilot whales and dolphins, sightings depend on the day’s conditions and animal movements. No guarantee, but many leave satisfied.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise’s relaxed atmosphere and opportunity for swimming make it family-friendly, especially for those comfortable on the water.

This whale watching tour in Tenerife balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to your Canary Islands adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: