Adeje Classic Schooner: Whales, lunch & Los Gigantes Cliffs

If you’re looking for a laid-back day out on the water in Tenerife, the Adeje Classic Schooner promises a memorable blend of marine wildlife, stunning scenery, and tasty food. This 5-hour cruise aboard a traditional wooden schooner offers a chance to spot whales and dolphins, enjoy a refreshing swim beneath the towering Los Gigantes cliffs, and savor a well-cooked onboard lunch.

What really sets this experience apart are its warm, friendly atmosphere, the informative guides, and the delicious lunch with drinks included. Yet, it’s worth noting that sightings of larger whales aren’t guaranteed, as with all wildlife tours. But if you’re an ocean lover, a family seeking fun, or someone who enjoys relaxing boat rides, this trip will likely hit the spot.

Here are three things we love about this cruise: the intimate sailing experience on a gorgeous traditional schooner, the chance to see marine life in its natural environment, and the value of the inclusive food and drinks. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the sea can sometimes be choppy, which may not suit everyone. This tour tends to suit those craving a relaxed, authentic day at sea with plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Key Points

• Unique vessel: Sail on a beautifully maintained Arabian-style wooden schooner.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect regular sightings of pilot whales and dolphins year-round.
• Well-rounded experience: Combines marine viewing, swimming, and a tasty onboard lunch.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children, with life jackets supplied and a friendly crew.
• All-inclusive: Soft drinks, water, wine, and beer during lunch are included.
• Respectful wildlife observation: The boat is Blue Flag certified, ensuring responsible encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Puerto Colón

The adventure begins at Puerto Colón, a popular departure point in Costa Adeje, with boarding starting 30 minutes before the scheduled time. The boat, called Shogun, is a classic Arabian schooner with a charming wooden exterior that immediately hints at a relaxing, old-world vibe. You’ll find the crew welcoming, knowledgeable, and ready to make sure everyone feels comfortable, regardless of age or experience.

Once all aboard, the gentle cruise along Tenerife’s southwest coast kicks off. This area is known for its calm waters and consistent whale sightings, making it ideal for a day trip. The crew, including guides like Andy, are praised for their friendliness and lively commentary, sharing interesting facts about local marine life and the cliffs of Los Gigantes.

Encountering Marine Life: Whales & Dolphins

One of the main draws of this tour is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Tenerife’s waters are home to resident pilot whales that are spotted year-round, so there’s a high likelihood of a sighting. Many reviews mention seeing dolphins and pilot whales within minutes of setting sail—something that adds an element of surprise and excitement.

As one reviewer, Mykola, put it, “a lot of food, very friendly guys and of course magic dolphins.” While sightings are never guaranteed—nature can be unpredictable—the crew’s experience and the waters’ reputation give plenty of reason to hope.

The guides do a great job of respecting the animals and giving informative commentary, which enriches the experience for both adults and children. Even if whales are shy or absent on a given day, dolphins are usually playful and often seen leaping alongside the boat, which is a treat for any wildlife enthusiast.

The Stop at Masca Bay and the Los Gigantes Cliffs

A highlight for many is the swimming stop in Masca Bay, a pristine, protected cove beneath the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes. The cliffs, soaring more than 600 meters tall, are among the most iconic sights in Tenerife, providing a jaw-dropping backdrop for the entire cruise.

While the schedule states that the stop is in Masca Bay, the crew always assesses sea conditions beforehand. Sometimes, this means the actual swimming spot may vary slightly for safety reasons—something many seasoned travelers appreciate rather than a disappointment. During reviews, guests like Lucy praise the “refreshing, clear water” and the “warm” temperature of the sea, making the swim a real highlight.

For those who prefer to stay dry, the view from the boat itself is spectacular, with sheer cliffs rising dramatically from the ocean. The crew supplies life jackets and float aids, so swimmers of all ages can feel secure while enjoying a quick dip or snorkeling if they wish.

The Onboard Lunch Experience

One of the standout features of this tour is the home-cooked buffet lunch served on deck. The menu includes vegetable rice, coleslaw, meatballs in tomato sauce, fresh bread, and banana for dessert—all simple but well-prepared and satisfying. Reviews note that the food was “really nice” and that the crew is attentive about catering to guest preferences.

During lunch, adults can enjoy wines and beers, which are included in the package, adding a social and relaxing element to the cruise. Water and soft drinks are available throughout the trip, so hydration is never an issue. Guests, like Lucy, mention the “great cocktails” and the lively atmosphere created by the crew, making the meal feel like a small celebration.

The overall vibe during lunch tends to be informal and friendly—more of a communal gathering than a formal sit-down meal. This makes the experience perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to enjoy good food in good company.

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The Return Journey and Additional Highlights

As the boat gently sails back to Puerto Colón, the relaxed atmosphere continues. Many guests report spotting more dolphins or just enjoying the breezy scenery. The crew often offers moments for photos—like children getting their picture with the captain—which adds a personal touch.

Guests frequently mention the friendly crew, especially guides like Andy, who keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging. The music played on board is a mix of classics that everyone knows and loves, and the crew are happy to take song requests, adding to the fun.

In the reviews, people also highlight the value for money, especially considering the included drinks, lunch, and wildlife sightings. For a modest price of around $65 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that leaves most guests feeling satisfied.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: About 5 hours, from boarding to return, making it a manageable half-day trip.
• Group size: Usually small to moderate groups, fostering a friendly, intimate environment.
• Transport options: Optional hotel pickup is available, which is a bonus for those staying outside the immediate vicinity.
• Seasickness: The waters are generally calm, but if you’re prone to seasickness, medication is recommended.
• Parking: Pay parking is nearby, and since parking in the area can be limited, arriving early is advised.
• Weather: Bring layers, as ocean breezes can be cool—even on warm days.
• Pets: Small pets under 12 kg are permitted but should stay with their owner and aren’t allowed in water.
• Booking: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, thanks to its safe, relaxed environment and the availability of life jackets for children. It suits nature lovers eager to see marine life in the wild, especially since pilot whales are residents year-round. Couples and friends will appreciate the friendly atmosphere, the onboard food, and the opportunity to unwind while taking in stunning views.

It’s especially good for travelers seeking authentic experiences—sailing on a traditional schooner, enjoying local food and drink, and witnessing the natural beauty of Tenerife’s coast. If you want a mix of wildlife, scenery, and leisure, this trip delivers on all counts.

The Sum Up

The Adeje Classic Schooner offers a genuine, relaxed way to explore Tenerife’s marine environment and scenic coastlines. Its combination of whale and dolphin watching, the spectacular Los Gigantes cliffs, and a delicious onboard lunch makes it a well-rounded choice for those who want an authentic and enjoyable day at sea.

While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the friendly guides, responsible approach, and enjoyable atmosphere mean most guests leave with lasting memories. The inclusive drinks, family-friendly vibe, and stunning scenery make this tour a great value—especially for travelers looking to combine nature, culture, and fun in one gentle cruise.

This experience is perfect for those who value authenticity, want a comfortable boat ride, and enjoy sharing the day with others. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or with friends, the Adeje Classic Schooner promises a peaceful yet exciting escape into Tenerife’s oceanic wonders.

FAQ

Will we definitely see whales or dolphins? Sightings are very likely since pilot whales live year-round in these waters. However, as with all wildlife tours, sightings depend on animal presence and behavior, so guarantees aren’t possible.

Can children swim during the stop? Yes, children can swim if they wish, with life jackets and float aids provided. The crew monitors safety closely, and swimming depends on sea conditions on the day.

Is the boat safe for families? Absolutely. The Shogun is fully licensed, Blue-Flag certified, and equipped with all necessary safety gear. Crew members are welcoming to children of all ages.

What languages does the crew speak? The crew speaks English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian, ensuring good communication with most travelers.

Are drinks included? Water and soft drinks are available throughout the cruise, and wine and beer are included during lunch only.

How long is the cruise? The total trip lasts around 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, there’s an optional pickup and drop-off service available during booking.

What should I bring? Pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and layers for the ocean breeze.

What is the meeting point? The tour departs from Puerto Colón, Pier number 14, next to the petrol station.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation or changes can be made up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexible planning.

In summary, if you’re after a gentle, scenic, wildlife-focused day with good food and friendly guides, this cruise delivers. It balances adventure with comfort, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers eager to enjoy Tenerife’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: