Whale and Dolphin Watching Sailing Tour – Los Gigantes (3H)

The best part of this Los Gigantes boat trip is the small yacht setting. With shared tours limited to about nine or ten people, you get room to watch for pilot whales and dolphins without the crowded feel of a large excursion boat. Skipper Antonio is often at the helm, sharing facts about the sea and pointing out wildlife, volcanic rock, and hidden coves.

I like the combination of wildlife watching and a swim stop. You are not stuck scanning the water for three hours, and the cove beneath the Cliffs of the Giants gives you a fine change of pace. I also like the relaxed food service: expect tortilla, cheese, cured meats, breadsticks, fruit, olives, and drinks rather than a formal meal.

The main caution is the ocean itself. Wildlife is never guaranteed, and some people have felt seasick on choppier days. The swimming period can also be short when the boat needs to keep to its return time, so book this for the sailing and wildlife, with swimming as a welcome extra.

Key points to know before booking

• Pilot whales are the main sighting: Dolphins, turtles, tuna, rays, and other fish are also possible, but animals remain wild.
• The yacht carries a small group: Shared trips usually have no more than nine or ten people, while private charters take up to ten.
• The 600-meter cliffs are a major part of the outing: The return sail beneath Los Gigantes gives you some of the best coastal views.
• Swimming and snorkeling are included: Gear is provided, though the water stop may last around 10 to 30 minutes depending on timing.
• Food is cold tapas-style fare: You get snacks, fruit, and drinks. Think a generous spread, not a restaurant lunch.
• Antonio receives frequent praise: His calm style, sailing skill, and interest in marine life add much to the trip when he is your skipper.

Sailing from Los Gigantes on El Mojo Picón

Your three-hour outing begins at MPC Yacht Charter in the port of Los Gigantes. Bring your confirmation voucher and look for the 14-meter sailing yacht El Mojo Picón. One useful practical point is that the meeting place may not look like a conventional ticket office, so follow the directions to the pier and check the boat name on the boom.

The yacht is large enough for a small shared group to spread out. You can sit near the front, find a place along the side, or settle in while the crew handles the sailing. The limited group size matters here. It gives you a better chance to ask questions, move around for photographs, and watch the water without competing with a large crowd.

The crew speaks Spanish, English, and French. Antonio is the skipper most often named in the tour information, and his role goes beyond steering. He explains the marine life, talks about the local coast, and keeps the mood easy without turning the trip into a nonstop lecture.

This is a sailing trip, but conditions affect how much sailing you actually get. The crew may use the engine when needed to reach wildlife areas or keep the schedule. That is normal for a three-hour marine excursion, and responsible wildlife viewing requires patience and careful boat handling.

Looking for pilot whales and dolphins offshore

The first major part of the trip is the search for cetaceans in the Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve. The waters around southwest Tenerife are known for regular sightings, especially pilot whales. Dolphins are also commonly seen, sometimes swimming alongside the boat for several minutes.

Pilot whales are often the star of the outing. You may see a family group moving together, including younger animals, or watch them surface close to the yacht. Some trips have also included turtles, tuna, rays, colorful fish, and other marine life. One particularly unusual sighting recorded on the tour was a hammerhead shark, but that is clearly an uncommon bonus rather than something to expect.

The boat crew’s approach is important. The captain cuts the engines well before getting too close to the whales, allowing the animals to move naturally and reducing disturbance. You may still see them near the boat, but the point is respectful observation, not forcing an encounter for a photograph.

Bring a camera, but keep it ready rather than staring at the screen. Wildlife appears quickly, and the best moment may last only a few seconds. A phone with a wrist strap or a secure case is sensible around the rail.

Morning departures can be a good choice. One experienced visitor specifically found the 10 a.m. start useful because pilot whales may be more active before afternoon. That is not a guarantee, but an earlier trip also leaves time for a swim stop and a relaxed return along the cliffs.

You should also pack a light jacket. The open water can feel cooler than the port, even on a warm Tenerife day, and the breeze increases while the boat is moving. If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking your usual motion-sickness medicine before departure. At least one outing included several people who felt ill, while others had a smooth ride, so your comfort will depend partly on sea conditions and personal sensitivity.

