Los Cristianos: Whale Watching Cruise w/Swim Stop & Drinks

Imagine setting sail on a ship styled after the legendary Vikings, with the chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural home, enjoy some refreshing drinks, and even take a dip in the Atlantic. That’s precisely what this 3-hour whale watching cruise from Los Cristianos offers—and it’s surprisingly memorable.

What makes this experience so appealing? First, it’s the spectacular views of Tenerife’s southern coast from the water, giving a fresh perspective on the island’s stunning scenery. Second, the opportunity to see dolphins and whales up close, often swimming near the boat, makes this tour feel like a genuine wildlife encounter. Third, the Viking theme injects a fun, theatrical touch that’s perfect for families and groups looking for more than just a boat ride.

One thing to keep in mind is that whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, as they’re wild creatures, but reviews suggest that many guests get lucky. This tour is best suited for those who love a blend of nature, history, and lively entertainment, and who don’t mind a bit of sea spray and boat rocking.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Frequent sightings of dolphins and whales provide unforgettable photo moments.
• Viking-Themed Fun: Entertaining staff and themed activities add a memorable, playful touch.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Admire the coastline, cliffs, beaches, and El Teide volcano from the water.
• Swim Stop: Enjoy a relaxing swim or snorkel in crystal-clear Atlantic waters.
• Drinks Included: Beer, wine, and other drinks flow freely throughout the trip.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with some reviews highlighting fun for children and seniors alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting from Puerto de Los Cristianos, this tour kicks off with a brief safety briefing before boarding the Viking ship Ragnarok. The boat itself is a sight—styled with authentic Viking touches, giving a fun, immersive feel from the start. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, guides guests through the exciting 3-hour adventure, which typically includes whale and dolphin spotting, scenic cruising, and a chance to swim.

Setting Sail and Wildlife Watching

Departing from Los Cristianos harbor, the boat glides into waters between Tenerife and La Gomera. These waters are known for their frequent sightings of dolphins and whales, and guests often report that they come quite close to the vessel, making for excellent photo opportunities. One reviewer noted, “We saw pilot whales swimming nearby, and the crew was very respectful, keeping their distance to avoid disturbing the animals.”

The crew, including guides like Gunner and Mathias, are knowledgeable and engaging, providing information about the animals and the local ecosystem. Several guests commented on how the crew’s enthusiasm and professionalism enhanced the experience. For instance, “The crew knew exactly what to do when we saw whales and dolphins and made sure everyone got a good view,” one review states.

Scenic Coastal Views and Wildlife Close-Ups

As the boat cruises along the coast, you’ll pass Playa de Las Américas, Adeje, and stunning cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea. If weather permits, you’ll get views of El Teide volcano, an iconic backdrop that adds to the landscape’s grandeur. Many guests mention how this part of the trip offers a beautiful, panoramic perspective of Tenerife’s varied terrain.

Swim and Snorkel Opportunities

After the wildlife viewing, the boat anchors near cliffs and beaches, providing a rare chance to swim or snorkel in the Atlantic’s clear waters. The fish are colorful, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a sea turtle or two. The experience is relaxed, with life jackets available for less confident swimmers, and guests report that the water is inviting and refreshing.

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Viking-Themed Entertainment and Activities

A distinctive feature of this cruise is the Viking theme, complete with face painting, fun props, and theatrical staff dressed as Vikings. Reviewers mention that this adds a playful, family-friendly vibe—perfect for kids and those young at heart. The Viking actors, like Gunner, make the experience light and lively, creating a memorable atmosphere. The entertainment is interactive and well-received, making the trip fun beyond just the wildlife sightings.

Drinks and Food Options

Throughout the trip, guests can enjoy complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks, which keep the atmosphere lively. A bar onboard offers snacks and additional food, available for purchase if you’re hungry after swimming or wildlife watching. Several guests highlight the great value of this included drinks package, noting it helps make the experience feel relaxed and social.

Practicalities and Tips

The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, departing from Los Cristianos around the designated starting time (check availability for exact details). Arriving at least 15 minutes early ensures a smooth boarding process. The boat is wheelchair accessible but prefers manual wheelchairs for safety reasons. Restrooms are available on the vessel, making it comfortable for all.

What to bring? Sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen are essentials. Given the choppy nature of the Atlantic, some travelers recommend taking seasickness tablets if you’re prone to motion sickness, as a few reviews mention the water can be lively.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable crew and engaging guides, with many noting how much they appreciated the respectful wildlife encounters. A family shared that even when their son was seasick, the crew was quick to assist and considerate—a sign of good service.

The entertainment aspect also receives high marks, with one reviewer remarking how the Viking actors made the trip fun, especially for children. Others appreciated the value for money, highlighting that the inclusion of drinks and the chance to swim made it a well-rounded experience.

While some guests mention that dolphins or whales aren’t always visible, most agree that the overall experience, scenic views, and friendly atmosphere make up for this uncertainty. A few reviews note that the trip can run slightly late, but that’s a small trade-off for the fun and memorable moments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends who want a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and entertainment. It’s great for those who appreciate a relaxed pace with opportunities to swim and take photos. The Viking theme adds a quirky, fun touch—perfect if you enjoy themed experiences or are traveling with kids.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who want an affordable, all-in-one excursion—with drinks, entertainment, wildlife, and scenic cruising—all wrapped into a three-hour package.

The Sum Up

In terms of value, this whale watching cruise from Los Cristianos hits all the right notes. The chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, combined with scenic coastal views and the fun Viking theme, creates a memorable outing that’s suitable for many kinds of travelers. The inclusion of drinks and the option to swim makes it a well-rounded experience that feels generous and relaxed.

While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the positive reviews and the crew’s professionalism suggest that most guests will leave with plenty of photos and stories to share. The boat’s lively, friendly atmosphere makes this trip a highlight for anyone wanting a slice of Tenerife’s marine life and scenic beauty without sacrificing comfort or fun.

If you’re looking for a lively, family-friendly adventure that combines nature with a dash of theatrical fun, this cruise is worth considering. Just remember to arrive prepared for the sun, water, and the possibility of lively seas—you’re in for a good time either way.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, including wildlife watching, swimming, and scenic cruising.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Puerto de Los Cristianos, specifically from the boarding gate in Zone Excursion A, next to the beach.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the Viking-themed entertainment and swimming stop make it great for families, though keep seasickness in mind.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beer, wine, and soft drinks are available throughout the trip at no extra cost.

Can I buy food onboard?
Food is available for purchase at the onboard bar, with options like burgers and snacks.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, but they recommend manual wheelchairs for safety reasons.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen are recommended.

What if I don’t see whales or dolphins?
Wildlife sightings depend on nature, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but many guests report good luck.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: