Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat

If you’re heading to Tenerife and love the idea of seeing whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, you’ll find this speedboat tour from Los Gigantes hard to beat. It promises a quick, exhilarating ride along the coast, stunning views of the towering cliffs, and hopefully, some unforgettable wildlife encounters.

What really pulls us in are the guaranteed sightings of marine mammals—meaning less time spent hoping and more time enjoying these magnificent creatures. Plus, the chance to swim in crystal-clear bays and the thrill of zipping along in a rigid inflatable boat make this experience stand out.

Of course, it’s worth noting that wildlife sightings aren’t 100% guaranteed—the sea is unpredictable. Still, most travelers seem to leave with plenty of incredible footage and memorable stories. This tour is ideal for those wanting a quick, fun, and authentic encounter with Tenerife’s marine life, especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of speed and adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife guaranteed? Yes, depending on sea conditions.
• Small group sizes make for a more personal and less crowded experience.
• Speedboat rides add an adrenaline rush without breaking the bank.
• Excellent value for money at around $32 per person.
• Swim stops in beautiful bays are a highlight but require packing swimwear.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and care for marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

This speedboat tour from Los Gigantes offers a lively way to spend a couple of hours on the water, with plenty of opportunities to glimpse whales, dolphins, and sometimes even turtles or flying fish**. The boat, a rigid inflatable (or RIB), is smaller and more nimble than traditional tour boats, which means you’ll get closer to the action, and the ride can feel a bit more thrilling.

Starting from Los Gigantes port, you’ll be greeted by a friendly skipper who knows the waters well. The tour then heads out toward the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, known as the “whale-watching capital of Europe.” Here, the chances of sightings are high, and many reviews highlight how most guests see whales and dolphins—sometimes within just a few minutes of leaving the harbor.

The Itinerary

Most of the tour involves speeding across the water—a real adrenaline boost—especially if you love a bit of wind in your hair. You’ll pass by the spectacular cliffs of Masca and Los Gigantes, which soar up to 600 meters high. These cliffs are an absolute must-see, providing a dramatic backdrop to your wildlife adventure.

After some time searching for marine mammals, the boat anchors in a beautiful bay like Masca, Barranco Seco, or Juan López, for a swimming break. These spots are known for their crystal-clear waters—perfect for cooling off or just relaxing in the sun. Several reviews mention how much people enjoyed this part, with one reviewer calling the swim spot “gorgeous” and noting the opportunity to jump into the Atlantic.

Wildlife Sightings

Most travelers report seeing dolphins and pilot whales, with some describing close encounters—within just five meters of the boat. “We came within 5 metres of several whales, including a calf,” said a recent reviewer, emphasizing how intimate the experience can be. Many also saw turtles, flying fish, and even a shark on different trips.

However, it’s vital to keep in mind that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed—this depends on sea conditions, animal movements, and luck. The tour operators do their best to find the creatures but can’t control nature.

The Guide and Atmosphere

Reviewers frequently praise the knowledgeable guides who offer interesting facts about marine life and show genuine respect for the animals they observe. One reviewer commented, “The guide did a great job explaining everything,” which enhances the overall experience.

The small boat (max 12 seats) is often described as cozy but not crowded, which makes for a more personal and less hectic feeling. Plus, the crew often goes out of their way to make sure everyone is comfortable—offering fruit, lending life jackets for children, and being attentive to individual needs.

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The Price and Value

At around $32 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering what you get: a high-speed adventure, wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and a chance to swim in idyllic waters. Comparing it to larger, more expensive boat trips, many reviewers say that this trip gets you closer to the animals and feels more personal.

Practical Tips

• Bring a towel and swimming gear if you want to take advantage of the swim stop.
• Wear sun protection—a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses—as you’ll be exposed to the sun for most of the trip.
• Dress in layers; it can get cooler, especially if it clouds over or if you’re in the water.
• Arrive 30 minutes early at the port to ensure smooth boarding; late arrivals won’t be refunded or rescheduled.
• No glass objects allowed on board for safety reasons.
• Pregnant women are welcome but do so at their own risk.
• Children under 2 are not allowed, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults seeking adventure.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This speedboat tour is perfect for those seeking a short but exhilarating wildlife experience without spending a fortune. The small group size and fast boat provide a feeling of intimacy and excitement that larger boats often can’t match.

If you’re already a fan of marine wildlife or just want a fun day out on the water, this trip delivers. The stunning cliffs, abundant marine life, and opportunity to swim make it a well-rounded experience—especially if you’re traveling with a sense of adventure and patience.

It’s also great for travelers who appreciate authentic, eco-friendly encounters, as guides are praised for respecting the animals and turning off engines near whale pods. Plus, the value for money is hard to beat, with many reviewers feeling they’ve gotten more than they’d expected.

However, if you’re very keen on guaranteed wildlife sightings or prefer larger, more relaxed boats, you might want to consider other options. Still, most guests leave with plenty of fantastic photos and stories to share.

The Sum Up

The Los Gigantes dolphin and whale watching speedboat tour offers a thrilling, value-packed way to experience Tenerife’s rich marine environment. With the chance to see dolphins, whales, and other sea creatures up close, coupled with the breathtaking cliffs and the refreshing swim in pristine waters, it’s a well-rounded adventure.

The small boat size enhances the personal feel, and knowledgeable guides add an extra layer of interest. While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the majority of travelers find themselves thrilled with what they see—and the experience of zipping across the sea is a highlight in itself.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, families with older kids, and anyone eager to combine wildlife viewing with a bit of thrill and relaxation. For the price, it’s a genuine bargain that delivers memorable moments and a deeper appreciation for Tenerife’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, with exact starting times depending on availability. It’s a quick but intense experience.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the speedboat trip, the skipper, and guaranteed wildlife sightings depending on sea conditions. No hotel pickup is provided.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there’s a stop in a bay with crystal-clear waters such as Masca, Barranco Seco, or Juan López, where you can swim or jump in. Remember to bring your swimwear and towel.

Are there any restrictions?
Glass objects are not allowed onboard for safety reasons. Pregnant women can participate at their own risk. Children under 2 years are not permitted.

Is there any chance I won’t see animals?
While most trips have sightings, it’s not guaranteed—this depends on the sea conditions and animal behavior. Guides do their best to find wildlife.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable layers, bring sun protection, and wear suitable clothing for swimming if you plan to take a dip.

How do I find the meeting point?
You need to make your own way to Los Gigantes port. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid missing the boat.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers over 2 years old, especially those comfortable with speed and motion. Not ideal for very young children or those prone to seasickness.

This speedboat trip offers a fantastic balance of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. With most travelers leaving rave reviews about the guides and the experience itself, it’s a great way to make your Tenerife visit truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: