Cliffs and whales in one smooth sail. This Los Gigantes trip pairs real wildlife time in the Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve with a comfy, small-boat feel that makes watching and filming feel easy. I also love the built-in break where you can swim or snorkel in clear water right by the dramatic rock walls.

The one thing to plan around: wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, so you might see more whales than dolphins depending on the day.

Small-group sailing: shared trips keep the group tight (max 9 guests), so it feels calm instead of chaotic.

Serious viewpoint: you get multiple photo moments of the 600-meter-high Cliffs of the Giants.

Swim + snorkel stop: clear-water cove time with snorkeling gear provided.

Food on board: appetizers, fruit, drinks, and a Spanish-style lunch/snack setup.

Guides who care: captains like Antonio and Francesco focus on respectful viewing and smooth sailing.

Los Gigantes Departure: What It Feels Like on a 14-Meter Sailboat

This is a sailing tour, not a cattle-car speedboat. You board at MPC Yacht Charter in Los Gigantes and head out on the 14-meter sailboat El Mojo Picón, designed for comfort while you cruise along Tenerife’s coast. The vibe is laid-back from the start: you can settle in, enjoy the sea air, and keep your eyes up for blows, fins, and sudden dolphin energy.

The big advantage here is the group size. Shared excursions run with a maximum of 9 guests, and private charters are available (up to 10 people). That matters because whale watching is easier when you aren’t squeezed by strangers trying to get the exact same angle on the same moment.

A note on who it might not fit

The tour is listed as wheelchair accessible, but it’s also marked as not suitable for people with mobility impairments and for those with heart problems. If that applies to you, I’d treat it as a “check first” situation and confirm with MPC Yacht Charter before you book.

Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve: Whale and Dolphin Watching That’s Built for Respect

The main point of this tour is time on the water searching for whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. You sail through one of the Canary Islands’ most biodiverse marine areas, tied to the Teno-Rasca Marine Reserve, and you’re given the chance to spot cetaceans along with other wildlife such as sea turtles and fish.

A recurring theme from the experience: the crew doesn’t treat this like a drive-by. One of the best signals you’ll feel is respectful behavior around animals—slowing down and, in some cases, cutting engines well before approaching whales. That helps keep the encounter calm, and it also gives you a better chance to watch natural behavior instead of just watching them react.

What animals you might actually see

Based on the pattern of sightings, you could be in the mix for:

• Dolphins that may swim alongside for stretches of time
• Pilot whales, sometimes very close (some accounts describe ranges of a few meters)
• Sea turtles spotted during the trip
• Lots of fish near the snorkeling cove

And here’s the reality check: sightings can vary. If the sea life isn’t in the exact mood you want that day, you’ll still be on a nice sail with cliffs and a swim stop—but you might not get the same mix of whales and dolphins.

The 600-Meter Cliffs of the Giants: Photos Without the Rush

Los Gigantes is one of Tenerife’s most photogenic stretches, with the rock walls rising around 600 meters above the sea. This trip gives you time to enjoy those views from the water in a way that feels unhurried. You’re not just snapping photos from one angle; the coastline keeps unfolding as the boat sails along and you pause where it makes sense.

I like that the tour includes a relaxed stop at the base of the cliffs with snacks, fruit, and drinks. It turns the cliffs from a “quick look” into an actual moment you can enjoy—watch the light change, take video from a steady spot, and let the experience slow down a notch.

The Snorkel and Swim Cove: Clear Water, Gear Included, Short-Window Timing

The tour anchors in a secluded cove where the water is clear enough for swimming and snorkeling. You get snorkeling gear included, so you don’t have to hunt for rentals or carry extra stuff through Tenerife. This is also where you’ll tend to see more of the underwater action—colorful fish and rock-edge wildlife that you won’t notice from the boat.

One practical consideration: the amount of time in the water can be limited. Some accounts describe the swim window as brief (around 10 minutes), while others describe longer snorkeling sessions depending on conditions and the day’s flow. So if you’re hoping for a long, relaxed swim, you’ll want to arrive ready to make the most of the time you’re given.

What to bring for the water part

Bring a towel, and plan to have a jacket handy too, since evenings and open water can cool you down. A camera (or phone with a good waterproof case) helps a lot here—snorkel moments look great, but you don’t want to spend the best part fumbling for the right setup.

