Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat

A calm day at sea is hard to beat. Off Tenerife, this small-group sail cruise turns whale watching into something more relaxed, with a real sailing rhythm and time to swim. You start with the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes right off the harbor, then head out to search for dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles in the open Atlantic.

I especially love two things about this trip. First, it’s the way the boat ride stays intimate, limited to 10 participants, so you can move around and actually enjoy the experience. Second, you get the best kind of “treat after the search,” a swim and snorkel stop at a small cove, plus fresh fruit, wine, and made-to-order sandwiches.

One consideration: you can’t control wildlife sightings. You will look for dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles, but what shows up depends on the day, and the trip also isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments. Also, bring your own towel, because it’s not included.

Key things I’d circle before you book

• A small group of up to 10 keeps the boat feeling personal, not crowded
• Los Gigantes cliffs from the water give you views you just cannot get from land
• Wind-powered sailing when conditions allow adds real “sailboat” flavor to the outing
• Swim and snorkel for about 30 minutes at a scenic cove, with snorkeling gear supplied
• Food and drinks are genuinely part of the value, from fruit to cava and sandwiches (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options)
• The crew’s focus is respectful wildlife viewing, and that care shows up in how they handle the marine environment

Los Gigantes cliffs and open-ocean wildlife, in one 3-hour loop

Los Gigantes is the kind of place where the scenery does half the job for you. Those towering black cliffs are dramatic from land, but from the water they feel even closer, like you’re sailing under a natural fortress. Even before you start scanning the horizon, the coastline alone makes the cruise worth it.

Then comes the main event: marine life in the Atlantic. You’ll set out to look for dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles. Sightings are never guaranteed, but this route and timing are set up for spotting, and the crew actively searches while staying mindful of wildlife distance and behavior.

This is also a nice length for anyone who wants a big nature payoff without losing most of a day. At 3 hours, you can still plan dinner plans after, and you’re not stuck with a half-day or full-day schedule that turns into a drag if the sea is breezy.

Getting started at Third Element, Pier 1 (Mooring 156)

Your day begins at Third Element Luxury Charters Whale Watching & Sailing Charters, in Los Gigantes. You meet at Pier 1, mooring number 156. If you’re arriving by taxi or walking in from town, I’d double-check the mooring number on your phone before you go, because ports can look similar from a distance.

The meeting spot matters here because the experience is small-group from the start. You’ll board, get oriented, and then you’re off relatively quickly into the open water for the search phase. That early momentum is part of why the whole outing feels efficient, not rushed.

Because the crew runs this with a live guide (Spanish, English, French, and German), you’re not stuck guessing what you’re looking at once you’re underway. You get guidance in the language you choose.

What “small-group sailing” feels like once you’re on board

This isn’t a huge party boat. The group is limited to 10 participants, and that single detail changes the vibe. You can spread out, pay attention to the sea surface, and still have room to relax without bumping into people every time the boat changes direction.

You’ll also experience the sailing side of a sailboat, not just a motor ride with sails stuck up. When conditions are right, the crew raises the sail so you feel that classic wind-powered movement. On some days the wind may not cooperate as much, but the plan is always there to make the sailing part real.

Service is also built into the trip in a normal, comfortable way. Drinks come while you’re out on the water, and you’re not waiting until the end for something to sip. That helps you stay present in the search instead of drifting into “when do we eat?”

From the reviews, one consistent theme is how well the crew manages both the experience and the atmosphere. Names that come up often include David, Eileen, and Jamie. Depending on the day, you may see different combinations of hosts, but the approach looks consistent: friendly, hands-on, and focused on the sea.

The main search: dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles on the Atlantic

Out at sea, the goal is simple, but the job is real: scan for marine life, move to where sightings might be, and keep distance so animals can behave naturally. You’ll spend about 2 hours out on the water in this search phase, focused on dolphins and pilot whales, and with turtles also on the watch list.

One thing I like about this format is the balance of “look and learn.” The crew points out what you’re seeing, explains local sea life behavior, and keeps you oriented without turning the trip into a lecture hall. That matters because when you spot something, you want context fast, not five minutes later.

Also, the small-group setup helps with whale watching etiquette. If you’re on a crowded boat, you often end up watching from the side of a crowd and fighting for position. With fewer people on board, the viewing is more controlled and less chaotic, which means you’re more likely to actually see animals rather than just hear about them.

If you’re hoping for close-up pilot whale moments, this kind of operation is set up for that possibility. Reviews include accounts of pilot whales coming close and even engaging playfully near the boat. Still, keep expectations flexible. Wildlife can be unpredictable, and some days turn up more dolphins and other fish than whales.

The swim and snorkel stop at Los Gigantes’ nearby cove

After the open-ocean search, you switch gears for water time. There’s a swim and snorkel stop at a small cove off Tenerife, with about 30 minutes in the water. This is where the cruise gets extra memorable, because you’re not just watching from above, you’re getting into the scene.

Snorkeling gear is provided, which is a big practical win. You don’t need to buy or rent equipment. You just need to bring swimwear and a change of clothes, plus a towel. (The towel gap is real, so plan for it instead of hoping you can borrow one.)

