Tenerife: Los Gigantes Whale Watching & Masca Bay Catamaran Lunch

Summary

Whale sounds near Los Gigantes cliffs, swim in Masca Bay, lunch on deck

You’ll set out from Tenerife’s southern coast by catamaran to spot whales near Los Gigantes cliffs, listen to their underwater calls, and swim in clear Masca Bay waters. Enjoy lunch on deck—rice or pasta salad, fruit, beer or wine—with friendly local crew sharing stories along the way. Expect laughter, salt air, maybe a quiet moment you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

We slipped our shoes off at the dock in Tenerife and climbed onto this big catamaran—bigger than I expected, honestly. The crew waved us aboard with that easy Canary Islands warmth. I could smell sunscreen and a bit of engine oil as we set off from the port, the water slapping gently against the hull. Our guide, Marta (she’s from La Laguna), pointed out the first pod of pilot whales before I’d even finished my coffee. Their spouts were like little puffs in the morning light. She handed me a pair of headphones so we could actually hear them clicking underwater—didn’t know you could do that here. It was weirdly moving, that sound.

We drifted along under these huge cliffs—the Los Gigantes cliffs really do look like they’re falling straight into the sea—and then headed toward Masca Bay. The wind picked up a bit; someone’s hat went flying and everyone laughed. When we anchored, some folks jumped right in for a swim (the water was cold at first but then it felt perfect). I just sat on the deck for a while with my feet dangling over the side, watching silvery fish dart around below. Lunch was chicken rice with this garlicky mojo sauce (I probably had too much), plus fruit and white wine—simple but good after swimming.

I chatted with one of the sailors about how they try to keep things sustainable out here—he showed me their “blue boat” certificate, which apparently means they follow rules to protect the whales. That stuck with me more than I thought it would. On the way back along Tenerife’s south coast, you could feel those Alisios winds on your skin and everyone got quiet for a minute just watching the island slide by. I still think about that silence sometimes—you know how rare it is to feel that kind of calm?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and Los Gigantes visit

• Watch whales and dolphins
• Sail to Los Gigantes cliffs
• Visit Masca bay
• Swim and snorkel on demand
• Relax and sunbathe on deck
• Enjoy paella, mojo, and fruit
• Drink beer, water, and soft drinks
• Sail back along Tenerife south coast

Top questions

How long does this whale watching tour last?

The excursion lasts approximately 5 hours from departure to return.

Is food included during the tour?

Yes, lunch is included—chicken rice or pasta salad, fresh fruit, plus white wine, beer, water and soft drinks are served on board.

Can I swim or snorkel during this trip?

Yes, there’s time for swimming and snorkeling at Masca Bay when anchored; snorkeling gear is available on request.

Are drinks included on this catamaran tour?

Yes, beer, white wine, water and soft drinks are included throughout the day.

Is hotel pickup provided?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the port for departure.

Are children allowed on this whale watching tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infants sit on laps.

What makes this a “blue boat” whale watching tour?

The boat is authorized under sustainability guidelines to protect whales and dolphins during excursions.

Is commentary provided in English?

Yes, live commentary is provided onboard and may be offered in multiple languages depending on guests.

What’s included

Your day includes all port fees and taxes covered up front; lunch with chicken rice or pasta salad plus fresh fruit; unlimited white wine, beer, water and soft drinks; live onboard commentary from your skipper and two sailors; swimming stops at Masca Bay; snorkeling gear if you ask for it; all while sailing an authorized blue boat focused on sustainability before returning to port along Tenerife’s south coast.