Food and Drinks at Sea: Appetizers, Spanish Snacks, and a Real Break

This tour feeds you. That sounds small, but on a 3-hour boat day, it makes a huge difference in how you feel. You’re not stuck working up hunger just to keep hunting for whales.

On board, expect a spread that leans Spanish and casual:

• Appetizers and fruit
• Drinks throughout the trip
• A light lunch/snack style that many people describe as good quality
• From what you’ll commonly hear, items include things like tortilla and local cheese, plus tapas-style platters (like cured meats and assorted cheeses)

Some trips even include music on board, which adds to the easygoing feel while you’re drifting near the cliffs or waiting for the next sighting.

Private vs shared food notes

If you book a private charter, the food setup is described as including a light brunch. Shared tours still include snacks and drinks, and the overall pattern is that you’ll eat enough to feel satisfied after swimming.

Crew and Captain Style: The Antonio and Francesco Factor

The crew can make or break a wildlife tour, and this one has a consistent theme: guides who talk to you like humans and know where to look. Names that show up often include Antonio (captain) and Francesco (also referenced), and the feedback around both is strongly positive.

What makes the difference in practice:

• They explain what you’re seeing and what you might see next
• They share insights about marine life and the volcanic scenery of the area
• They keep the experience relaxed, so you’re not stuck in a constant “look here, now look there” mode

You’ll also notice a “small boat advantage” that helps: with fewer passengers, the crew can answer questions faster and adjust based on animal behavior and sea conditions without turning it into a scene.

A smart tip: motion sickness prep

Some people note that the sail can feel smooth, but seas still move. If you’re even slightly prone to motion sickness, take your usual travel medication before you go. It’s one of those boring preparations that saves your whole day.

Price and Value for a 3-Hour Los Gigantes Whale Tour at $76

At $76 per person for about 3 hours, this sits in the “good value if you care about the experience” category. What you’re paying for isn’t just time on a boat—it’s:

• a small-group format (so you get space and attention),
• time searching for real wildlife,
• snorkeling gear included,
• and food + drinks included, which cuts down on extra spending in town.

If you tried to piece this together yourself—boat time, snorkeling gear, and a proper snack spread—you’d likely spend more than the tour price, especially once you factor in convenience. Also, the cliffs part isn’t filler. The 600-meter scenery is a major draw, and the tour actually builds in time to enjoy it.

Who Should Book This Tour (and Who Might Want Another Option)

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A calm small-boat vibe over crowded mass tourism
• A chance to see whales and dolphins without leaving the water too quickly
• A “half wildlife, half experience” day with snorkeling and a snack break
• An easy outing for families and couples, since the pace is relaxed and the boat feels comfortable

You might think twice if:

• You require long, uninterrupted water time (the swim window can be short)
• You have mobility limits or heart issues, since the tour listing includes restrictions for those conditions
• You need a guaranteed dolphin-or-whale guarantee (nature is nature, and sightings vary)

Should You Book MPC Yacht Charter in Los Gigantes?

If you want a practical, high-reward Tenerife experience, I’d book it—especially if you care about getting close to marine life in a respectful way and you’re excited about snorkeling by the cliffs. The small-group setup, the included gear, and the snack-and-drink break make this feel like money well spent for a 3-hour day.

Just go in with two expectations: sightings can vary day to day, and the snorkel time is built into the 3-hour rhythm. If that sounds fine, you’ll likely come away with exactly what most people want from this coast—boats, cliffs, sea life, and a day that feels easy from start to finish.

FAQ

How long is the whale and dolphin watching sailing tour?

It runs for 3 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at MPC Yacht Charter. Your confirmation voucher will be your guide for where to go.

Do I get snorkeling gear?

Yes. Snorkeling gear is included.

What kind of wildlife can I see?

The tour is designed for spotting whales and dolphins, and you may also see sea turtles and fish.

Is food and drinks included?

Yes. The experience includes appetizers and drinks, and a light lunch/snack setup is provided.

Are private charters available?

Yes. You can book private or small-group options (private charters are up to 10 people).

What should I bring?

Bring a towel, a camera, and a jacket.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

It’s listed as wheelchair accessible, but it’s also marked as not suitable for mobility impairments. Check with the operator before booking.

Are alcohol or drugs allowed?

You cannot bring alcohol and drugs. The tour includes drinks, but you shouldn’t bring outside alcohol.

Is it a good tour if I might get seasick?

If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to prepare. Some people recommend taking travel sickness medicine before the trip.

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