Los Cristianos: Whale Watching Cruise w/Swim Stop & Drinks

If you’re heading to Tenerife and looking for a memorable adventure on the water, the Whale Watching Cruise with a swim stop and drinks offered by Viking Tenerife Ragnarok SL is worth considering. This 3-hour excursion promises the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, enjoy stunning views of Tenerife’s south coast, and even indulge in a bit of Viking-themed entertainment. While no trip can guarantee sightings of marine mammals every time, the overall experience combines wildlife, scenery, and fun in a way that many travelers find rewarding.

What we particularly love about this cruise is its combination of wildlife watching and ocean fun — with optional swimming, a good selection of drinks, and engaging guides that keep the atmosphere lively. The Viking theme adds a playful twist, making the trip more than just another boat ride. However, one thing to consider is the potential for choppy waters, which could be an issue for those prone to seasickness. This tour suits families, animal lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience on Tenerife’s waters.

Who will enjoy this? If you’re eager to see whales and dolphins without sacrificing comfort or fun, and you appreciate a lively crew and good value, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and a bit of entertainment.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Frequent sightings of whales and dolphins close to the boat, offering excellent photo opportunities.
• Scenic Views: Stunning landscapes of Tenerife’s coastline, including cliffs, beaches, and El Teide in the distance.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: A designated stop for swimming or snorkeling in clear Atlantic waters — maybe even spotting a sea turtle.
• Drinks & Entertainment: Unlimited drinks (beer, wine, and more) are included, plus Viking-themed fun and face painting.
• Comfort & Convenience: Restrooms onboard and a professional crew ensure a smooth ride.
• Flexible & Accessible: Duration of about 3 hours, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and wheelchair accessibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise begins at the Puerto de Los Cristianos, a lively harbor area bustling with boats and local cafes. Boarding is straightforward, with a recommended arrival at least 15 minutes early to avoid last-minute stress. The boat itself, Ragnarok, is designed for comfort and stability, giving you a stable platform to enjoy the voyage.

Once underway, you’ll navigate along the Southern Coast of Tenerife, passing notable spots like Playa de Las Américas and Adeje. The real highlight comes when the captain takes the vessel into waters known for regular cetacean activity. According to reviews, passengers frequently see dolphins and whales, with some reports mentioning pilot whales swimming very close to the boat — a sight that leaves lasting memories.

Many reviews mention how the crew’s respectful approach contributes to the experience. Instead of aggressive chasing, they quietly observe and point out the animals, making sightings more natural and less intrusive. One traveler noted, “We saw the whales and dolphins, and our swim in the sea was a highlight,” which speaks to the quality of the marine encounters.

The boat then drops anchor near spectacular cliffs and beaches, offering a chance to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear Atlantic waters. This is a great opportunity to cool off, relax, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle, as some reviews suggest. The crew provides life jackets, making it accessible for kids and less confident swimmers.

As the cruise continues, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks — including beers and wines — served throughout the trip. For those wishing to eat, food is available for purchase on board, such as burgers and snacks, enabling a casual meal amid the waves. Several travelers appreciated the good value, noting that the drinks and entertainment made the price well worth it. One reviewer summed it up: “The price of 35 euros per person is fantastic, and the drinks were included, which added to the fun.”

The Viking theme is playful and engaging, with optional face painting and costumes that make for memorable photos. The crew’s lively spirit and humor make the trip feel like a fun, themed adventure rather than just a tour.

Finally, the boat returns to Los Cristianos harbor, with most guests feeling they’ve experienced a true aquatic adventure — whether or not they spot whales. As one reviewer shared, “We didn’t always see the animals, but the crew’s effort and entertainment made it worthwhile.”

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and crew, who tell interesting facts about marine life and Tenerife’s coastline. Their friendly attitude and ability to keep everyone engaged—kids and adults alike—are often highlighted.

The scenic views of Tenerife’s cliffs and El Teide volcano add a dramatic backdrop to your marine adventure. The calm, clear waters along the southern coast make for an ideal setting for swimming, with many reviewers expressing delight at the opportunity to cool off in the Atlantic.

The drinks included in the price add a social, relaxed atmosphere. With the crew serving beers, wines, and non-alcoholic options, you can toast to your wildlife sightings and enjoy the sunset views. The option to purchase additional food makes it easy to turn this into a full outing rather than just a quick tour.

Price-wise, this trip offers good value for families and solo travelers alike. The reviews consistently point out that despite the modest cost, the experience feels well-rounded and fun-filled — especially with the optional extra activities like swimming and face painting.

The Trip’s Practical Aspects

Duration & Timing: At around 3 hours, it’s a manageable outing that fits well into most Tenerife itineraries. Check the availability for start times; early morning or late afternoon cruises might offer better wildlife sightings and calmer waters.

Group size: The boat’s capacity allows for an intimate experience, but it can get busy, especially during peak seasons. Many reviews mention that the crew does well to involve everyone, though some found seating slightly limited during busy days.

Accessibility: The boat is wheelchair accessible, with the note that electric wheelchairs are not recommended for safety reasons. Restrooms are available onboard, which helps with comfort during the trip.

Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it a low-risk option for travelers with flexible plans.

Considerations: Seasickness can be an issue for some, with reviewers advising taking medication beforehand if you’re prone. The waters can be choppy, and staying in the middle of the boat is suggested for more stability.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

This tour consistently earns high praise. Many travelers mention how attentive and friendly the crew is, with comments such as “The crew knew exactly what to do and checked on my son when he was seasick,” highlighting their professionalism and care.

The spectacular sightings of whales and dolphins are frequently noted, with some describing the experience as “amazing” and “a highlight of the trip.” Even if whales or dolphins aren’t always seen, the entertainment, scenery, and swimming are enough to make the trip worthwhile.

People also love the family-friendly atmosphere, with many reviews mentioning children having a great time, especially with Viking face painting and the chance to jump into the sea.

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Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This whale watching cruise delivers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and fun activities, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of travelers. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic way to observe Tenerife’s marine life without dedicating an entire day, this three-hour trip fits the bill. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a lively atmosphere will find plenty to enjoy here.

The inclusion of drinks, the chance to swim, and the Viking-themed entertainment add a dash of relaxed fun, making it more than just a wildlife tour. It’s especially suitable for those who value a good value for money experience, as many reviews point out the impressive quality considering the price.

However, if seasickness is a concern or if you prefer a very quiet, less social outing, you might want to consider your options carefully. Also, those seeking guaranteed whale sightings should understand that marine mammals are wild animals, and sightings are not always 100%.

To sum it up, the Los Cristianos Whale Watching Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and reasonably priced way to connect with Tenerife’s natural beauty and enjoy a memorable day on the Atlantic. It’s a tour that combines wildlife, scenery, and entertainment, making it a well-rounded adventure for many types of travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children having a fantastic time, especially with Viking face painting and swimming opportunities. The crew is attentive, and the boat is equipped for family comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Since drinks are included and food can be purchased on board, you might also want to bring some extra cash for snacks or additional drinks.

How likely am I to see whales or dolphins?
Sightings are common, but as with all wildlife tours, they can’t be guaranteed. Many travelers report seeing whales and dolphins, with some describing the experience as “unforgettable.”

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible. However, electric wheelchairs are not recommended for safety reasons, so a manual wheelchair is preferable.

What if I get seasick?
The waters can be choppy, and seasickness is possible. It’s wise to take medication if you’re prone to feeling unwell at sea. Seating in the middle of the boat may help reduce discomfort.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. The reservation also allows you to book now and pay later, providing flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes the boat cruise, swimming stop, unlimited drinks (beer, wine, non-alcoholic options), onboard restrooms, and a professional crew. Food and photos are not included but are available for purchase.

In sum, this cruise offers a lively, scenic, and family-friendly way to enjoy Tenerife’s marine environment, with plenty of opportunities for fun, relaxation, and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable ocean adventure, it’s a trip that many find worth their while.

You can check availability for your dates here: