Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour Los Gigantes (3H)

A 3-Hour Marine Adventure in Tenerife’s Los Gigantes

If you’re looking to witness whales and dolphins in their natural environment while enjoying stunning coastal views, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour from Los Gigantes offers a memorable way to do so. For around $76 per person, you get a three-hour cruise aboard a comfortable sailboat, with options for shared or private trips. You’ll explore the waters of the Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve, famous for its rich marine biodiversity, and get close enough to see playful dolphins, majestic whales, and even sea turtles.

What we really love about this tour is its small-group feel, with a maximum of 9 guests, which means plenty of space and a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a local Spanish-style lunch makes it more than just a wildlife-spotting trip—it’s a complete seaside experience. However, keep in mind that this tour lasts only three hours, so those hoping for a longer adventure might find it a bit brief, especially if you’re eager to spend more time in the water or with the wildlife.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love marine life, scenic coastlines, and intimate boat trips. Families, couples, or friends looking for a relaxed yet enriching outing will find plenty to enjoy here, especially given the consistent praise for friendly guides and good value. Beginners and seasoned boaters alike will appreciate the manageable pace and focus on respectful wildlife observation.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: See whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Scenic vistas: Capture stunning photos of the Cliffs of Los Gigantes and surrounding coastline.
• Snorkeling opportunity: Swim and snorkel in a crystal-clear cove with provided gear.
• Expert crew: Knowledgeable guides share insights about marine life and volcanic landscapes.
• Relaxed atmosphere: Small groups ensure a calm, personalized experience.
• Value for money: Includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour from Los Gigantes

Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect

From the moment you arrive at the MPC Yacht Charter base in Los Gigantes, you’ll feel the promise of an authentic marine adventure. The tour is scheduled for three hours, a perfect window to balance wildlife spotting, water activities, and relaxation without feeling rushed. The boat, a 14-meter sailboat named El Mojo Picon, is described as comfortable and well-maintained—ample space for up to 10 guests on private charters or fewer on shared trips, which keeps the trip intimate and stress-free.

Your journey begins with a gentle departure from the harbor, heading into the biodiverse marine areas of the Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve. The guide (with reviews praising them as knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic) will point out notable sights and share tidbits about Tenerife’s volcanic landscape and marine ecosystem. You’ll love the way the crew takes care to keep wildlife disturbance minimal, ensuring a respectful approach to the animals—something many reviews appreciated, especially as boats cut engines before getting close to whales.

Wildlife Spotting: Whales, Dolphins, and Turtles

The main event here is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural surroundings. Multiple reviewers highlight how quickly they found marine mammals, with some seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles almost immediately. One traveler described the experience as “truly awesome,” noting that they got within a few feet of pilot whales, and that the guides’ expertise made all the difference in locating these elusive creatures.

Many reviews mention that sightings are frequent and close—dolphins leaping alongside the boat, whales surfacing nearby, and in some cases, a mother whale with a baby, offering visitors a rare, intimate look at these gentle giants.

What makes this experience stand out is the respectful distance maintained by the guides, who prioritize the animals’ well-being. This approach not only benefits the wildlife but also enhances the authenticity of your encounter—you’re truly observing animals in their environment, not in captivity or overly staged.

The Snorkeling and Water Breaks

A highlight for many is the opportunity to swim or snorkel in a secluded cove with pristine waters. The gear is provided, and the water’s clarity makes it easy to spot fish and even small sea turtles, as some reviews mention. One reviewer noted that the swimming segment was brief (~10 minutes) because of time constraints, but still appreciated the chance to cool off and see underwater life close-up.

The boat anchors at a picturesque spot in front of the cliffs, giving you a peaceful setting to float, snorkel, or simply relax in the sun. The calm waters and scenic beauty make this a truly relaxing experience, although some travelers might wish for a longer water session.

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The Scenic Marvels of Los Gigantes

While wildlife is the main attraction, the rock formations of Los Gigantes themselves are a sight to behold. The 600-meter-high cliffs provide a stunning backdrop as you cruise along the coast, and many reviewers mention how photography-friendly the scenery is. You’ll love snapping pictures of these towering cliffs, especially during the sunset option when the golden hour bathes everything in warm hues.

Food and Drinks: A Taste of Spain at Sea

Included in the tour is a light Spanish-style lunch alongside appetizers, fruit, and drinks—often wine, beer, and soft drinks. Several reviews praise the quality and freshness of the snacks, with one mentioning a “yummy” lunch that hit the spot after swimming. On private charters, a more substantial brunch is available, adding more value for those seeking a leisurely day at sea.

The drinks flow freely, contributing to a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Guests appreciate the informative commentary from multilingual guides, who share insights about the local landscape and marine life, adding educational value to this enjoyable voyage.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The small-group setting (max 9 guests) earns high praise for its intimate vibe, less crowding, and more personalized attention. One reviewer noted that the small group made for a truly “intimate and remarkable” experience, perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing: The tour is 3 hours long—good for those wanting a quick but comprehensive experience. Morning trips are optimal for whale sightings, as per reviews, but the schedule depends on the day.
• What to Bring: A towel, camera, and a light jacket are recommended, especially if you plan to swim or stay on deck.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for those with mobility or heart problems, and alcohol is not permitted.
• Booking & Flexibility: Easy to reserve online with flexible cancellation policies, making it convenient for spontaneous plans or changing schedules.

Overall Value

When you consider the price of $76, the tour offers excellent value. It includes the boat, snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and safety equipment—all essentials for a memorable day at sea. The reviews frequently mention how much they appreciated the comprehensive experience and the knowledgeable crew, making it more than just a wildlife-spotting trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for nature lovers and water enthusiasts who want an up-close look at marine life without the hassle of a long day or complex logistics. Families with children (who are old enough to snorkel and swim) will find it manageable and fun, especially with the small group size and friendly guides. Those seeking beautiful scenery, informative guides, and a relaxing environment will leave with plenty of photos and great memories.

If you’re a traveler who values respectful wildlife observation and enjoys a modestly paced trip with good food and company, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s a balanced mix of adventure, education, and scenic beauty—delivered with warmth and professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts exactly 3 hours, providing enough time to see marine life, snorkel, and enjoy some food without feeling rushed.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children who can swim and are comfortable on boats will enjoy the experience. Keep in mind the water activities are relatively brief, about 10 minutes per stop.

What species might we see?
Many guests have reported sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and sometimes various fish species.

What should I bring?
A towel, camera, and a light jacket are recommended. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, especially if you’re sensitive to sun exposure.

Can I book a private trip?
Yes, private charters for up to 10 people are available, which can provide a more tailored experience for families or small groups.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the cruise, snorkeling gear, lunch, appetizers, drinks, and safety equipment.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems. Alcohol and fireworks are not permitted onboard.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case plans change.

To sum it up, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour from Los Gigantes offers a well-rounded, authentic marine experience. The small-group setting, expert guides, and focus on respectful wildlife observation make it stand out. Whether you’re eager to take photos of cliffs and creatures or just want a relaxing day on the water, this tour delivers genuine value, memorable encounters, and a taste of Tenerife’s natural splendor. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, water lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful yet engaging adventure at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: