Tenerife water time feels different on a schooner.

This relaxed whale-watching trip from Puerto Colón pairs wildlife watching with Los Gigantes cliffs, plus lunch and a possible swim in Masca Bay.

I love the simple, uncrowded feel: you’re not stuck on a loud speedboat. And I really like the practical mix of whales and dolphins with a scenic stop where you can actually cool off.

One thing to plan for: the sailing can get choppy, and a wooden boat can sway, so if you get motion sickness, take it seriously.

Key points to know before you go

• Wooden Shogun schooner: a more laid-back ride than typical whale boats
• Pilot whales year-round in this area, plus frequent dolphins
• Masca Bay swim stop under the Los Gigantes cliffs when conditions allow
• Lunch on board with water and soft drinks all trip, and wine/beer with lunch for adults
• Multi-language crew (English, Spanish, German, French, Italian)
• Family-friendly format with safety gear onboard and a calm pace

Shogun wooden schooner: the ride vibe matters

This tour is all about slowing the day down. You board Shogun, a traditional wooden schooner, and the experience leans more scenic and relaxed than frantic or scripted. That matters, because whale watching is easier when you’re not bouncing around and trying to multitask.

From Puerto Colón, you head out along Tenerife’s southwest coast, where the waters are often calm enough for good viewing. The boat setup also gives you a real chance to scan the horizon and watch how the dolphins move through the water, not just glance for a few seconds.

The crew keeps things friendly and active, and you’ll hear explanations in multiple languages. In the real world, that means kids and adults usually stay engaged without having to understand everything at once.

Whale and dolphin watching in southwest Tenerife waters

The big target here is pilot whales, and this area is known for regular sightings throughout the year. You should expect dolphins to be part of the picture too, since they often feed and travel close to the boat in the same stretches.

You won’t get a guarantee—wildlife is wildlife—but the whole format is built around maximizing your time searching without making it feel like a hunt. When the animals come up, you’ll usually see them in motion rather than as a quick splash-and-miss moment.

Practical tip: when you spot activity, stay patient. Dolphins especially can circle and reappear, and pilot whales may surface in intervals. If you run up and down the boat each time someone points, you’ll miss the slow approach that often comes right before a good view.

Also worth knowing: even when you don’t see whales, the day can still feel like it delivered. Dolphins, flying fish, and other marine life can pop up, and the boat experience itself is the core of the value.

Los Gigantes cliffs: why this stop feels like the whole point

Los Gigantes is the dramatic part of Tenerife’s west coast. You’ll reach the cliff area and then continue to where the boat anchors in Masca Bay, a sheltered cove designed for both views and a swim stop when the sea cooperates.

The cliffs are the kind of place you understand immediately from the water. From deck level, you get the scale—those tall rock faces rise straight up, and you can feel how protected this bay is compared with open ocean.

The timing is short but satisfying. You’re not rushed through a quick photo and back to sea. You get a window to take in the view, eat, and then decide if you want to swim.

One consideration: swimming is optional and depends on sea conditions. If the water is rough, you may not get the same opportunity, so keep your expectations flexible.

Masca Bay swim stop: how to do it safely and enjoy it

If the conditions allow, Masca Bay becomes the day’s reset button. The boat anchors in this protected cove and you can enjoy a refreshing swim right under the cliffs.

Life jackets and float aids are provided, which is a big deal for families. It also means the crew can focus on everyone’s comfort rather than guessing who can manage what kind of water.

Bring your swimwear and towel, and also think about sun. Even if you’re in and out of the water, the Tenerife sun can catch you fast on a boat ride.

If you’re traveling with kids, the best mindset is choice, not pressure. Swimming is there for you to opt into, and you can also simply stay on deck to watch and cool down without getting in.

Lunch on board: what’s included and how it fits the experience

Lunch is served while the boat is anchored, which is exactly the right way to do it. You’re not eating while the boat is moving hard, so the meal is more comfortable—especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

You get unlimited water and soft drinks during the cruise. Adults also get wine and beer with lunch. It’s not a fancy gourmet meal, but it hits the practical goals: fuel, comfort, and a chance to relax before the ride back.

One real advantage is the pacing. Because lunch is timed into the day, you don’t feel like you’re constantly waiting to eat or constantly worried about what’s next. You can enjoy the cliffs, take a breath, and then decide if you want one last swim or just a final scenic sail.

If you want photos and video, those aren’t included. You’ll want to plan to use your own phone or camera if that matters to your trip.

