Tenerife: Whale & Dolphin Watching Eco Catamaran with Los Gigantes

Summary

Whale sounds, Los Gigantes cliffs & a quiet swim in Masca Bay

You’ll set out from Tenerife on a solar-powered catamaran to watch and listen to whales and dolphins near Los Gigantes cliffs. Swim in Masca Bay’s clear waters, enjoy lunch with drinks on deck, and share laughs with fellow travelers and your local guide. There’s real warmth here — not just from the sun.

What’s the experience like?

We almost missed the boat — literally. My friend forgot her hat and we had to run back, so when we finally stepped onto the catamaran in Tenerife’s harbor I was already out of breath (and a bit grumpy). But the crew just smiled and handed us cold water. The deck felt warm under my feet, and there was this faint smell of sunscreen mixed with sea air. Our guide, Marta, pointed out the solar panels on the roof — she seemed genuinely proud of how quiet the boat was. “No diesel smell,” she said, grinning. She wasn’t kidding; it was just wind and soft humming as we left the dock.

I didn’t expect to actually hear whales underwater — but at some point Marta hushed everyone and played their sounds through speakers. It was weirdly moving, like listening to a secret conversation below us. We spotted dolphins too (they’re fast), darting around near Los Gigantes cliffs. The cliffs are massive — honestly I can’t describe the size except to say my photos don’t do them justice. At one point I tried saying “Los Gigantes” properly in Spanish and got laughed at by an older couple from Madrid sitting next to us (all good-natured). The main keyword here is whale watching Tenerife but honestly it felt like more than just ticking that box.

Lunch was simple but hit the spot: rice with chicken and veggies, cold beer if you wanted it. I ate mine sitting on the edge of the deck with my legs dangling over. When we anchored in Masca Bay, some people jumped right in for a swim — I hesitated because the water looked almost too clear (like you could see every pebble below). Eventually I went for it anyway; it was colder than expected but refreshing after sitting in the sun. There’s something about floating there with those cliffs behind you that sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching and Los Gigantes visit

• Watch and listen to whales and dolphins
• Sail along Tenerife's south coast
• Visit Los Gigantes Cliffs
• Swim in Masca bay's clear waters
• Snorkel to see local flora and fauna
• Enjoy catering with food and drinks on board

Top questions

How long does this whale watching tour last?

The tour lasts about 5 hours from departure to return.

Is food included during the trip?

Yes, lunch is provided onboard—rice with chicken or pasta salad, plus fresh fruit and drinks.

Can children join this whale watching Tenerife tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Does this tour include swimming?

Yes, there’s time for swimming or snorkeling at Masca Bay during the trip.

Are alcoholic drinks available?

Beer and white wine are included along with soft drinks and water.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the departure point in Tenerife’s harbor.

What makes this boat eco-friendly?

The catamaran uses solar panels for power, making it quieter and more sustainable than standard boats.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered, lunch onboard (rice with chicken or pasta salad plus fresh fruit), beer, white wine, soft drinks, water—and plenty of time for swimming or snorkeling at Masca Bay before heading back along Tenerife’s coast.