Planning a day on the water in Tenerife is already exciting, but a tour that combines whale watching, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to swim sounds like a true winner. This 5-hour excursion from Adeje offers much more than just spotting marine life — it’s a well-rounded experience filled with stunning vistas, good food, and memorable moments.
From the moment you set sail, you’ll be immersed in nature’s beauty, with the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. You’ll also get to marvel at the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes, enjoy a tasty onboard lunch, and take a refreshing swim in the clear Atlantic waters. Despite a few considerations, this trip generally scores high for its value and authentic experience, making it ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a fun and scenic day out at sea.
What We Love About This Tour
- Marine wildlife sightings are the main highlight, with many reviewers mentioning the sighting of pilot whales, dolphins, and even sharks.
- The stunning views of Los Gigantes’ cliffs, which rise more than 600 meters, provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for your journey.
- The all-inclusive lunch and drinks — featuring beer, wine, and soft drinks — add a relaxing touch without extra costs.
- The swimming stop in a bay under the cliffs offers a perfect opportunity to cool off and enjoy the welcoming, transparent waters.
One Possible Drawback
Some travelers report that the boat can sway quite a bit, especially in rougher seas, which might cause seasickness. If you’re sensitive, consider bringing motion sickness remedies. Also, the boat’s interior and seating may fill up quickly, so early arrival is encouraged.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Tenerife
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits those eager to see marine life in a natural setting, enjoy scenic landscapes, and indulge in good food and drink. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who don’t mind boat motion and want a relaxed, enjoyable day on the water.
Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with some reviews mentioning pilot whales and even sharks.
- Spectacular Scenery: The cliffs of Los Gigantes are more than 600 meters tall, providing breathtaking photo opportunities.
- All-Inclusive Experience: Lunch, soft drinks, beer, and wine are included, offering great value and eliminating extra costs.
- Swim in Clear Waters: The bay stop under the cliffs is perfect for a refreshing swim in inviting, transparent waters.
- Relaxed Duration: The 5-hour trip balances wildlife viewing, sightseeing, eating, and swimming, making it manageable without feeling rushed.
- Guides and Service: Reviewers praise the staff for their friendliness, attentiveness, and good humor, especially a crew member named Andy who keeps the atmosphere lively.
The Experience in Detail
Departure and Transportation
Most tours start at Puerto Colón, with boarding beginning 15 minutes before departure. The journey involves a bus or coach transfer from various pickup points, typically lasting around 2.5 hours. If you’re staying in Costa Adeje or nearby, this makes for a straightforward start. Many reviewers noted that the transportation is smooth and comfortable, with some mentioning the benefit of arriving directly at the pier if you have your own car.
Hope to spot more marine life? These other whale watching options in Tenerife are worth considering
- Whale Watching Eco-Adventure From Costa Adeje
- Whales Listening Eco-Catamaran Tour With Food Tasting
- No Chase Whale & Dolphin Tour Putting Marine Life First – We Care
- Whale Watching Catamaran to Los Gigantes & Masca (Including Drinks & Warm Lunch)
- Los Gigantes Whale Watching Charter by Sail Boat
- 3-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching and Listening Tour
Marine Life Watching
The main draw is undoubtedly the chance to see whales and dolphins. The tour usually departs around 11:00 AM, heading out in search of pilot whales and dolphins, which are frequently spotted. Guests have reported seeing several pods during their trip, with some reviews calling out the “magic dolphins” they encountered. The trip includes a 30-minute stop for whale watching in a designated area, which allows for close-up viewing in a natural setting.
A review from a guest named Mykola even describes the experience as “amazing,” highlighting the friendly crew and the out-of-this-world sightings. The guide and crew are experienced, making sure everyone gets a good look and learns about the marine life.
The Cliff of Los Gigantes
After wildlife spotting, the boat sails toward the imposing cliffs of Los Gigantes. These vertical walls, towering more than 600 meters, are among the most stunning natural sights on Tenerife. Approaching these cliffs offers great photo opportunities, especially as the boat anchors in a small bay beneath them.
Many guests describe the cliffs as “breathtaking,” with some mentioning the impressive scale and the serenity of the place. It’s a great spot to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or simply marvel at nature’s grandeur.
Lunch and Swimming
Once anchored in the bay, the tour shifts gears from sightseeing to relax mode. A buffet-style lunch is served onboard, with a variety of food and soft drinks included. Reviewers have praised the quality of the meal, describing it as tasty and plentiful. Many mention enjoying the beer and wine, which are part of the package, making the meal even more enjoyable.
Following lunch, guests are free to swim in the inviting waters. The bay’s calm, clear waters are perfect for cooling off, and many travelers take the opportunity to snorkel and explore beneath the surface. Reviews from visitors like Susan describe the swim as “very enjoyable,” and the water’s transparency makes for great underwater photos.
