La Gomera: Whale Watching Cruise with Tapas & Swim Stop

Summary

Vintage boat whale cruise la gomera with swimming tapas drinks

You’ll watch whales glide near your vintage boat off La Gomera’s coast, listen to local stories from your guide, swim in clear Atlantic waters by volcanic cliffs, and share simple tapas with fellow travelers. This is more than just a day trip — it’s a few hours that linger long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of waves against the hull — not loud, but steady, almost like a heartbeat. We’d barely left Valle Gran Rey when Carmen, our guide (she grew up here), pointed out a dark shape surfacing in the distance. “That’s a pilot whale,” she said, and honestly, I sort of froze. I’d seen photos before but never expected to be this close. The air smelled salty and sharp, mixed with something warm from the engine below deck.

I ended up sitting next to an older couple from Tenerife who shared their sunscreen with me (I forgot mine — classic). The sun was strong but not harsh; there was this breeze that kept my skin cool even as we drifted past La Gomera’s cliffs. At one point, dolphins started weaving around us — Carmen grinned and said they’re regulars on this route. She told us about the volcanic rocks and how locals read the sea for signs of whales. It felt like everyone on board had their own little ritual: some taking photos, others just staring quietly at the horizon.

We anchored in a cove where the water turned that impossible blue-green you only see in postcards. I hesitated before jumping in (cold!), but it was worth it — floating there, looking back at the island’s wild coast, I felt oddly small and happy. Lunch was simple: local cheese, olives, bread, and cold drinks passed around by the crew. Someone spilled their wine and everyone laughed; it wasn’t fancy but somehow perfect. On the way back, lying on deck with salt drying on my arms and listening to Carmen talk about her childhood here… I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and swimming excursion

• Board vintage boat in La Gomera
• Watch whales and dolphins
• Anchor in cove for swimming
• Enjoy tapas and drinks on board
• Listen to natural environment explanation
• Return to port feeling relaxed

Top questions

How long does the whale watching tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from departure to return.

Is swimming included during the boat excursion?

Yes, there is a stop for swimming in clear Atlantic waters near La Gomera's coast.

Are food and drinks provided on board?

Yes, tapas and drinks are served during the cruise.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, all ages are welcome; infants can ride in a pram or sit on an adult's lap.

Where does the tour depart from?

The boat departs from Valle Gran Rey on La Gomera.

Are there toilets available on board?

Yes, there are separate toilets for men and women on the boat.

Will we see dolphins as well as whales?

Dolphins are often seen along with whales during this excursion.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to the port?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Valle Gran Rey port.

What’s included

Your day includes a three-hour vintage boat cruise from Valle Gran Rey with whale watching led by local guides who know these waters well. You’ll have time to swim in a sheltered cove off La Gomera’s volcanic coast and enjoy tapas snacks plus bottled water or drinks served by the friendly crew before heading back to port feeling sun-warmed and relaxed.