Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat

Whales, cliffs, and a swim in two hours. This Los Gigantes cruise packs a lot into a short outing, using a small rigid inflatable boat that carries up to about 12 passengers. I like the close-to-the-water wildlife viewing and the run beside the enormous Masca and Los Gigantes cliffs. The main caution is simple: sightings depend on the sea, and much of the two-hour trip is spent moving between the port, wildlife area, and swimming bay.

At $33 per person, it offers strong value if you want a compact taste of Tenerife’s southwest coast rather than a full-day boat trip. Guides such as Luca, Alejandro, and Alessandro have earned praise for spotting pilot whales, explaining the coast, and keeping the mood light. Still, the small boat can feel lively in rough water, and you should not treat the wildlife sighting as an absolute promise.

Six things worth knowing before you book

• Small RIB, maximum 12 passengers: You get a more personal view than on a large sightseeing vessel, with less crowding around the sides.
• Pilot whales are the most reliable find: Dolphins, turtles, flying fish, and other sea life are possible, but conditions and luck decide the show.
• The Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary is the main target: This stretch off Tenerife is known for regular whale and dolphin activity.
• Los Gigantes cliffs are part of the experience: The boat passes near towering cliffs reaching roughly 600 meters, with views toward Masca Valley.
• A swim stop is usually included: Masca Bay, Barranco Seco, or Juan López may be used, depending on conditions and timing.
• Arrive early: Reach the port at least 30 minutes before departure, and preferably an hour early if you need to park or catch public transport.

Leaving Los Gigantes port in a 12-seat speedboat

You make your own way to Los Gigantes port. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so this is not a door-to-door excursion. That matters more than it may seem because traffic around the harbor can be heavy, and parking can be hard to find both inside and outside the port.

The operator asks you to arrive 30 minutes before departure. I would treat that as the minimum, not the target. An hour gives you time to deal with parking, find the meeting point, and avoid starting the outing in a panic. Late arrivals are not promised a refund or a new departure.

The boat is a rigid inflatable speedboat, often called a RIB. It is not a yacht with a cabin, padded lounge, or indoor shelter. Its appeal is the opposite: you sit close to the sea, feel the movement of the boat, and have a clear view in nearly every direction.

The usual capacity is about 12 passengers, though some departures may have fewer people. That small size is one of the strongest reasons to choose this outing. You are less likely to spend the trip peering over a crowd, and the skipper can usually position the boat with the group in mind.

The tradeoff is comfort. The ride can be bouncy, especially when the sea is unsettled. One passenger described the boat as more of a leisurely cruise than a true high-speed run, so do not book it purely for a thrill ride. It is a fast and practical way to reach the wildlife area, with bursts of speed rather than nonstop racing.

Searching the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary

The main purpose of the trip is the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, an important marine area off Tenerife’s southwest coast. The outing heads away from Los Gigantes toward open water, where pilot whales and dolphins are commonly sought.

Pilot whales are the species most often seen on this route. Technically, pilot whales are part of the dolphin family, which can cause some confusion if you arrive expecting only the large whales shown in nature documentaries. The sighting can still be excellent. Groups of six, 20, or even 22 pilot whales have been seen, and some boats have reached within a few meters while keeping a respectful distance.

Dolphins are also possible. Common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and Atlantic dolphins have all been spotted, sometimes in large groups that swim around the boat. Several outings have found dolphins soon after leaving the harbor, while others have seen only pilot whales or no cetaceans at all.

That range is important. The activity description uses strong language about sightings, but the practical information makes clear that whales and dolphins cannot be guaranteed. Sea conditions control visibility and the skipper’s ability to search. Wind can stop a dolphin sighting, and one outing had to make do with whales and coastal views instead.

The best captains do not simply chase every fin. Luca was praised for switching off the engine when the boat reached the animals, and other guides were noted for keeping a respectful distance. That approach improves the experience in two ways. You get a quieter view, and the animals are not pushed by constant engine noise or pursuit.

You may see more than whales and dolphins. Turtles, jellyfish, flying fish, and even a shark or marlin have appeared on different trips. These sightings are extras, not promises, but they make the time at sea more interesting when the main animals are difficult to find.

