Whales off Los Gigantes beat any screen. On this 46 ft sailboat cruise, you get a close-up look at cetaceans while learning what makes the area special, then slide into the water for a short snorkel under the cliffs. I like the feeling of a small group (up to 9), where the crew can actually help everyone spot marine life without turning the day into a cattle call.

Two things I especially love: the respectful, sustainability-first approach that keeps distance and reduces disturbance, and the bonus of sailing time that lets you take in the cliffs and views toward Teide from the sea. One possible drawback: if you’re prone to motion sickness, plan ahead. A few people found the ride a bit more bumpy than expected, even though the outing stays friendly and well-managed.

Why a small-group sailboat makes whale watching actually work

From Los Gigantes, this cruise runs on a boat big enough to feel solid, but small enough to feel personal. You’re on a 14m / 46 ft sailboat, and the trip is designed for private or small groups with a maximum of 9 passengers. That matters because whale and dolphin sightings are partly luck and partly procedure. A smaller crew and fewer people usually means calmer positioning, easier communication, and quicker “look here now” moments when an animal shows up.

The vibe also tends to be low-stress. The day isn’t just about chasing wildlife; it’s about understanding it. You’ll get information about the history of the island and the marine species you might encounter, and you can ask questions right from the crew.

Also, the tour isn’t shy about its responsibility credentials. The operator is part of the Sustainability Charter for Whale Watching (through Turismo de Tenerife) and actively supports the South Tenerife Cetaceans Association. They’re also proud of carrying the Blue Boat Flag, which signals government authorization for responsible whale watching.

Key points you’ll care about on day-of

• Up to 9 passengers on a 46 ft / 14m sailboat, so spotting is easier and the atmosphere stays calm
• Wildlife viewing for about 1.5 hours, focused time when the crew searches for whales and dolphins
• Snorkeling under the cliffs is short but scenic, with masks included
• Homemade tapas onboard after the swim, with options for vegetarians mentioned by guests
• Responsible operation supported by Tenerife’s sustainability framework and cetacean association involvement

Picarus Sailing Club: your start point and what to expect on board

The departure is from Picarus Sailing Club in Los Gigantes. You’ll also hear the boat name Aemon or Ayla depending on the day, so it’s worth checking what you’re assigned before you arrive.

Plan on a straightforward start: you show up, meet the crew, get your bearings, and settle in for the first viewing stretch. Safety gear is included, including life vests, and you’ll have snorkel masks provided. That’s one less thing to cram into your day bag.

Bring the stuff that makes the rest of the outing easier:

• Sunglasses and a sun hat
• Swimwear (you’ll be getting in the water)
• Biodegradable sunscreen with high protection (50+)
• A towel (not included)
• If you need one, consider bringing your own snorkel tube, since the snorkel “tuba” isn’t listed as included

If you’re sensitive to motion, have your usual seasickness plan ready. One couple mentioned it surprised them, and that’s a real consideration in any coastal sail.

Wildlife viewing off Los Gigantes: how they spot and stay respectful

The cruise gives you about 1.5 hours of wildlife viewing as you work the waters off Los Gigantes. This is the heart of the day. The crew looks for resident and migratory marine fauna, and the goal is to watch without turning the encounter into a disruption.

A detail I love here is the operational discipline around engines and proximity. Guests specifically noted the captain would cut engines when whales were spotted, even from a distance, which is exactly the kind of behavior that supports animal comfort. When you’re on a small sailboat, that kind of adjustment feels more natural and coordinated than it does on larger operations.

What might you see? The sightings reported include pilot whales and dolphins, with occasional extras like a turtle. But I’d treat sightings as “possible” rather than “guaranteed.” Even on the best day, wildlife doesn’t take schedules. Still, the crew’s job is to search, position, and give you real time to look.

Practical tip: how to get the most out of the viewing time

When the crew starts scanning, do what they’re asking immediately. It’s not the moment to text or reorganize gear. Sun glare off the water can be intense, and a quick posture change can help you spot blows and surfacing patterns.

The sail: seeing the cliffs and Teide from the water

After the initial viewing session, you’ll shift into about 1 hour of sailing. This is where the day becomes more than wildlife-spotting. You’re out on the sea with time to take in Los Gigantes’ dramatic cliffs and open views toward Teide in the distance.

On a sailboat, the motion can feel gentler than fast engine rides, especially when conditions cooperate. The crew also shares information about what you’re seeing—both marine life and island context—so you’re not just staring at water. You’re building a mental map of why this stretch of coast attracts marine animals and how the island geography shapes it.

Snorkeling under the cliffs: the short slot that still feels special

Next comes snorkeling time (about 15 minutes) near the cliffs. This is not a long snorkeling excursion, but it’s built for a specific effect: getting you into the water while you’re already anchored or positioned for the scenery.

What’s included here:

• Snorkel masks
• Safety gear (life vests)

What’s not included:

• The snorkel tube (tuba)

So if you’re picky about your comfort in the water, bring your own tube. And if you don’t swim much, don’t let the word snorkel fool you into thinking it’ll be a half-hour underwater adventure. Treat it as a brief chance to look and feel the coast from a different angle.

Also, remember this is a real ocean environment. Even if the water looks calm, plan on cold-to-cool depending on the day and your comfort level. If you’re coming from the UK or colder climates, it can still be a shock the first time you slip in.

After the snorkel: what happens right away

You won’t be left hanging in damp wetsuit vibes. Right after snorkeling, the plan includes a meal onboard shortly after, so you can warm up and refuel while you’re still in the tour rhythm.

Tapas and drinks onboard: where the value shows

The onboard meal is a homemade tapas menu, served after the swim. The timing is listed as a quick slot, so think of it as a “get back on your feet” meal rather than a full restaurant-style lunch.

This is one of the best value pieces of the trip because it turns the cruise into a full half-day experience. You’re not paying for food separately, and multiple guests highlighted the tapas as a nice surprise. Vegetarians have been specifically mentioned as catered for, which is great news if you need more than a token plate.

One more practical note: because you’ll be in and out of the water, having food and drinks available soon after helps a lot. You’re less likely to scramble for snacks afterward and you keep the energy for the return sailing back.

Price and value: is $88 fair for Tenerife whale watching?

At $88 per person, this cruise sits in a category that can feel expensive at first glance. But in practice, the value comes from what’s packed into that price.

Here’s where the money goes:

• A 46 ft sailboat experience with a small group size (not a giant crowd)
• Life vests and snorkel masks included
• A guided outing with multiple languages (Spanish, English, French)
• A viewing-and-sailing program that lasts 3 to 4 hours
• Homemade tapas onboard after snorkeling

When you compare this to whale watching that’s cheaper but doesn’t include food or requires you to handle snorkel gear separately, the math shifts. And the small-group setup can matter a lot for spotting and calm operations.

If whales show well, it can feel like a bargain. If you’re unlucky with sightings, you’ll still have a legit sail, a cliff-side swim, and a meal onboard—so you’re not paying only for the animal lottery.

Who should book this cruise, and who should think twice

This fits best if you want:

• Real whale watching without a chaotic crowd
• A sailing day with cliffs and Teide views, not just a fast out-and-back boat ride
• The mix of watching + brief snorkeling + tapas
• A crew that talks to you and answers questions during the trip

It might be less ideal if:

• You’re very prone to seasickness and haven’t planned for it
• You want a long snorkeling session or a day-long outing (this is short and focused)
• You need a guaranteed whale sighting. Wildlife doesn’t promise.

Should you book the Los Gigantes whale watching sail?

Yes, if your top priorities are small-group whale watching, responsible behavior, and a day that feels like a real sailing cruise with a swim and tapas. The responsible credentials, the emphasis on spacing, and the solid “three-part” structure (view, sail, snorkel, eat) make it a strong use of half a day in Tenerife.

Book it sooner rather than later if you can, because small groups fill up quickly on popular departure days. And if you’re seasickness-prone, pack your remedy the night before and keep your expectations realistic: sometimes the sea is generous, sometimes it’s just beautiful.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours.

How many people are on the boat?

It runs as a private or small-group excursion, with a maximum of 9 passengers.

What’s included for snorkeling?

You get safety gear on board (life vests) and snorkel masks. A towel is not included.

Where do I meet the tour, and what boat name should I look for?

You meet at Picarus Sailing Club, and the boat may be named Aemon or Ayla.

What food is served onboard?

A homemade tapas menu is served onboard after the snorkeling time.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.