Los Gigantes Whale Watching Charter by Sail Boat

The striking cliffs of Los Gigantes are the backdrop for this three-hour sail, but the wildlife gives the day its sense of possibility. Pilot whales are often seen, dolphins are another frequent sight, and the crew may stop at a sheltered coastal spot for a swim and snorkel.

I like two things in particular: the 10-person limit gives you room to stretch out and ask questions, and the combination of wildlife watching, swimming and a proper lunch makes the trip more than a boat ride. Guides including Jaime, Eileen and David are praised for explaining what you see and looking after the group.

One thing to weigh: wildlife is wild, so a whale sighting is never assured. The boat does not include towels, and you should leave time to park near the marina before departure.

At a glance

• A small sailing group: The maximum is 10 people aboard a 45-foot Bavaria Cruiser sailboat.
• A scenic coastal route: The outing sails around the cliffs of Los Gigantes, with about two hours assigned to the coastal stop.
• Wildlife with no guarantee: Pilot whales and dolphins are often seen, but the animals choose the schedule.
• Swim and snorkel time: The crew stops at a quieter spot along the coast, weather and conditions permitting.
• Food and drinks included: Expect sandwiches, fruit, snacks, water, soft drinks, beer, wine and cava.
• Three hours, about $90.70: A good value if you want a small-group sail with lunch and a swim, not simply a quick whale-spotting run.

Sailing beneath the cliffs of Los Gigantes

Los Gigantes makes an impressive setting for a boat trip. The cliffs rise above the coastline, and seeing them from the water gives you a different perspective than viewing them from land. The route is designed around sailing along this stretch, with time to take in the rock walls and the open sea.

The main coastal portion is listed at about two hours. That is a substantial part of a three-hour outing, leaving time for wildlife watching and a swim or snorkel stop. The exact order and timing can shift with sea conditions and where wildlife is found.

This is a sailboat trip, not a large motorboat cruise. The vessel is a 45-foot Bavaria Cruiser, built in 2012, with comfortable sunbeds on the bow. That setup matters: you can settle in to watch the coast rather than jostle for a view, and a smaller boat makes it easier to hear the guide and ask questions.

The cap of 10 people is one of the tour’s strongest practical advantages. Even with a full group, you are not sharing the deck with a crowd. Families and couples can have space, and the crew can speak with people individually. If you dislike packed excursion boats, this format is worth paying attention to.

Whale watching, with room for surprises

Pilot whales are the main draw, and they are seen often on this trip. Dolphins are also regularly spotted, while sightings described on different trips have included sea turtles and several kinds of dolphins. You may see one species, several, or no cetaceans at all. A responsible wildlife outing cannot promise a particular encounter.

That uncertainty is part of the deal. The crew’s knowledge of local marine life can make the time at sea worthwhile even when whales keep their distance. Guides have answered questions about the animals and surrounding waters, and have also shared information about the island and local places to visit.

I would bring binoculars if you already own a compact pair, but they are not listed as required equipment. More important is patience. Keep your attention on the water, and take turns looking rather than staring at a phone screen. The sea can be generous, but it does not work to a timetable.

The small group also improves the wildlife-watching experience. You can move around the boat and find a clear view without competing with a large crowd. The crew can help point out what is happening and explain what you are seeing. That personal attention is a central part of the trip’s appeal, not a bonus detail.

A quiet cove for swimming and snorkeling

The excursion includes a stop at a little-known swimming and snorkeling spot along the coast. It is a chance to get off the boat and into the water, with the cliffs still close by. The location is one reason this trip feels different from a sightseeing cruise that stays underway throughout.

Bring swimwear and snorkeling gear if you have them. The tour information confirms a swimming and snorkeling stop, but does not specify that equipment is supplied. Towels are not included, so pack one if you want to dry off comfortably on the way back.

Conditions matter. Sea temperature and weather can make a swim more inviting at some times of year than others. One family on a cooler-season trip wished they had brought snorkeling gear but said the trip was enjoyable regardless. If you are unsure, bring what you can carry and decide once you see the water.

This is not a dedicated snorkeling charter. The emphasis is on sailing, wildlife and the Los Gigantes coast, with swimming as part of the outing. Expect a pleasant break in the day rather than a long guided underwater session.

Sandwiches, fruit and drinks on board

Lunch and refreshments are included, which adds real value to a three-hour trip. The crew serves custom-made sandwiches, freshly cut fruit and snacks, along with bottled water and soft drinks. Beer, wine and cava are also offered.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free sandwich options are available. If you have a dietary need, make that clear when arranging the trip so the crew can prepare accordingly. The food is simple and suited to an outing at sea, rather than a full restaurant meal. You can eat while taking in the scenery, then return to watching for marine life.