Expect the actual wildlife viewing to occupy only part of the two-hour outing. One passenger estimated about 30 minutes with the animals, while the rest went toward reaching the area, moving along the coast, and getting to the swimming stop. That is not necessarily poor value. It is simply how a short marine excursion works. You are buying the whole coastal experience, not two uninterrupted hours of whale watching.

What the guides add to the trip

The skipper makes a large difference here. Luca receives repeated praise for humor, quick wildlife spotting, and his care around children. Alejandro has been described as cheerful and good at explaining pilot whales and the sea life around Tenerife. Alessandro has also been praised for sharing facts about the cliffs and the animals.

The language listed for the host is Spanish. Even so, several English-speaking passengers found the explanations clear enough, and some guides made an effort to communicate with everyone aboard. You should not expect a full multilingual natural-history lecture, but you can expect useful commentary when the guide is in his element.

The guides also seem to adjust the pace when something catches the group’s attention. One guide slowed the boat to point out marine life, while another answered questions and gave extra information about the coast. That personal attention is easier on a 12-seat boat than on a vessel carrying dozens of people.

A few touches make the trip feel less mechanical. Fresh fruit, including oranges from a captain’s own orchard, has been offered on some departures. A child was given a spare vest when the weather turned cool. These details are not listed as standard inclusions, so do not book expecting fruit or extra clothing, but they show the kind of hands-on care that can make a short trip memorable.

There is also an environmental point worth noting. Reports of the engine being shut off near the whales suggest a more respectful approach than racing around the animals. That does not turn the trip into a formal conservation tour, but it is a good sign for anyone who wants wildlife viewing handled with restraint.

Passing beneath the Los Gigantes cliffs

After the wildlife search, the boat heads along the coast toward the cliffs of Los Gigantes and Masca. These dark volcanic walls rise dramatically from the sea, reaching around 600 meters in places. From the water, their scale is far more impressive than from a road or lookout.

The boat gets close enough to give you a strong sense of the rock faces. You may see openings, ledges, and views toward Masca Valley, with the cliffs filling much of your sightline. This section is not just a ride back to the harbor. For some people, it becomes the visual highlight of the trip.

Timing can affect how much coastline you see. If the departure is delayed, the activity may still finish at the scheduled time, leaving less time for the cliff section and swimming stop. One passenger felt that a late start shortened the coastal visit. That is another reason to arrive early and confirm the departure point before the boat leaves.

The boat’s size helps here. A smaller craft can make the coastal passage feel more direct and personal, without the bulk of a large excursion vessel. It also gives you a better chance of taking photos without a forest of heads in front of you.

Bring a phone or camera, but protect it. Spray can reach the boat, and a secure case is sensible. Glass objects are not allowed, so leave glass bottles and similar items behind.

Swimming at Masca Bay and nearby coves

The final major part of the outing is a stop in a clear-water bay. Masca Bay is the place most often mentioned, but Barranco Seco or Juan López may be used instead. The setting is usually framed by steep volcanic walls and calm, transparent water.

You can swim if you want, or remain aboard and enjoy the view. A stop of around 20 minutes has been described, though the exact amount of time depends on the sea, wildlife sightings, and the schedule. Bring a towel and wear swimwear under your clothes if you think you will enter the water.

The Atlantic can feel cool, especially in winter. One family skipped the swim in December, while another passenger in February suggested bringing a jumper or jacket because the boat became chilly when clouds moved in. You do not need to swim to get value from the excursion, but you should prepare for changing temperatures.

Snorkeling equipment is not clearly listed as included. One passenger advised bringing a personal mask, so pack your own if looking below the surface matters to you. Do not assume the boat will provide a complete set of equipment.

This stop adds welcome variety. After concentrating on fins and spray, you get a quiet break in a sheltered cove. Still, if swimming is your main goal, this is not a dedicated beach excursion. Wildlife searching takes priority, and the time in the bay may be shorter than you hope.

Is $33 a fair price?

At $33, this is one of the better-value ways to combine wildlife viewing and the Los Gigantes coast. You get a skipper, the speedboat trip, a wildlife search, a cliff passage, and a swimming opportunity in about two hours.

