Los Gigantes: Whale or dolphin watching and swimming tour in Masca

If you’re visiting Tenerife and looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, the Los Gigantes boat tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife spotting, breathtaking scenery, and relaxing water activities. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, numerous glowing reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a genuine connection with nature in a comfortable setting.

What really makes this experience stand out are the close encounters with whales and dolphins, the chance to swim in Masca Bay beneath towering cliffs, and the spectacular views along the Los Gigantes cliffs. Plus, the friendly guides and good value for money are often highlighted as key perks. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers mention the duration might feel a little quick, especially if you’re eager to spend more time with marine life.

This tour seems best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy wildlife, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed boat experience — especially those who appreciate natural beauty without over-complication. If you’re after an authentic, fun, and reasonably priced day out on the water, this trip likely won’t disappoint.

This experience made our article of Tenerife’s 13 Best Dolphin Watching Experiences.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Many guests see dolphins, pilot whales, and even Bryde whales in their natural environment.
• Stunning Scenery: Sail past the impressive Los Gigantes Cliffs and enjoy panoramic views.
• Swim and Relax: The stop at Masca Bay offers a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.
• Value for Money: The tour includes guiding, wildlife viewing, a drink, and a swim for a reasonable price.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with wheelchair accessibility and a relaxed pace.
• Expert Guides: Guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience informative and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Overview of the Experience

This 2-hour boat trip from Los Gigantes is designed to combine wildlife sightings, scenic cruising, and water-based relaxation. Starting from the harbor, you’ll hop aboard a smaller vessel that’s perfect for getting close to the action — no giant cruise ships here, which means a more intimate atmosphere and better chances of seeing marine life.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: C. Pob. Marinero, 1, local 21

Your adventure begins at this central marina location, where you’ll check in and meet your crew. Arriving a bit early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and get ready for the fun.

The Speedboat Ride (30 minutes)

The trip kicks off with a fast-paced cruise, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the wind and sea spray. This part of the journey is as much about the thrill as it is about setting the mood for the marine encounters ahead.

Whale and Dolphin Watching near Los Gigantes (15 minutes)

This is the core highlight — watching whales or dolphins in their natural habitat. Reviewers frequently mention sightings of pilot whales and dolphins, with some even catching glimpses of Bryde whales. Guides like Juan and Carlos are noted for their knowledgeable commentary and friendly attitude, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Richard, one of the reviewers, shared that they saw pilot whales and that the crew was quick to assist if anyone fell into the water. This attentiveness fosters a safe and welcoming environment, especially important if you’re traveling with children or less confident swimmers.

Second Speedboat Segment (30 minutes)

This part of the tour offers a different perspective, letting you enjoy the coast from the water and spot more marine life. As Gints put it, the views and the chance to see whales in action make this stretch well worth it.

Scenic Views and Relaxation (30 minutes)

The last leg takes you along the cliffs, offering spectacular views of Los Gigantes. Here, you can relax, take photos, or soak in the scenery while the crew offers you a cold drink — water, a soft drink, or beer, depending on your preference.

Stop at Masca Bay for a Swim

The highlight for many is the swimming stop at Masca Bay. The bay’s crystal-clear waters and striking cliffs make it an ideal spot to cool down after the excitement of spotting marine life. Reviewers like Lina describe it as a “beautiful experience,” emphasizing how refreshing and scenic the water is.

Note: Snorkeling gear isn’t included, though many bring their own. As one reviewer, Greta, mentioned, the stop might feel brief, but it’s enough to enjoy a quick dip or just relax by the water. Be prepared for a swim from the boat into deep water if you choose to enter the bay.

Returning to the Harbor

The tour wraps up with a scenic cruise back to the starting point, giving you one last look at the cliffs and possibly more wildlife if you’re lucky. Guides generally keep the atmosphere lively, sometimes with music, but a few guests, like Petra, mention the music can be a bit loud for those seeking a quieter experience.

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What’s Included and What to Consider

Included

• Whale or dolphin watching — an experience that’s often described as awe-inspiring, especially when animals come close to the boat.
• Swimming stop at Masca Bay — perfect for cooling off and enjoying the waters.
• A drink (water, soft drink, or beer) to refresh after the water activities.
• Guides — knowledgeable and friendly, adding value with their commentary.
• Insurance — ensuring peace of mind during your adventure.

Not Included

• Snorkeling equipment — if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own gear.
• Pick-up service — the tour starts at a designated meeting point, so plan accordingly.
• Toilets — not available on the boat itself, but facilities are nearby at the harbor.

Meeting Points and Duration

The meeting point is at Maritima Acantilados or the Nashira Uno Office, both centrally located in Los Gigantes harbor. The tour duration is around 2 hours, with some flexibility depending on marine activity and weather conditions. Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability in advance.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a towel, sunscreen, goggles, and snorkeling gear if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Arrive early to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.
• If you’re sensitive to loud music, consider bringing earplugs or requesting a quieter spot on the boat.
• Be prepared for a short swim from the boat into deep water — a quick descent that can be exciting or intimidating depending on your comfort level.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast — wind can sometimes affect marine life sightings and comfort during the ride.

Reviews Insights: Authentic Experiences

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with many mentioning guides like Juan and Carlos by name. Their tips and explanations often enhance the experience, making wildlife sightings more meaningful.

Seeing pilot whales and dolphins is a common highlight, with some reports of seeing three different dolphin species and a variety of whales. Guests appreciate the respectful approach of the operators, especially those who are concerned about the welfare of the animals — a point that many reviews note positively.

Guests also value the value for money, as the tour combines wildlife viewing, a scenic cruise, and a swimming stop all in just two hours. Many mention how the small boat size offers a more intimate experience, allowing closer wildlife encounters.

The scenic cruise along Los Gigantes Cliffs often earns praise for its breathtaking views, especially during the return journey. The combination of marine wildlife, scenery, and water activities seems to hit the sweet spot for most travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a great balance of adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Tenerife without large crowds or overly structured activities. The wildlife sightings are often a highlight, especially if you’re lucky enough to see whales and dolphins close to the boat.

The swimming stop in Masca Bay adds a refreshing break, perfect for cooling off and enjoying the pristine waters. The value for money, combined with knowledgeable guides, makes this a popular choice for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a fun, authentic experience.

If your goal is to see marine life up close, enjoy spectacular scenery, and have a relaxed water adventure, this trip ticks all those boxes. Just remember to bring your camera, some sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most ages, though the swimming stop involves a descent into deep water, so consider comfort levels.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
No, snorkeling gear is not included, so you’ll need to bring your own if you want to snorkel during the stop.

What is the best time of day to join?
Check available starting times; generally, morning or early afternoon trips tend to have good chances of wildlife sightings and calmer seas.

Is there any chance of missing marine species?
While sightings are common, they depend on weather and sea conditions. Guides do their best to find wildlife, but nature can be unpredictable.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, goggles, snorkeling gear (if you have it), and a camera. A hat and some water are also recommended for comfort.

Does the tour include any food or snacks?
No, but you can purchase drinks on board, and there are restaurants and cafes nearby at the port.

Final Verdict

This whale, dolphin, and scenic boat tour in Los Gigantes offers an authentic taste of Tenerife’s marine and coastal beauty. With positive reviews emphasizing friendly guides, beautiful views, and good value, it’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting to combine wildlife watching with a relaxing water excursion. Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers, this experience captures the essence of outdoor adventures in the Canary Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: