Whales and cliff swimming in one short trip. This Los Gigantes whale and dolphin tour mixes real animal time with a swim stop in Masca Bay, plus views of dramatic cliffs on the way back.

What I really like is the chance to see marine life close to the boat without a half-day commitment. I also love that you get a proper break to swim in Masca Bay and cool off with a cold drink after.

The main drawback to plan for is timing: if the crew spends extra time finding animals, the swim stop is brief.

Key things to know before you go

• Pilot whales and dolphins are common sightings, with some trips reporting other whale species too
• 15 minutes of wildlife time during the main stop, so you’ll want to be ready to look
• Masca Bay swim is the payoff, under the cliffs, usually only about 15 minutes
• Cold drink included (water, soft drink, or beer) right after the water time
• Small-window trip: 2 hours total means you should show up early at the harbor
• No snorkeling gear included, so bring goggles and your own snorkeling setup if you want it

Two hours from Los Gigantes: why this Masca Bay whale tour hits

This is a smart choice if you want the big “Canary Islands nature” moment without losing your whole day. In about 2 hours, you’re out at sea for whale or dolphin watching, then you get a swim stop in Masca Bay under the cliffs.

You also get the “wow” views twice. First while you’re searching for marine life near the dramatic Los Gigantes coast, and again on the return when you sail back alongside the cliffs.

Meeting the boat: where you start and why arrival time matters

Your tour starts at C. Pob. Marinero, 1, local 21. Check-in is tied to the harbor area, with start points listed as Maritima Acantilados or the Nashira Uno office, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

Because the whole tour is short, don’t treat this like a loose suggestion. When your trip window is only 2 hours, even a small delay can shrink the time you spend looking for animals or in the water.

Also note the tour does not include pick-up. You’ll need to handle your own way to the harbor, so build in a little buffer for finding the exact office and getting counted in.

Speedboat time: what the 30-minute cruise is really for

Once you’re out on the water, you’re not wasting time. The boat ride is part of the process: you’re traveling from Los Gigantes to the most promising areas for sightings and then positioning for the viewing stop.

Expect the ride to feel lively. It’s a speedboat, not a slow ferry, so you’ll feel the movement more than you would on a big tour boat. The trade-off is that you cover ground and get back quickly.

The itinerary also includes a second 30-minute speedboat section, which keeps the pacing tight and focused on the highlights: animals, then Masca Bay, then scenic return.

Finding whales or dolphins near Los Gigantes cliffs

The main wildlife moment happens at Los Gigantes, where you get marine life viewing with whale watching or dolphin watching. The schedule calls for about 15 minutes during that stop, so you’ll want your eyes up and your camera ready.

What you can realistically expect: dolphins are a frequent target, and pilot whales show up on many trips. Some outings also report other whale species, such as Bryde whales. In short, you’re booking a wildlife search where the outcome depends on the day and conditions.

One useful detail is how close the viewing can be. The tour is set up so you can spot surfacing and underwater movement from the boat when the animals come near. That’s the kind of “better than a distant speck” experience you’re paying for.

A short viewing stop that still feels like a real experience

Fifteen minutes sounds small until you’re out there actually watching. What matters is how the crew works the search.

The strongest pattern in the feedback is that the crew actively hunts for animals, then focuses on getting you good looks once they’re found. You’re not just cruising past and hoping. You’re part of a planned run: watch, look for the right angle, then move on.

If you’re booking this expecting a long whale safari, this is not that style of trip. But if you want a clear, focused wildlife window paired with a swim stop, it fits the job.

Masca Bay swim stop: the best part, and how to do it right

After the wildlife viewing, the tour heads to Masca Bay for your swim time beneath the cliffs. The experience goal is simple: crystal-clear water, dramatic scenery, and a quick refresh break after time at sea.

This is also where you’ll want to be ready with the right gear. The tour asks you to bring a towel, sunscreen, goggles, and your snorkeling gear. Snorkeling is possible, but snorkeling equipment is not included, so plan to bring what you need if you want to get under the surface.

How the water time works matters. Your swim stop is brief, often around 15 minutes, so don’t use the time to figure out your kit. If you want to snorkel, put it on immediately after the boat settles and get moving.

Also keep in mind the entry is from the boat into deeper water. Some people find that part easy, others prefer to practice their calm step-before-jump rhythm. Either way, it’s not a beach walk-in.

