Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin RIB Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Summary

Whale watching on Tenerife’s big RIB plus swimming and lunch

You’ll board Tenerife’s largest RIB in a small group, cruise into Atlantic waters to watch whales and dolphins up close, then swim or snorkel straight from the boat. Enjoy drinks throughout and a relaxed lunch of local dishes while soaking in ocean views. It’s an easygoing day where details fade and those little moments—like laughter over lunch or spotting dolphins—stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so small out there — not in a bad way, just sort of humbled. The port at Los Cristianos was already buzzing when we met at gate 13, but stepping onto this massive RIB (they said it’s the world’s largest) felt oddly personal. There were only about a dozen of us, and our guide Carlos had this easy way of making everyone laugh without trying too hard. He handed me a cold drink right away — I think it was cava? — and joked about my sun hat blowing off before we even left the dock.

The Atlantic air smelled salty and sharp as we picked up speed. It wasn’t long before Carlos slowed down and pointed out a pod of pilot whales just drifting along. I could hear them spouting — softer than I thought it’d be — and for a second everyone just went quiet except for the water slapping against the hull. Dolphins showed up too, kind of showing off near the bow. I tried to get a photo but mostly ended up with blurry splashes. Not that it mattered much; being that close felt better than any picture.

Lunch was simple but good: chicken, rice with veggies, Canarian potatoes (Carlos called them “papas arrugadas” — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Spanish). We ate sitting wherever we wanted, legs dangling over the side or tucked under us on the big padded benches. After that some people jumped in for a swim — snorkel gear was there if you wanted it, though honestly I mostly floated around staring at the sky. The water was colder than I expected but so clear you could see your toes waving underneath.

I still think about that silence after seeing the whales — like you’re part of their world for a minute, not just visiting. On the way back someone started singing quietly (I never figured out who), and Carlos poured another round for anyone who wanted it. If you’re looking for something loud or fancy this isn’t really that; it’s more like sharing a lazy afternoon with strangers who don’t feel like strangers by the end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and luxury boat trip

• Meet at gate 13 in the port
• Sail out on the Atlantic Ocean
• See whales and dolphins
• Swim in the ocean
• Enjoy drinks with friendly staff
• Have lunch on board

Top questions

How long does the whale & dolphin tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from departure to return at Los Cristianos port.

Is lunch included on this Tenerife whale watching trip?

Yes, lunch is included—typically chicken, rice with vegetables, and Canarian potatoes are served on board.

Are drinks provided during the RIB cruise?

Yes, drinks such as cava, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water are included throughout the trip.

Can children join this whale & dolphin boat tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants sit on an adult’s lap.

Is snorkeling equipment available during the cruise?

Yes, snorkeling gear is available for both adults and children if you want to swim during the stop.

Where does this Tenerife whale watching tour depart from?

The tour departs from gate 13 at Los Cristianos port in Tenerife.

What is the maximum group size on this RIB cruise?

The boat takes up to 15 people per trip for a small-group experience.

Are restrooms available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom and shower available on board for guests’ comfort.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at Los Cristianos port with friendly staff greeting you onboard Tenerife’s largest RIB. All drinks are covered—cava, beer, soft drinks—and there’s bottled water anytime you want it. Lunch is served on deck featuring chicken, rice with vegetables, and Canarian potatoes. You’ll also have access to snorkeling equipment for adults and kids if you fancy swimming off the boat before heading back ashore feeling sun-warmed and salt-splashed.