Whales in Los Gigantes, minus the big-boat chaos. This 3-hour small-group sailing trip takes you out along the cliffs of Los Gigantes for whale spotting, then adds time to swim and snorkel near Tenerife’s coast.

I especially like the tight group size (max 10 people). It makes it feel personal on deck, and the crew can actually answer your questions and keep an eye on everyone during the water time. I also like the all-in food and drink setup: fruit, sandwiches (including gluten-free and vegan options), plus cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks.

One practical consideration: towels are not included, so bring your own if you plan to rinse, dry off, or stay comfortable after snorkeling.

Key highlights at a glance

• Max 10 travelers for more space and calmer attention during the trip
• Sailing past the Los Gigantes cliffs with time set aside for swimming and snorkeling
• Onboard lunch-style bites: freshly cut fruit and custom sandwiches with vegan and gluten-free options
• Drinks included: cava, wine, beer, plus soft drinks and bottled water
• Comfort on a Bavaria Cruiser 45 with sunbeds on the bow for viewing and photos

Why Los Gigantes by sail feels different from big-boat trips

Los Gigantes is the kind of place where the cliffs do most of the talking. From the water, the black rock walls look dramatic and close, and you’re not stuck staring from a distance. Doing it by sailboat also changes the pace: it feels slower, steadier, and easier to enjoy.

The biggest win here is the group size. With a maximum of 10 people, you tend to get more crew attention, and you’re not fighting for deck space when the animals show up. That matters on whale watching tours, because the best moments happen fast, and you want to be in a good position.

I also like the way this trip mixes wildlife time with water time. You’re not just chasing sightings; you get a real snorkel break near the cliffs. That combo makes the outing feel complete, even if the wildlife activity is slower than expected.

The 3-hour plan: cliffs first, then whales, then a real swim

This outing runs about three hours, and the centerpiece is sailing off Los Gigantes. You spend around two hours on that first segment moving around the coastline and looking for whales and dolphins.

After the initial sailing and watching time, you’ll have a swimming and snorkeling stop. The itinerary doesn’t give exact minute-by-minute timing, but the schedule is clearly built so you don’t waste the best water time waiting around on deck.

Food and drinks are part of the flow, not an afterthought. You’ll have snacks and freshly cut fruit, plus custom sandwiches, and you’re served drinks onboard throughout the experience. In practice, that means you can keep your energy up while you switch between watching the ocean and getting in the water.

Stop 1: Los Gigantes coastline

The tour focuses on the Los Gigantes cliffs first. That’s a smart choice because it gives the crew time to position the boat where sightings are most likely and where the coastline looks its best.

It also sets the tone: this is a scenic trip as well as a wildlife trip. Even when you’re waiting for whales, you’re still getting something worth seeing.

Onboard comfort: the Bavaria Cruiser 45 and why sunbeds matter

You sail on a Bavaria Cruiser (45 feet, 2012 model), which feels like the sweet spot for a small-group ocean outing. It’s not some huge party boat where you feel like a number, but it also isn’t tiny enough to feel cramped.

The boat has comfortable sunbeds on the bow, which is a big practical detail. If you want a clear view for whales and dolphins, being able to comfortably sit or recline in the right spot makes a difference. It also helps with photos because you’re not constantly adjusting your body or fighting for a viewpoint.

Deck space is one of those “small” factors that becomes huge on the day. The crew limits the number of people, and that keeps the experience from feeling crowded, especially during the moments when everyone stands up at once to look.

Wildlife watching off Tenerife: what you can realistically hope to see

Whale watching here is all about your luck and the ocean conditions. The good news is that this operator has a consistent track record and the tour format is built to maximize time on the water.

From the sightings people describe, the usual stars include pilot whales and dolphins. You may also see other marine life like sea turtles, and some trips include additional wildlife such as sea birds or even more unusual sightings. The point is not to expect a checklist every time, but to know that multiple types of marine animals do show up on this route.

What I like in this setup is that the crew doesn’t treat wildlife as a mystery you can’t understand. You’ll get clear explanations about what you’re seeing, and the captain answers questions when you ask. That turns the outing from passive watching into a more meaningful experience.

Also, the company runs with a cap of 10 travelers, which means you can often get better sightlines when a pod surfaces. On boats with more people, sightings can feel chaotic because everyone is trying to see around everyone else.

The snorkeling stop near the cliffs: fun, but pack smart

The highlight beyond whale watching is the swim and snorkel time. This is built into the trip in a way that feels intentional, not rushed, and people talk about the surprise of a great cove location close to the cliffs.

Here’s the practical part: you’ll want to be ready for getting in the water. You can’t count on towels being provided, and you’ll likely want to rinse off and dry after snorkeling, especially if you cool down in the shade while you’re back on deck.

If you don’t plan for water comfort, that’s when snorkeling stops feeling relaxing. Bring what you need to feel good after your swim—especially if you tend to get chilly.

One more thing: the tour depends on good weather. If conditions are rough, the schedule may change, or your day may be moved or refunded. That’s not a downside of your choice; it’s just how sea trips work.

Food and drinks onboard: included lunch-style comfort (with dietary options)

On this trip, food isn’t a token snack. You get freshly cut fruit, snacks, and custom sandwiches made with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

You’ll also have a drinks package that’s actually enjoyable: cava, wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water. For many people, that’s part of the value equation because you’re not paying extra once you’re out on the water.

Why this matters: after a couple hours of watching and movement, you’re hungry, and you want a proper bite that won’t upset your stomach. Having food onboard means you don’t have to figure out a separate meal plan during a short trip.

If you have dietary needs, this is one of those rare tours where the options are clearly planned rather than improvised. Just keep in mind that towels are not included, so pack the basics to stay comfortable.

Meeting point at Santa Cruz de Tenerife: find the marina entrance fast

The tour starts and ends back at the meeting point in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. You’ll meet at Third Element Charters Whale Watching & Sailing Charters, at Calle Poblado Marinero, s/n, Pantalán 1 Atraque 156, 38683, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

It’s listed as being near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re not planning to rent a car. Still, I’d treat arrival timing seriously, because you want to board without stress and settle in before the boat leaves.

A practical tip based on how these days run: give yourself extra time to park or get settled at the marina, then check your exact boat/berth details on arrival. Sea days can start on time, and you don’t want to be hunting around while everyone else is already aboard.

Value check: is $90.70 worth it?

At $90.70 per person, you’re paying for more than a ticket to be on a boat. You’re paying for a small-group experience, a real sailing outing off the cliffs, wildlife time, and a structured water stop.

The value gets stronger because several things are included:

• Drinks including wine, beer, and cava
• Fruit, snacks, and custom sandwiches
• Time to swim and snorkel
• A comfort-focused boat setup with sunbeds

A lot of tours in the area either keep costs low by cutting the food, or they keep the price reasonable by putting you on larger vessels where you don’t get much personal attention. Here, the combination of small group plus included bites makes the price feel more aligned with what you’re actually doing for three hours.

Language and guides: English-led, with a Sunday/Monday note

The tour is offered in English. That’s clear enough for most visitors who want explanations without translation apps.

There’s also a specific note: the German guide is not available on Sundays and Mondays. If German is important to you, double-check the day you book and confirm what language support you’ll get.

In practice, the crew on this route has also been described as handling more than one language during some sailings, depending on which guide is on board. If language matters, send a quick message after booking so you know what to expect for your specific departure.

Who this tour is best for

This works especially well if you want:

• A calm, small-group sailing day
• A mix of wildlife viewing and actual time in the water
• Food and drinks included, including gluten-free and vegan options
• A crew that answers questions and keeps attention on the group

It’s a strong pick for families with kids too, since the group size and pace tend to be easier than on large boats. The trip also fits couples who want something scenic and active without turning it into a full-day production.

If you hate getting wet, or you’re not interested in snorkeling, you might not get full value from the water stop. But if you’re curious and comfortable with a swim, this is one of the more complete ways to experience Los Gigantes at sea.

Quick checklist before you go

Here’s what I’d plan for based on what’s included and what isn’t:

• Bring snorkeling basics if you have them, and plan for drying off after
• Pack your own towel since none are provided
• Wear swim-friendly clothes and footwear you can handle on deck
• Expect to sail for about three hours, with time for watching and swimming

Should you book Los Gigantes Whale Watching by Sail Boat?

Book it if you want a well-paced day that combines whale watching, cliffs, and snorkeling without the loud chaos of a huge crowd. The small-group cap (max 10) plus the included food and drinks are the big reasons I think it’s a strong choice at this price.

Skip it or choose another option if you’re set on a towel-provided tour, or if you’re hoping for a purely scenic outing with no water time at all. Sea conditions matter too, so treat the weather note as part of the plan.

If you’re doing Tenerife and Los Gigantes is on your list, this is one of those trips that feels like it uses the ocean time well, rather than wasting it.

FAQ

How long is the Los Gigantes whale watching sailing trip?

The tour lasts about 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts and ends at the meeting point at Third Element Charters Whale Watching & Sailing Charters, Calle Poblado Marinero, s/n Pantalán 1 Atraque 156, 38683, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

What is the price per person?

The price is $90.70 per person.

How big is the group?

This activity has a maximum of 10 travelers.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What is included in the ticket?

Included are complimentary drinks (cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks), freshly cut fruit, custom sandwiches (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options), snacks, and bottled water. Alcoholic beverages are included too.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Sandwiches, snacks, and fruit are included as part of the onboard food service.

Are towels provided?

No. Towels are not included.

What should I expect to do during the tour?

You’ll sail around the Los Gigantes cliffs for whale watching, and you’ll also have time to swim and snorkel near the coast.

When will I receive confirmation after booking?

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Is the tour dependent on weather?

Yes, it requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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