This stop is also scenic in a very Tenerife way. Los Gigantes waters are known for clear visibility on the right day, and recent experiences describe bright blue water and lots of colorful fish close to the snorkeling spot. If you’ve snorkeled elsewhere before, you’ll likely appreciate that this is positioned as a real viewing pause, not a rushed splash.

Drawback check: 30 minutes goes fast once you’re in. If snorkeling is your main goal, come prepared and keep your energy for the water time, not for extra fussing on deck.

Food, drinks, and dietary options that make sailing easy

If you’re choosing a whale watching cruise, food and drinks aren’t a luxury. They’re part of the comfort and the overall value, because you’re spending time out on the water with limited options to grab something later.

Here, you get fresh fruit plus drinks right on board. Drinks include cava, white and red wine, beer, and soft drinks. You’ll also get freshly made sandwiches after the return phase begins, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.

From the reviews, one of the most praised parts is how generous and tasty the food and drinks feel for a 3-hour outing. People mention enjoying cava in particular, and they also note that sandwiches can be made with specific dietary needs. That helps you travel with confidence, especially if your diet is more limited.

One practical note: photos aren’t included. If you want underwater shots or want to capture whale moments, bring your own phone camera plan, and consider a waterproof case if you’re bringing your phone into snorkel time.

Tips that help you enjoy the boat ride, not fight it

This trip is calm and scenic, but it’s still time on the Atlantic. If you’re prone to sea sickness, take precautions before you board. One review specifically mentioned that some people felt sea sickness, so it’s worth planning like a pro.

Wear comfortable clothing you can stand in and move around with. Breathable layers work well because you can feel changes from deck wind to calmer water. For your “in and out of the boat” moments, flip-flops or easy slip-on sandals can help, but keep it simple so you don’t spend the whole trip adjusting gear.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Change of clothes
• Towel
• Comfortable, breathable clothes

And plan around mobility realities. This experience isn’t listed as suitable for people with mobility impairments, so if that applies to you, it’s best to look for another format that fits better.

Price and value: what $88 buys you in the real world

$88 per person sounds like a lot until you break down what you get for that time. You’re paying for a few big-ticket elements at once: a sailboat experience, a small group setup, professional guiding, the wildlife search effort, drinks, and a swim and snorkel stop with gear.

A common value trap on tours is when you pay for the “activity” but end up bringing snacks and improvising your comfort. Here, the boat includes drinks plus fruit, and it feeds you with homemade sandwiches after the swim. That turns the cruise into a package rather than a bare sightseeing outing.

You also get flexibility in the way you book, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. The small-group cap at 10 passengers is another real value driver. It often costs more than big-boat tours, but the experience quality tends to be better because you’re less boxed in.

So, the question becomes: does a sail-based whale watch + swim stop match your Tenerife travel style? If yes, this price starts to feel fair pretty fast.

Who should book this sailing whale cruise, and who might not

This cruise fits best if you want:

• A relaxed boat day with a small group
• A chance to see dolphins and pilot whales without a hectic pace
• A real swim and snorkel break
• Included snacks, drinks, and dietary options

It’s also a strong choice for people who care about respectful wildlife viewing. Many reviews highlight that the crew treats the animals and marine environment with care, not chaos. One guest even described the crew handling an issue in the water, like removing an old net, which reinforces that this is run with attention to ocean impacts.

It may not fit if:

• Mobility limitations make boarding and movement difficult
• You need unlimited time in the water (snorkel stop is about 30 minutes)
• You want a guaranteed whale sighting (nature decides that part)

If you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even solo, the small-group format tends to feel welcoming without being overly formal.

Should you book this Tenerife whale watching cruise?

I think you should book it if your ideal Tenerife day is water time, wildlife searching, and a proper snack-and-drink setup with a swim break. The small group of up to 10, plus Los Gigantes cliffs from the sea, makes it feel like more than just a ticket to the ocean.

You should hesitate if you absolutely need a specific outcome like guaranteed whales, or if mobility access is a concern. Also, pack a towel and be ready for the fact that the sea can be a bit changeable.

If you go in with flexible expectations about wildlife and a mindset focused on the ride, you’re likely to come away happy, with pilot whale and dolphin sightings as the icing on top.

FAQ

How long is the Tenerife Los Gigantes whale watching cruise?

The cruise lasts 3 hours total.

What marine animals might I see on this tour?

The tour focuses on spotting dolphins, pilot whales, and turtles in the Atlantic Ocean.

Where do I meet the tour?

You meet at Third Element Luxury Charters Whale Watching & Sailing Charters, at Pier 1, mooring number 156. Directions are available on Google Maps for Third Element.

How many people are on the boat?

It’s a small group limited to 10 participants.

Is swimming and snorkeling included?

Yes. There is time to swim and snorkel for about 30 minutes, and snorkeling equipment is included.

What should I bring for the swim stop?

Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel. Comfortable clothes help, since you’ll be on deck before and after the water time.

What food and drinks are included?

You’ll get fresh fruit and homemade sandwiches (with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available), plus drinks including cava, white and red wine, beer, and soft drinks.

What languages are offered by the live guide?

The live guide offers Spanish, English, French, and German.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

What is the price for this cruise?

The price is $88 per person.