Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat

Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat

Embark on an exciting 2-hour speedboat trip from Los Gigantes port in Tenerife, Spain, for a chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. This tour, offered at $32 per person, promises guaranteed sightings depending on sea conditions, making it a popular choice for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The tour features a fast, rigid inflatable speedboat that takes you into the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, known as Europe’s top whale-watching location. Expect breathtaking views of Los Gigantes’ cliffs, a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, and close encounters with marine life—delivered with practical safety tips and a friendly skipper.

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Key Points

• Duration: 2 hours, starting from Los Gigantes port
• Price: $32 per person, with guaranteed sightings depending on sea conditions
• Vessel: Rigid inflatable speedboat for quick, close-up wildlife viewing
• Highlights: Watching whales and dolphins, sailing beside the towering cliffs, and swimming in pristine bays
• Best suited for: Travelers seeking an active, wildlife-focused experience with minimal fuss and a good value

Departing from Los Gigantes Port for Marine Wildlife Excursions

This tour departs from Los Gigantes port, a picturesque spot with a lively harbor and great views of the coast. After checking in 30 minutes before the scheduled start, guests board a small, 12-seat rigid inflatable speedboat, which enables a more intimate and flexible experience compared to larger vessels. The skipper leads the trip, committed to respecting marine life by turning off engines when animals are nearby.

The short, 2-hour duration means you get a compact but rich outing with plenty of opportunities for photo moments and wildlife observation. The tour timing varies, so it’s best to check availability and specific start times when booking.

Riding in a Rigid Inflatable Speedboat for a Thrilling Experience

Unlike typical larger whale-watching boats, this tour uses a small, nimble speedboat that allows you to get closer to marine mammals and navigate the waters swiftly. This small vessel means fewer people on board—max 12—giving you more space and freedom to move around.

The speedboat adds a touch of adrenaline, especially as it races across the waves towards the whale sanctuary. It’s a suitable choice for those who appreciate a dynamic, lively ride and want to maximize their chances of close-up encounters with marine wildlife.

Exploring the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, Europe’s Whale-Watching Hotspot

The trip takes you into the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, renowned for its large populations of whales and dolphins. The waters here are home to a variety of species, including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and occasional flying fish or sharks.

While sightings depend on sea conditions, the well-organized tour increases the likelihood of success. The guides are experienced at locating marine mammals and provide plenty of informative commentary about the animals’ behaviors and habitats.

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Watching Whales and Dolphins in Their Natural Environment

The main highlight of this tour is the opportunity to see whales and dolphins up close, often within 5 meters of the boat, as confirmed by multiple reviews. The captain carefully manages the boat to minimize disturbance, turning off engines when animals are nearby, which enhances the experience and respects marine life.

Expect to observe pilot whales, dolphins, and possibly other species. The speed and agility of the boat make it easier to follow pods and capture great photos of these creatures in their natural surroundings.

The Cliffs of Masca and Los Gigantes: An Unforgettable Backdrop

As you sail along the coast, you’ll pass the spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes and Masca, some reaching 600 meters high. These imposing cliffs create a dramatic setting for the marine adventure and are among the most notable features of Tenerife’s coastline.

The views are stunning whether the weather is clear or partly cloudy, and some tours include close passes to these cliffs for excellent photo opportunities. The towering cliffs are a major reason why this particular tour stands out among Tenerife’s whale-watching options.

Swimming Stops at Pristine Bays: Masca, Barranco Seco, and Juan López

After observing marine life, the boat anchors at a calm, secluded bay—such as Masca, Barranco Seco, or Juan López—for a swim in the clear waters. Reviewers highlight that this swimming break is a gorgeous highlight, offering a chance to cool off and enjoy the tranquil environment.

Guests are advised to bring swimwear, towels, and waterproof cameras to make the most of this opportunity. The small size of the boat makes it easier to enjoy a quick dip before heading back to port.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Safety Tips

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is hosted in Spanish, but the focus on wildlife watching makes language less critical. Pregnant women are welcome but do so at their own risk, and glass objects are not allowed on board for safety reasons.

Arriving at least 30 minutes early ensures a smooth check-in process, as late arrivals are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling. The tour cannot guarantee sightings, but it consistently delivers exciting encounters when sea conditions cooperate.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Marine Excursions

The small boat size and speed are the key differences that set this experience apart. Many reviews praise how close the boat gets to the animals, often within a few meters. The respectful approach of the captain, turning off engines during animal sightings, earns high marks.

The value for money is exceptional, considering the quality of the wildlife encounters, the breathtaking scenery, and the swimming stops. The enthusiastic, professional skippers and well-organized logistics contribute further to its reputation.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers guaranteed sightings, it is dependent on sea conditions, so sightings cannot be absolutely guaranteed. The 2-hour duration means a quick trip—some reviews mention that a longer experience could provide more time with the wildlife, but the pace suits those looking for a lively, action-packed outing.

The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years and not accessible for guests with certain mobility issues. Packing warm clothing is advised, especially in colder months, as it can get cool on the water.

Final Thoughts on the Los Gigantes Speedboat Dolphin and Whale Tour

This $32 experience offers a high-energy, close-up encounter with marine life, set against the spectacular backdrop of Tenerife’s cliffs. The small vessel and dedicated captain ensure an intimate, respectful, and memorable outing—adventure lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate these details.

While it’s not a guarantee every time due to sea conditions, the combination of wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and swimming opportunities makes this tour a worthwhile choice for those visiting Los Gigantes. The positive reviews underscore its value, professionalism, and thrilling nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with start times varying based on availability.

What is included in the price?
The speedboat trip, skipper, and guaranteed wildlife sightings (depending on sea conditions) are included.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 2 years are not allowed on this tour.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there is a stop in a bay for swimming or jumping into the waters, so bring swimwear and towels.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
Pregnant women are welcome onboard but do so at their own risk.

What should I bring?
Bring swimming gear, towels, and warm clothing if needed, especially in colder months.

Is there a possibility of not seeing whales or dolphins?
Yes, sightings depend on sea conditions, and while the tour offers guaranteed sightings, it cannot promise every trip will feature animals.

How do I prepare for the boat ride?
Arrive at least 30 minutes early, and consider taking motion sickness precautions if prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What language is the tour hosted in?
The tour is hosted in Spanish, but the wildlife experience remains engaging regardless.

Where can I book this experience?
You can reserve a spot through platforms like GetYourGuide and similar providers.

This speedboat dolphin and whale watching tour from Los Gigantes combines adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty—a memorable outing for anyone eager to see Tenerife’s marine mammals up close.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby