Whale Watching Catamaran to Los Gigantes & Masca (Including drinks & warm lunch)

Exploring Tenerife’s Marine Wonderland: A Balanced Look at the Whale Watching Catamaran Tour

If you’re heading to Tenerife and looking for a memorable day on the water, this Whale Watching Catamaran to Los Gigantes & Masca might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice among visitors eager to see local marine creatures like pilot whales, dolphins, and even some of their shy friends in their natural habitat. While it promises scenic views, lively wildlife encounters, and some added comforts, understanding what you get—and what you might not—helps ensure this trip meets your expectations.

What we appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of an open bar and a warm lunch, which turns a simple wildlife cruise into a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Plus, the comprehensive commentary from knowledgeable guides adds value, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the boat can be crowded and that the food may not satisfy all palates, so it’s worth considering if these points are deal-breakers for your group.

This tour is well-suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting to combine wildlife spotting with breathtaking coastal scenery. If you’re after a lively, well-organized outing that balances fun and comfort, this cruise can be a smart pick. Just keep in mind that weather conditions and group size can influence the experience.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Excellent for dolphin and whale lovers seeking a high chance of sightings with expert guides.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes drinks, a warm lunch, and pick-up options, making it a hassle-free day.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Plenty of space to sunbathe and enjoy the scenery, with optional sun beds available for a fee.
• Value for Money: At roughly $69.39 per person, the experience offers a lot—especially the drinks and lunch—considering the scenic and wildlife highlights.
• Weather Sensitivity: The tour is dependent on good weather; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or a different experience.
• Mixed Reviews on Food & Crowds: While some praise the friendly crew and scenic views, others find the food options limited or the boat crowded.

A Deep Dive into the Tenerife Whale Watching Catamaran Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off from Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje, a bustling port well-connected by public transportation and close to many hotels. The meeting is at Av. de Colón, 11, with the departure scheduled at 1:15 pm daily, making it an ideal afternoon activity. Tours run almost year-round, closing only on January 1, with departures happening 364 days a year—an impressive operational record.

Booking in advance is advisable, with the average booking window being 17 days ahead, reflecting its popularity. The tour is capped at 160 travelers, balancing the opportunity for interaction without feeling overly crowded.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The journey begins with a short cruise from Costa Adeje, heading toward the coast’s renowned cliffs of Los Gigantes. As the boat sets sail, the crew and guides start sharing insights about the marine environment—this is especially appreciated by those who love learning about the creatures they might see.

Expect to encounter pilot whales, dolphins (including spotted and bottlenose varieties), and possibly other species. Several reviews note that the marine life sightings are a highlight: “We saw dolphins and whales,” shares a traveler, adding that “the crew was very friendly, and the information was excellent,” making the trip both fun and educational.

Marine Life Spotting: The Main Attraction

The main reason for choosing this tour is, of course, the opportunity to observe marine mammals in their natural habitat. With experienced guides knowing where whales and dolphins have been spotted previously, your chances of seeing them are maximized. Several reviewers have expressed satisfaction with their sightings, though some mention that not everyone always sees whales—which is the unpredictability of wildlife.

The trip’s informative commentary enhances the experience, with guides explaining where these creatures are found, what they eat, and their migrations—adding depth to what might otherwise be a simple sightseeing cruise.

Scenic Highlights: Los Gigantes & Masca

On the return journey, you’ll get a chance to admire the spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes—towering over the ocean and often shrouded in mist, creating a dramatic backdrop. As the boat heads toward Masca, the landscape changes to rugged, mountainous terrain that invites photography and admiration.

The route also allows for sunbathing and relaxing on the deck. Be aware that sun beds are extra and on a first-come, first-served basis, so if lounging is a priority, arrive early to claim them.

Food & Drinks: A Pleasant Surprise

What sets this tour apart from some other wildlife cruises is the included drinks and warm lunch. You can indulge in alcoholic beverages, bottled water, sodas, and light snacks like chicken meatballs, vegetable rice, bread, and bananas. Several reviews remark that the food was “warm and surprisingly good”, with one noting the hot meal as a positive feature.

However, some travelers found the lunch options limited or somewhat basic—”tinned meatballs” or “vegetable rice”—and suggested that fresher or more varied options could improve the experience. Still, for the price point, the included lunch and drinks add notable value.

Sunbathing & Relaxation

The boat offers spaces to sunbathe and relax, making it suitable for those wanting a leisurely trip. While sun beds are available, they come at an additional cost—€25 each—so if you’re keen on lounging in comfort, plan to arrive early. The decks are ample enough to find a sunny spot or shaded seating if preferred.

Navigating the Crowds & Comfort

Opinions vary about the size and atmosphere onboard. Some mention that the boat can feel crowded, especially during peak seasons, which might affect comfort and the ability to find a quiet sunbathing spot. The vessel is described as “big and well-organized”, but with 47 reviews rating it a solid 4.1/5, a few travelers note that it feels a bit busy, and some would prefer a smaller, more intimate boat.

Safety & Weather

One review raised a concern about rough seas and safety measures, indicating that in high waves, the experience might become uncomfortable or even unsafe. The tour operator has a policy of full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to weather, so travelers should be aware that bad weather can impact the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing is ideal for families with kids, wildlife lovers, and those who want a combination of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and leisure. If you enjoy learning about marine life and appreciate a relaxed, social atmosphere with drinks and food included, this cruise ticks many boxes.

However, those seeking a more exclusive or boutique experience might find it a bit crowded or basic in terms of onboard amenities. If food quality is a priority, consider bringing your own snacks or eating beforehand, as the included lunch is simple.

Final Thoughts

This Whale Watching Catamaran Tour offers a hearty mix of marine wildlife sightings, stunning coastal scenery, and relaxing comforts for a reasonable price. The inclusion of an open bar and warm lunch elevates it from just a sightseeing trip to a full afternoon experience. It’s best suited for those who enjoy social atmospheres, wildlife, and scenic views—and don’t mind a possibly crowded boat.

While the food might not be gourmet fare, the knowledgeable guides, scenic route, and the chance to see dolphins and whales at close quarters make this tour a worthwhile adventure. Keep in mind that weather and sea conditions can influence the experience, but the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, lively, and well-organized marine excursion that combines wildlife, scenery, and a touch of leisure, this Tenerife catamaran tour could be just right.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting from the port of Costa Adeje.

What time does the tour depart?
Departure is daily at 1:15 pm, so plan to arrive a little earlier for check-in and to find a good spot.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes. You’ll enjoy alcoholic beverages, bottled water, soda, and a warm lunch consisting of chicken meatballs, vegetable rice, bread, and bananas.

Can I sunbathe during the trip?
Yes, there are areas to sunbathe and relax on the deck. Sun beds are available for an extra fee (€25), on a first-come, first-served basis.

What are the chances of seeing whales and dolphins?
Many travelers report success in spotting dolphins and pilot whales, especially with guides knowing where to look. However, wildlife sightings depend on sea conditions and animal activity, so there’s always an element of luck.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, especially since it’s a relaxed, safe environment. Keep in mind that seas can be choppy, so young children should be comfortable with boat rides.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to inclement conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

In summary, this tour balances wildlife encounters, scenic coastal views, and onboard comforts. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a lively, educational, and fun day on Tenerife’s waters—perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Just be prepared for the possibility of crowds and keep your expectations flexible for wildlife sightings—nature is unpredictable, after all.