The small group is the real value. Large boat tours may give you more room to move or a smoother ride, but they can put many more people between you and the animals. On this RIB, you are closer to the water and usually have a clearer view.

There are limits. The price does not include transportation to the harbor, and a sighting of both whales and dolphins is not assured. If you pay mainly to see dolphins, you could leave disappointed even after a successful whale sighting.

The overall rating of 4.7 from more than 1,000 ratings reflects strong satisfaction, but the individual experiences are not identical. Some people saw dolphins, pilot whales, turtles, and flying fish. Others saw only whales, or had no cetacean sighting because of the weather. The price is easiest to justify if you value the cliffs and sea journey even when nature does not cooperate.

Who should choose this boat trip?

I would point you toward this outing if you want:

• A short activity that fits neatly into a day in southwest Tenerife
• A small group rather than a large sightseeing vessel
• A close view of pilot whales and possible dolphins
• Dramatic coastal scenery from sea level
• A chance to swim in a clear-water cove
• A lively boat ride with a guide who adds humor and local information

Families can enjoy it, and children over two are allowed. A seven-year-old had a particularly good time on one outing, but the sea state matters. If your child gets motion sick or dislikes bouncing boats, a larger vessel may be easier.

Pregnant women may board at their own risk. The operator does not list the boat as unsuitable for pregnancy, but the ride can be rough, so personal comfort and medical advice should guide the decision.

This is less suitable if you need a guaranteed dolphin encounter, dislike open-water motion, or want a long, detailed lecture about marine biology. It is also not the right pick if you expect hotel transport or a full-day coastal cruise.

Practical tips for a smoother departure

Arrive at the port an hour early if you are driving or using public transport. Parking may take time, and the harbor can be confusing when several boats are leaving.

Wear swimwear beneath quick-drying clothes and bring a towel. Pack a light jacket, even on a sunny day, because wind, spray, and cloud can make the return ride cool.

Keep cameras and phones secure. Leave glass items at your accommodation, as they are not allowed on board.

If you are sensitive to motion, sit where the skipper directs and consider preparing for a bumpy ride. The trip is short, but the boat is exposed to the sea.

Finally, leave room for nature to set the schedule. The crew may find whales quickly, or spend longer searching. A good sighting can also reduce the time available for the cliffs and swimming stop.

Should you book the Los Gigantes speedboat cruise?

Book it if you want a good-value, small-group sea trip that combines pilot whales, possible dolphins, dramatic cliffs, and a quick swim. The strongest features are the 12-seat RIB, the guides’ care around wildlife, and the chance to see Los Gigantes from the water rather than from a roadside viewpoint.

Skip it if a dolphin sighting is essential, if you need a smooth and sheltered boat, or if you want a long swimming session. The honest way to judge this outing is as a two-hour coastal adventure with wildlife potential, not as a guaranteed animal encounter.

For $33, that is a fair bargain, especially when the crew finds a large pod and then takes you beneath the cliffs. Just arrive early, bring a jacket and towel, and let the sea decide what appears.

FAQ

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Los Gigantes port in Tenerife. You must make your own way there because hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts two hours. Starting times vary, so you need to check availability when booking.

Are whales and dolphins guaranteed?

No. The crew searches for wildlife, but sightings depend on sea conditions. You may see pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, flying fish, or other marine life, but no specific animal can be promised.

What animals are most commonly seen?

Pilot whales are frequently seen on this route. Dolphins are also possible, including common, bottlenose, and Atlantic dolphins. Turtles and flying fish have also been spotted.

How many people fit on the boat?

The rigid inflatable speedboat carries a maximum of about 12 passengers, not including the skipper.

Is swimming included?

The itinerary includes a stop in a bay such as Masca Bay, Barranco Seco, or Juan López, where you can swim if conditions and timing allow. Bring your own towel and swimwear.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel, swimwear, a light jacket or jumper, and a secure camera or phone case. Glass objects are not allowed. If you want to snorkel, bring your own mask because snorkeling equipment is not listed as included.

How early should I arrive?

You should be at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure. If you are driving or taking public transport, arriving an hour early is wiser because traffic and parking around Los Gigantes port can be difficult.