Turning toward the Cliffs of the Giants

Los Gigantes gets its name from the enormous volcanic cliffs that rise about 600 meters above the Atlantic. Seen from the water, the walls feel much larger than they do from a road or viewpoint. The yacht lets you study the rock faces from below, where their height and dark volcanic texture are especially striking.

This is the most reliable scenic part of the tour. Wildlife sightings vary, but the cliffs remain in place and make a strong backdrop for photographs. Keep your camera ready as the boat approaches the coast, then look up from the screen. The scale is easy to miss if you focus only on taking pictures.

The return route often passes close beneath the cliffs. It is a calm way to finish the coastal section, particularly after the excitement of seeing whales or dolphins. You might also see small beaches and coves that are hard to reach from land.

The water and rock views give the trip a good balance. You are not simply going out, circling an area, and returning. The route combines open-sea wildlife, Tenerife’s volcanic coast, and time in a sheltered place.

Swimming and snorkeling in a clear-water cove

The crew anchors in a natural cove where you can swim or snorkel. Masks and other snorkeling equipment are supplied, so you do not need to bring your own. Pack a towel and wear a swimsuit under your clothes if you want to get into the water without fuss.

The cove is a highlight for anyone who likes to see the coast from below. Fish have been spotted around the rocks, and several outings included colorful marine life and crabs. The Cliffs of the Giants provide a dramatic setting while you swim, which makes this feel different from an ordinary hotel-pool stop.

Do keep your expectations realistic about the timing. The swim has lasted about 10 minutes on one trip and around 30 minutes on another. The available time depends on the wildlife search, sea conditions, and the need to return to port on schedule. If swimming is your main goal, a dedicated snorkeling excursion may suit you better.

The water stop is best viewed as part of a wider day on the sea. You get a chance to cool off, try the equipment, and see fish, but the central purpose is still sailing and responsible wildlife watching.

Cold tapas, fruit, and drinks on the way back

After swimming, the crew serves food on board. The included spread has featured Spanish tortilla, local cheese, cured meats, olives, breadsticks, fruit skewers, and other small snacks. Drinks have included water, soft drinks, beer, and, on some trips, wine.

The word lunch may give you the wrong idea if you expect a hot, full-service meal. This is closer to a generous cold tapas plate or light boat buffet. It should satisfy you after snorkeling, but I would still eat a normal breakfast before departure, especially if you are joining the morning sailing.

Food is served in a relaxed setting, often while the boat drifts or begins the return journey. That works well because you can keep looking at the coast instead of sitting at a table for a formal meal. The local flavors also fit the setting better than a packaged sandwich would.

Private charters include a light brunch according to the activity details. Shared tours receive appetizers and drinks, with lunch listed among the inclusions. Because the exact spread can vary, treat it as snacks and light refreshment rather than plan your whole day around a substantial meal.

Is $76 good value for three hours?

At $76 per person, the price is not the cheapest way to get onto the water around Tenerife. It is also not simply a short whale-spotting ride. Your fare covers a three-hour sailing trip, a small group, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, drinks, and food.

The small-group format is the main value. Large boats can offer lower prices, but they usually provide less personal space and a less quiet setting. Here, a group of six to ten people can make the trip feel almost private, especially when the yacht is moving beneath the cliffs or anchored in the cove.

You are also paying for a sailing yacht rather than just transport. The boat itself is part of the experience, and the setting feels more personal than a basic motorboat outing. Add the chance to see pilot whales and dolphins, plus the swim stop and food, and the price is reasonable for someone who values comfort and a lower-capacity trip.

The value drops if you mainly want a long swim or a guaranteed wildlife encounter. Neither can be promised. You are paying for the chance to observe wild animals in their own habitat, with a scenic coastal route as the dependable part of the outing.

Who will enjoy this Los Gigantes cruise?

I would choose this tour for couples, families, and anyone who prefers a calm boat with fewer people. It suits you if you want wildlife, coastal views, a little snorkeling, and a pleasant meal in one half-day activity.

