Los Gigantes: Dolphin & Whale Sailing Tour with Snorkeling

Summary

Sail Los Gigantes cliffs spot dolphins whales snorkel coves relax

You’ll sail beneath Los Gigantes’ dramatic cliffs in a small group, watching dolphins and whales glide past with an expert local skipper sharing stories along the way. There’s time to snorkel in quiet coves—gear included—and snacks to keep you going. Expect laughter, sea spray, and those little moments that stick with you long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the cliffs of Los Gigantes just sort of rise up out of nowhere — like someone dropped a wall at the edge of Tenerife. We’d barely left the harbor when our skipper, Miguel, pointed to a slick patch in the water. “Look there,” he said, and sure enough, a pod of dolphins surfaced so close I could hear them exhale. The boat was quiet except for that sound and a couple of us whispering. Salt spray on my lips, sun on my knees. I didn’t expect to feel so small in such a good way.

There were only eight of us on board (plus Miguel), which meant nobody fought for space or views. At one point I tried to say “calderón tropical” — pilot whale — and Miguel laughed, correcting my accent with patience only locals have. He told stories about marine conservation here in Teno Rural Park and why they keep groups small. It felt like he actually cared about these waters, not just doing his job. We drifted near another cove where the water turned this weird electric blue under the cliffs — honestly, it looked fake.

Snacks came out (simple stuff: fruit, cheese, cold drinks) while we anchored for snorkeling. The mask felt awkward at first but then I got used to it; schools of silver fish darted around my hands if I stayed still enough. Some people just floated and watched clouds move overhead. It’s funny how quickly you forget time out there — I think we all did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and spot marine wildlife

• Board small group sailboat
• Sail along Los Gigantes coast
• Spot dolphins and tropical calderones
• Snorkel in quiet coves
• Enjoy snacks and drinks onboard
• Listen to skipper's marine info

Top questions

How many people are on the dolphin & whale sailing tour?

The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 people plus crew for an intimate experience.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Los Gigantes tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided as part of your booking.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the sailing trip?

Yes, snacks and drinks are served onboard during the excursion.

How long does the dolphin & whale sailing tour last?

The sailing tour lasts approximately 3 hours from departure to return.

Is this dolphin & whale tour suitable for families or children?

Yes, it’s suitable for families; infants and small children can join with a pram or stroller.

Does the tour include hotel pickup from Tenerife hotels?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

What wildlife can be seen during this Los Gigantes sailing trip?

You may see dolphins, pilot whales (calderones), and other marine species native to Teno Rural Park.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing along Los Gigantes’ coast with a small group and local skipper, snacks and drinks served onboard while spotting dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, plus all snorkeling equipment provided for swimming stops in quiet coves before returning after about three hours at sea.