Los Gigantes Whale Watching Charter by Sail Boat

Experience the Beauty of Tenerife’s Coastline with Los Gigantes Whale Watching by Sailboat

Imagine gliding smoothly across the water aboard a cozy 45-foot Bavaria sailboat, with Los Gigantes cliffs towering nearby, and the chance to spot pilot whales, dolphins, and even turtles. For just $86.89 per person, this three-hour excursion offers a perfect mix of marine wildlife, spectacular scenery, and relaxing comfort. The guides—whose knowledge and friendliness shine through—will take you on a journey that feels both intimate and adventurous.

What we love most about this tour is its small-group setting, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds—ideal for travelers who enjoy a quieter, more authentic experience. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling, wine, fresh fruit, and sandwiches makes it not just a wildlife tour but a well-rounded, enjoyable outing. On the flip side, a consideration might be that towels aren’t provided, so pack yours if you plan to swim.

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed yet informative day out on the water. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic cruise with the chance to cool off in the sea, it offers a high-value experience that’s both fun and educational.

This experience made our article of Which Tenerife Cruises And Boat Tours To Choose? We Rank The 12 Best.

Key Points

• Small Group: With a maximum of 10 travelers, expect a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Wildlife and Scenery: Look out for pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and the stunning cliffs of Los Gigantes.
• Snorkeling Stop: Enjoy swimming in a secluded cove with clear waters—an authentic and peaceful escape.
• Inclusion of Food & Drinks: Complimentary wine, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and made-to-order sandwiches cater to various dietary needs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich your experience with insights into marine life and local highlights.
• Great Value: At under $90, the combination of wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and gourmet snacks makes this a memorable, cost-effective outing.

Discovering Tenerife’s Marine Gems from a Sailboat

This whale watching tour by sailboat offers an experience that balances relaxed comfort with the excitement of marine wildlife encounters. Operating in Tenerife’s stunning Los Gigantes area, the trip is designed to maximize your chances of seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, all while enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour departs from Third Element Charters in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, conveniently situated near public transportation. The total trip lasts approximately three hours, a perfect length to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The boat itself is a 2012 Bavaria Cruiser 45, known for its stability and comfort, with plenty of sunbeds on the bow for lounging and soaking up the sun.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The adventure kicks off in Los Gigantes, where you’ll immediately be treated to breathtaking views of the cliffs, often described as dramatic and awe-inspiring. The boat then heads out into open water, where the real magic begins: whale and dolphin spotting. Many reviews highlight the crew’s skill in locating cetaceans, with some travelers reporting sightings of pilot whales, Risso dolphins, and even a turtle.

After a couple of hours of wildlife watching, the boat anchors at a secluded coastal cove for swimming and snorkeling. This spot is described as quiet and less known, offering a chance to cool off and relax in crystal-clear waters—“a peaceful, serene trip,” as one reviewer put it. The guides encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity, and the small group size ensures space for everyone.

Food and Drinks

One of the standout features of this tour is the complimentary food and beverages. Expect bottled water, soft drinks, cava, wine, and beer—perfect for toasting your marine sightings. The freshly cut fruit and custom-made sandwiches (with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options) cater to diverse tastes, making the trip feel more like a special occasion rather than just a sightseeing cruise. As noted in reviews, the sandwiches are delicious, and the drinks flow freely, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Guides and Atmosphere

The guides—though not always named—are consistently described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. They’re eager to answer questions, share insights about marine life, and point out local landmarks. One traveler mentioned how the guides gave “great recommendations for places to visit in the local area,” which adds extra value for those planning more of their trip.

The Wildlife Encounters: Expect Genuine Moments

Many reviewers highlight the quality of wildlife sightings. Seeing pilot whales up close is a highlight: “We had an amazing time. Saw pilot whales and the area around Los Gigantes is beautiful,” reported one guest. Others appreciated the chance to see dolphins and a turtle—rare highlights that make the trip memorable.

One of the most praised aspects is the small-group setting, which allows guides to tailor their commentary to each family or individual. It also means more space to move around and take photos. “Lot’s of opportunities to take photos, saw dolphins and a whale!!! Wow!” shared an enthusiastic traveler.

Snorkeling and Swimming

The snorkeling stop is a major draw—many describe it as a peaceful, beautiful encounter with calm, clear waters. The guides often encourage everyone to jump in and explore, making this part of the trip more than just a wildlife cruise. Reviewers mention how the secluded cove provides a “perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea** away from crowds.

Food and Beverage Experience

The inclusion of wine and beer along with fresh fruit and gourmet sandwiches makes this tour feel more like a luxury day out. Many guests appreciated the generous flow of drinks and the quality of the homemade sandwiches. One reviewer exclaimed, “Hands down recommend this trip, amazing memories made,” emphasizing how the food and drinks elevated the experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour’s cost of $86.89 is competitive, especially considering the inclusive snacks and drinks, snorkeling opportunity, and wildlife sightings. The small group size means a more relaxed experience but also requires booking in advance—on average, travelers reserve their spot 23 days ahead. Remember, towels are not provided, so pack yours if you want to dry off after swimming.

The meeting point in Santa Cruz is accessible, and the tour operates most days, though the German guide is unavailable on Sundays and Mondays—so plan accordingly if you prefer the guided commentary in German. The trip is suitable for most travelers, including families, and service animals are allowed.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

Travelers who value personalized experiences will find this trip especially rewarding. If you love wildlife, scenic coastlines, and relaxed snorkeling, this is a good choice. It’s perfect for those who appreciate good food and drinks included in the package and want to avoid the crowds of larger boat tours. If your goal is to see marine mammals in a natural setting, this tour’s consistent reviews suggest you’ll likely go home happy.

The Sum Up

In essence, this whale watching trip by sailboat offers authentic, small-group wildlife encounters combined with spectacular scenery and refreshing amenities. It’s a well-rounded choice for travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging outing that balances marine life sightings, snorkeling, and quality food. The knowledgeable crew and intimate atmosphere elevate this experience beyond a typical boat ride, making it a special highlight of any Tenerife trip.

While it might not be suitable if you prefer large, fast-paced tours or towels are a must-have, those seeking a peaceful, wildlife-rich adventure will find this tour highly rewarding. It’s an excellent way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment and create memories that last long after you return home.

FAQs

• How long is the tour? The trip lasts approximately three hours, providing plenty of time for wildlife viewing and snorkeling without feeling overlong.

• What wildlife might I see? Expect to spot pilot whales, dolphins, and possibly sea turtles, as several reviewers have confirmed sightings of these species.

• Are food and drinks included? Yes, the tour offers complimentary wine, soft drinks, cava, beer, fresh fruit, and custom-made sandwiches with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

• Is snorkeling equipment provided? While the review details don’t specify, the tour includes a swimming and snorkeling stop, so you might find that some basic gear is available; bringing your own is always recommended.

• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund if canceled early.

• Is this suitable for children? The reviews suggest most travelers, including families, find it suitable—just ensure the children are comfortable with boat trips and swimming.

• What should I bring? Pack towels for swimming, sunscreen, hat, and camera. Remember, towels are not provided by the tour.

This trip combines the best of Tenerife’s coastline and marine life, wrapped in a friendly, intimate setting. Whether it’s your first time whale watching or a repeat visit, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more relaxed and rewarding way to experience the ocean.