Children can enjoy it too. Families with children aged seven and ten have taken part, and one young child slept through much of the smooth sailing. Still, parents should consider the open water, the possible motion, and the limited swim time before booking.

It is a good fit for people who care about wildlife protection. The crew aims to keep a respectful distance and avoid frightening the animals. You may not get the closest possible photograph, but that is the right trade-off for a responsible encounter.

It is less suitable if you have serious heart problems or mobility limitations. The information describes the activity as wheelchair accessible but also says it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so contact MPC Yacht Charter before booking if this affects you. The operator can clarify the boat access and the practical conditions.

Practical details that make the day easier

Arrive at MPC Yacht Charter in advance with your confirmation voucher. Check the actual yacht at the pier rather than expecting a large shore office. The boat name is displayed on the boom, which helps you identify it.

Pack these basics:

• Towel
• Camera or phone
• Light jacket
• Swimsuit
• Motion-sickness medicine if you normally need it

Alcohol and drugs, fireworks, and explosive substances are not allowed. The tour includes drinks, and some trips have served wine or beer, but you should not bring your own alcohol on board.

The operator offers shared and private departures. A private charter can take up to ten people, making it useful for a family group, a birthday, or a special occasion. Shared trips are limited to about nine or ten people and usually offer the best balance of price and personal space.

The company also offers a sunset sailing trip. That is a separate option for people who care more about evening light and a quiet sail than a daytime swim and wildlife schedule.

Cancellation is flexible: you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund, and the reserve-now, pay-later option lets you hold a place without paying immediately. Starting times vary, so check availability before you settle your plans.

Should you book this whale-watching tour?

Book it if you want a small yacht, respectful wildlife viewing, and the Cliffs of the Giants in one outing. The strongest reasons are the limited group size, the chance of seeing pilot whales and dolphins, Antonio’s friendly and capable guiding when he is your skipper, and the easy mix of sailing, snorkeling, and tapas.

Skip it if you need a guaranteed animal sighting, a long snorkeling session, or a full hot lunch. The sea sets the schedule, and the swim may be brief.

For most visitors who want a relaxed three hours on the Atlantic, $76 is fair value. Choose a morning departure if possible, bring a jacket and towel, and board with the right expectation: the best moments come from watching wild animals appear on their own terms.

FAQ

Where does the whale and dolphin tour depart from?

The tour departs from MPC Yacht Charter at the port of Los Gigantes. Meet there in advance with your confirmation voucher and look for the yacht El Mojo Picón at the pier.

How long is the sailing trip?

The activity lasts three hours, including wildlife watching, coastal sailing, the cove stop, and the return to Los Gigantes.

How many people can join the shared cruise?

Shared trips are offered for a small group, generally no more than nine or ten people. Private charters can take up to ten people.

What animals might I see?

You may see pilot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, tuna, rays, and different types of fish. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed because the animals are in their natural habitat.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling gear and safety equipment are included in the tour.

Can I swim during the cruise?

Yes. The boat anchors at a natural cove where you can swim or snorkel. The length of the stop can vary, with reported swimming times ranging from about 10 to 30 minutes.

What food and drinks are provided?

The boat provides appetizers, fruit, and drinks. The food is generally cold tapas-style fare, such as tortilla, cheese, cured meats, olives, breadsticks, and fruit. Drinks can include water, soft drinks, beer, and wine.

Is this a full lunch?

The activity includes lunch in its details, but the food is best understood as a light cold meal or tapas spread rather than a hot restaurant lunch. Private charters include a light brunch.

Which languages does the crew speak?

The live guides speak Spanish, English, and French.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel, camera, and jacket. A swimsuit is useful if you plan to swim, and motion-sickness medicine may help if you are sensitive to boat movement.

Can I cancel my booking?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve-now, pay-later option is also available.

Is the activity suitable for wheelchair users?

The activity information describes it as wheelchair accessible but also says it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Contact MPC Yacht Charter directly to confirm whether the boat access works for your specific needs.