Price and value: is $64 a good deal for this mix?

At $64 per person for about a five-hour experience, the value comes from the combination. You’re not paying just for wildlife spotting—you’re also getting lunch, drinks, a possible swim stop, and the scenic Los Gigantes approach.

This kind of tour can get expensive fast when you add up separate tickets for boat time, a guided coast excursion, and any food you’d otherwise buy on land. Here, the “add-ons” are built into the same ticket.

The biggest value driver is the format: a relaxed wooden schooner plus time in two visually rewarding zones—open-water searching for whales and the cliff-and-bay section where you can actually stop and enjoy the water.

Getting there smoothly: Puerto Colón pier 14 and optional pickup

Your main boarding point is Puerto Colón, Pier number 14, next to the petrol station. Boarding starts 30 minutes before departure, so you’ll want to arrive early and not sprint at the last minute.

If you choose pickup, you’ll go by coach to the departure area, with multiple drop-off options afterward. In other words, your total day can stretch depending on where you’re picked up and dropped off. Plan a little buffer so you don’t feel rushed before the cruise.

If you’re driving, paid parking is available nearby, but spaces can be limited in high season. A short walk from the pier is normal, so don’t pack your day like you’re heading to a faraway trailhead.

Who this tour suits best (and who should think twice)

This works especially well if you want a calm, family-friendly nature outing. The boat is licensed and equipped with safety gear, and the crew handles the flow of the day without turning it into a stressful production.

It’s a great choice for:

• Families who want a fun boat day with a possible swim
• Couples who want scenery plus wildlife without the adrenaline
• Anyone who prefers a more relaxed boat feel over fast, bumpy rides

It’s not ideal if you know you react badly to motion. Some departures can start rocky, and a wooden schooner can sway. If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication and keep it consistent with your own medical advice.

Pet policy is also a plus if you travel with a small animal: small pets up to 12 kg are welcome, but they must stay with you and cannot enter the water.

Tips so your day goes better on the water

I’d plan around three things: comfort, sun, and timing.

• Wear swimwear under your clothes so the swim stop feels easy if it happens.
• Bring towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the ocean breeze.
• If you’re sensitive to waves, bring your medication early and don’t wait until you feel sick.

Seating matters too. When you board, choose a spot where you can see forward and around the sides. That makes it easier when dolphins appear and disappear quickly.

And keep your expectations flexible. You’re very likely to see pilot whales and plenty of dolphins, but not every trip is the same. When you treat the day as a scenic wildlife outing rather than a promise of perfect sightings, you’ll enjoy it more.

Should you book this Adeje whale watching with Los Gigantes?

I think you should book if you want a practical, comfortable boat day that mixes wildlife, famous cliffs, and an optional swim. The $64 price feels fair for what you’re getting: boat time with licensed wildlife watching, lunch with drinks, and a meaningful stop at Los Gigantes’ Masca Bay area.

Skip it or prepare extra carefully if you’re highly seasick-prone. The experience is relaxed, but the ocean can still move, and the wooden schooner can sway.

If you’re planning Tenerife around nature and views, this one is a strong fit. It’s not just about checking off whales—it’s about enjoying the coast from the water, eating without rushing, and having a real chance to cool off when the bay opens up.

FAQ

Will I definitely see whales or dolphins?

Sightings are very likely because pilot whales live here year-round, and dolphins are also common. That said, wildlife can’t be guaranteed, so plan for the possibility of seeing more dolphins even if whales are missed.

What if the sea is rough—can I still swim at Los Gigantes?

Swimming is optional and depends on sea conditions. If conditions don’t allow it, you’ll still get the Los Gigantes scenery and lunch on board.

What’s included in lunch and drinks?

Lunch is included on board. You’ll have unlimited water and soft drinks during the cruise, and for adults, wine and beer are included during lunch. Additional alcoholic drinks can be purchased outside lunch.

Is the boat safe for families and kids?

Yes. The boat is fully licensed and Blue-Flag certified, with the required safety equipment onboard. Safety is also part of how the swim stop is handled, since it changes based on sea conditions.

Where do we meet, and how early should we arrive?

Meet at Puerto Colón, Pier number 14, next to the petrol station. Boarding starts 30 minutes before departure, and you should arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid missing the tour.

Can we bring a pet?

Small pets up to 12 kg are welcome, but they must stay with you at all times and cannot enter the water.

What should I pack for the cruise?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and sunglasses. A light jacket is also a good idea since it can feel cool on open water.