The drinks selection is generous for a small-group sailing trip. Still, keep your own comfort in mind: alcohol and a moving boat are not an ideal mix for everyone. Water is provided, and it is sensible to drink that too, especially if the sun is strong.

What the three-hour schedule means

The tour lasts approximately three hours. The stated coastal stop at Los Gigantes is about two hours, with the remaining time used for the wider outing, including sailing and the swim or snorkel break. The schedule is not a promise that each part will happen to the minute. Wind, sea state and wildlife can affect how the captain uses the time.

This is a good length if you want a proper outing without giving up most of the day. You will have time to settle into the boat, see the coast, watch for animals, eat and swim. If you want a full-day sailing trip, this is not that; if you only want a short ride, three hours may feel like a commitment.

Be punctual. The departure point is at Third Element Charters Whale Watching & Sailing Charters, Calle Poblado Marinero, s/n, Pantalán 1, Atraque 156, 38683, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The activity returns to the same meeting point. Parking time can be tight, so build in a cushion rather than arriving at the last minute.

Crew, languages and the small-group feel

The crew is repeatedly singled out for warmth and attentiveness. Jaime, Eileen and David are among the names associated with trips, alongside other crew members. Their role is more than steering: they explain marine life, respond to questions and help make the outing comfortable for different ages and needs.

English is offered. A German guide is not available on Sundays and Mondays, so keep that in mind if you need German-language guidance. Some trips have also accommodated more than one language, but English is the stated offering and should be your baseline when planning.

The crew’s personal approach is especially useful for families. The boat has hosted groups with children and adults, and guides have taken time to explain things to each family. That does not mean every child will love three hours at sea, but the small headcount gives the crew more opportunity to help than a crowded excursion usually allows.

Service animals are allowed, and most people can participate. The tour information does not provide a detailed mobility assessment, so contact the operator directly if you have specific access needs or concerns about boarding.

Is $90.70 good value?

At about $90.70 per person, this costs more than a basic group boat ride, but it includes several parts of a day out: a small-group sailing trip, a scenic route, wildlife watching, a swimming and snorkeling stop, sandwiches, fruit, snacks and drinks. You are also paying for a boat with room to move and a crew that can give individual attention.

The value depends on what matters to you. If your only goal is to see a whale at the lowest possible price, a larger, simpler boat may suit you better. If you want the cliffs, a sailboat, a small group and time in the water, the package makes better sense. The food and drinks are a useful inclusion, not the main reason to book.

The price also cannot buy a guaranteed sighting. Think of the whales and dolphins as a possible highlight, not a contract. Even without them, the cliffs, sailing and swim stop make up the outing. If a particular species is the whole point of your trip, that uncertainty may be frustrating.

Practical details before you book

The tour is offered with a mobile ticket. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking and is subject to availability. It is listed as near public transportation, but the meeting point is at the marina, so check your route and allow time to find the exact berth.

Weather matters. If poor weather cancels the trip, you are offered another date or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time; cancellations or changes made inside that window are not accepted for a refund.

Pack swimwear, a towel, sun protection and any snorkeling gear you want to use. Bring a light layer if you prefer one on the water, though no specific clothing requirements are provided. Above all, arrive with enough time to park and find the boat. Missing the departure would be a costly way to learn the marina layout.

Who should book this Los Gigantes sail?

This outing is a strong fit if you want a small, personal boat trip that combines scenery, wildlife and a swim. It suits couples, families with children who are comfortable on boats, and anyone who prefers conversation with the crew to loud commentary from a packed vessel. The included food and drinks also make it easy to settle in for the full three hours.

Think twice if you need a guaranteed whale sighting, dislike open water, or would rather spend the day on land. Snorkeling is part of the plan, but it is a short stop within a sailing trip, not the sole focus. If you are ready for a relaxed morning or afternoon on the sea, and can accept that wildlife is unpredictable, this is a worthwhile way to see Los Gigantes from the water.

FAQ

How long is the Los Gigantes sailing trip?

The trip lasts approximately three hours. The coastal stop around Los Gigantes is listed at about two hours.

What is the price?

The listed price is $90.70 per person.

How many people can join?

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers.

Where does the tour start?

Meet at Third Element Charters Whale Watching & Sailing Charters, Calle Poblado Marinero, s/n, Pantalán 1, Atraque 156, 38683, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Where does the tour end?

The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Are food and drinks included?

Yes. The tour includes sandwiches, freshly cut fruit, snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, beer, wine and cava.

Are dietary options available?

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free sandwich options are available.

Are towels included?

No. Towels are not included.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, English is offered. The German guide is not available on Sundays and Mondays.

What happens if bad weather cancels the trip?

You will be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.