Los Gigantes cliffs on the return: the “paperweight” view

The final stretch includes scenic views on the way back, with about 30 minutes of cruising time to enjoy the coast. This is when you’ll likely appreciate how the cliffs tower over the water and how the coastline changes as the boat angles in.

It’s a great part of the trip for photos, too. Even if you didn’t get the perfect animal sighting, the cliff views still deliver the main scenery promise of Los Gigantes.

What’s included in the $28 value, and what costs extra

At about $28 per person, this tour stacks value in a few smart ways.

You’re getting:

• Whale or dolphin watching
• A swimming stop in Masca Bay near the cliffs
• A drink (water, soft drink, or beer)
• A guide
• Insurance

Those inclusions matter because they prevent the usual “nickel-and-dime” feeling. The drink is a small thing, but it’s also a genuine morale boost after being out in sun and salt air.

What’s not included:

• Pick-up service
• Snorkeling equipment

So if you want to snorkel, bring your own setup. At the dock, you may find rentals, but the tour itself won’t provide gear.

Guides and onboard rules: how the experience stays respectful

The tour includes a live guide who speaks Spanish and English. The best kind of tour guide here is the one who helps you spot quickly, then explains what you’re seeing so it feels meaningful, not random.

There are also clear behavior rules:

• No smoking or vaping
• No alcohol and drugs
• No littering
• No speakers

You’re trying to watch animals, so these rules help keep the experience from turning into a noisy party. You’ll also likely find it’s easier to hear your guide’s instructions when the environment is controlled.

Who should book this Los Gigantes to Masca tour

Book this if you want:

• A short, focused trip that still delivers nature highlights
• A mix of wildlife viewing and a real swim
• A good value package with a cold drink included

It’s especially appealing for couples and small groups who don’t want to plan an all-day excursion. It also works well for people who just want one “big hit” excursion while staying based near Los Gigantes.

Skip it if your priority is a long time in the water or a long animal safari. The viewing window is timed, and the swim stop is also brief.

If you’re traveling with mobility needs, this tour is listed as wheelchair accessible, which is a big plus when you’re choosing between boats and steep alternatives.

Practical tips to make the trip smoother

Here’s what I’d do to make sure you actually get the full experience, not just the idea of it.

• Bring your towel and sunscreen. You’ll come back wet or at least sun-kissed.
• If you snorkel, bring your goggles and snorkeling gear, since equipment isn’t included.
• Use the dock area before boarding. On at least some departures, people note limited facilities on board, so plan like you’ll rely on the harbor before you sail.
• Show up early enough to handle check-in. With only 2 hours, the trip can feel rushed if the boat runs late or you arrive unprepared.

If weather or sea conditions are rough, there’s also a chance the operator adjusts. One account notes switching to a larger boat and extending the cruise when conditions demanded it. That’s not guaranteed, but it’s a good reminder to stay flexible.

Should you book this Los Gigantes to Masca whale watching and swim tour?

Yes, you should book it if you want a high-impact nature outing that doesn’t eat your whole day. The combination is the reason: whales or dolphins plus a Masca Bay swimming stop plus cliffs on the return, all wrapped into one 2-hour trip with a drink included.

I would hesitate only if you’re the type who needs long time underwater or you’re hoping for a specific whale species. This is a search-and-spot adventure. On the right day, it’s fantastic. On any day, the Masca Bay swim and Los Gigantes scenery are still worth the ticket.

If your schedule is tight and you want one standout excursion from the Los Gigantes area, this one is a solid pick.

FAQ

How long is the Los Gigantes to Masca whale or dolphin watching tour?

The tour duration is 2 hours.

How much does the tour cost?

The price is listed as $28 per person.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Maritima Acantilados or the Nashira Uno office, and the listed starting location is C. Pob. Marinero, 1, local 21. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

What wildlife watching is included?

The tour includes whale watching and/or dolphin watching, depending on what the crew finds during the marine life viewing stop.

Is swimming in Masca Bay included?

Yes. There is a swimming stop at Masca Bay under the cliffs.

Can I snorkel, and is snorkeling equipment provided?

You can snorkel at the swim stop, but snorkeling equipment is not included. The tour asks you to bring snorkeling gear and goggles if you plan to snorkel.

What drink do you get during the tour?

A drink is included, with options listed as water, soft drink, or beer.

Is pick-up service included?

No. Pick-up service is not included.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are the guides, and is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The guide speaks Spanish and English, and the tour is listed as wheelchair accessible.

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