Return Journey
After the swim and lunch, the boat departs for the return trip along Tenerife’s southwestern coast. This part of the journey allows for relaxing, taking in the scenery, or chatting with fellow travelers. Some reviews mention that the crew keeps the atmosphere lively with music, adding to the fun.
Additional Practical Details
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and includes multiple stops, wildlife viewing, swimming, and a generous onboard meal. Language options for guides include Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers.
What to bring? Travelers are advised to pack sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. Seasickness can be an issue for some, so if you are prone, consider taking remedies beforehand.
Cost and value: For the price, guests get a significant amount of activity, including transportation, food, drinks, and a memorable wildlife experience. Many reviewers emphasize the value, especially considering the quality of the food and the chance to see whales in their natural environment.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Reviewers’ comments highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Alexander notes how smoothly everything ran, from pickup to the day’s activities. Many mention the team’s enthusiasm, especially a crew member named Andy, who “kept the atmosphere lively” and went above and beyond, even helping with taxis after the trip.
Food and drinks are consistently praised, with some guests describing the buffet as “delicious,” and the cocktails as “awesome.” The relaxed vibe onboard, combined with the impressive scenery and marine encounters, make this trip a favorite among those who want a mix of adventure and leisure.
A few guests, like Serena, note that the boat can sway a lot, which might not be suitable for those with seasickness issues. The interior seating and boat conditions are generally good, but early arrival is recommended for the best spots.
The Verdict
This whale watching tour to Los Gigantes offers a well-organized, enjoyable day out in Tenerife. It balances wildlife sightings with breathtaking scenery, tasty food, and the chance to cool off with a swim. The inclusive drinks and friendly crew add to the relaxed, festive vibe.
While the boat’s movement might be a concern for some, the overall experience delivers excellent value for those wanting an authentic adventure in the Atlantic. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate nature, scenic landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This trip is best for marine life lovers eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment. Families with children, couples seeking a romantic day, or solo travelers looking to meet new friends will find it appealing.
If you’re after a scenic, relaxing day that combines wildlife, stunning geology, good food, and swimming, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to bring seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive, arrive early for the best seats, and prepare for a fun, memorable adventure.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, most options include a bus or coach transfer from various pickup points, typically lasting around 2.5 hours each way. If you have your own car, you can arrive directly at Puerto Colón.
What is the duration of the tour?
The complete experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including wildlife watching, sightseeing, lunch, and swimming stops.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before the trip.
Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beer, and wine are part of the package, and they are available during lunch. Photos and videos are not included but can be purchased separately.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since the activity includes swimming and is relatively relaxed. However, seasickness could be a concern, so consider the boat’s sway if traveling with young children.
What is the best time of year for this tour?
While specific seasons aren’t detailed, marine life sightings are generally good year-round. Check availability for your preferred dates.
In summary, this whale watching and scenic cruise from Adeje offers an authentic, fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters, scenic photography, and relaxation. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a well-rounded, value-packed experience in Tenerife.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Whale Watching Tours in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling
- 2 hour trip to see whales dolphins puerto colon adeje
- SEA SAFARI Dolphins, Whales, 3h speedboat DISCOVERY-TOUR
- Whale and dolphin watching tour Los Gigantes and Masca in small groups
- Royal Delfin – 2Hour Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching Mini Cruise
- Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip
More Lunch Experiences in Tenerife
- Tenerife: PRIVATE Catamaran cruise with Lunch and Drinks
- Puerto Cruz: VIP Teide Sunset & Stars, Guachiche Lunch+Cava
- Adeje: Whale Watching Tour to Los Gigantes with lunch & swim
- The Cookies: Private Luxury Yacht Cruise With Lunch
- Tenerife: PRIVATE Catamaran Cruise With Lunch and Drinks
- From Puerto Colón: Private Fishing Boat Charter With Lunch
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Private tour Tenerife: Teide National Park + Restaurant
- Tenerife: Teide Night Hike to Watch Sunrise and Shadow
- San Cristobal de La Laguna : Cathedral ticket w/ audioguide
- Tenerife: Quad bike tour to visit Teide National Park
- From Tenerife: Day Trip to La Palma Volcanic Landscapes
- Puerto de la Cruz: Buggy Teide National Park
Still browsing? Here are more Tenerife experiences we've covered recently
- PADI Discover Scuba Diving Course in Tenerife
- Saturday Ocean Yoga in Playa de las Américas (All Levels)
- Private tour Tenerife: Teide National Park + Restaurant
- Tenerife: Teide Night Hike to Watch Sunrise and Shadow
- San Cristobal de La Laguna : Cathedral ticket w/ audioguide
- Tenerife: Quad bike tour to visit Teide National Park
- From Tenerife: Day Trip to La Palma Volcanic Landscapes
- Puerto de la Cruz: Buggy Teide National Park
- Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling
- Paragliding in Puerto de la Cruz
- Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike in the laurel forest small group max. 10
- Gran Canaria Gran Tour