Los Gigantes: Sailing Excursion with Swimming, Drink & Tapas

If you’re considering a boat trip around Los Gigantes in Tenerife, this 3-hour sailing excursion offers a wonderful blend of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation. Operated by Blue Dream Sailing, the tour takes you along the dramatic red cliffs, into tranquil bays, and out into the open sea, with chances to see dolphins and whales, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy authentic tapas and drinks.

What I really like about this experience is the small-group setting—limited to just 10 participants—which keeps things intimate and relaxed. Plus, the crew’s knowledge and friendliness shine through, making everything feel more personal than a typical large tour. The second highlight? The quality of what’s on offer: fresh tapas, plentiful drinks, and excellent opportunities to see marine life up close.

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a fully customizable private charter. If you’re hoping for a longer trip or specific activities like caves or extensive swimming, you might find the 3-hour length somewhat limiting. Still, for those who value authenticity, good value, and a chance to connect with nature, this trip hits the mark.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert skipper and guides like Luis and Moises are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, pilot whales, sea turtles, manta rays, and octopi—viewing in crystal-clear waters is often spectacular.
• Snorkeling stops give you a chance to see marine life up close, often near Los Gigantes’ cliffs.
• Onboard food and drinks include delicious tapas and unlimited beverages, making the trip feel like a treat.
• The scenery is unforgettable, with soaring red cliffs and quiet coves that seem untouched.
• Cost-to-value ratio is high at $79 per person, offering an authentic experience with plenty of memorable moments.

The Real Deal: An Honest Look at the Los Gigantes Sailing Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

This tour departs from Puerto de Los Gigantes at the Muelle Deportivo La Marina Los Gigantes Dock 1. It’s a straightforward meeting point, especially if you’re already exploring the area. The boat, called the Sangría, is small—maxing out at 10 guests—so you won’t feel crowded. The trip lasts exactly three hours, which feels just right; long enough to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, but not so lengthy that it drags.

Because this is a small-group tour, you’ll get a chance to chat with the crew, ask questions, and enjoy a more laid-back vibe. The tour runs in different times—so check availability for a starting slot that suits your plans—and you’ll want to arrive prepared with essentials like your ID, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.

The Scenic Route: Beauty of Los Gigantes Cliffs and Bays

From the start, the boat takes you along the iconic red cliffs of Los Gigantes. These towering rock formations are a highlight, offering dramatic scenery that’s best savored from the water. The crew often points out interesting features and shares stories, making the experience more engaging.

The boat stops in tranquil bays and natural coves, perfect for swimming or just relaxing on deck. Many reviews mention how serene and beautiful these spots are—an ideal break from busy tourist spots—and a chance to dip into the cool, clear waters.

Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, Whales, and Sea Turtles

One of the biggest draws is the chance to see dolphins and whales. Many reviews highlight multiple sightings, including pilot whales and even pilot whale pods, with some guests lucky enough to see dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The guides are experienced and attentive, often tracking marine life with binoculars and helping everyone get great views.

A few reviews note the crew’s dedication to spotting the animals; one mentions how they made sure everyone saw the whales, which makes a big difference when you’re out at sea. Besides cetaceans, snorkelers can expect to see sea turtles, manta rays, and octopi—a highlight for many.

Snorkeling and Marine Life: Close Encounters

The trip includes a snorkeling stop in a quiet bay where the waters are calm and transparent. The provided snorkeling gear is sufficient, but some reviews suggest bringing your own if you’re particular about quality. Snorkelers often remark on how easy it is to see sea turtles, manta rays, and octopi up close, which feels like an authentic wildlife encounter rather than a staged show.

Snorkeling here isn’t lengthy, but enough to enjoy the marine environment and highlight the contrast between the quiet coves and open sea. It’s a highlight for nature lovers and families alike.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The onboard tapas are described as simple but tasty, often including vegetables and snacks that complement the drinks. Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included—something many reviewers appreciate, especially after a swim or wildlife sighting.

One review emphasized how the absence of music allowed passengers to truly enjoy the sounds of the ocean, which I find a lovely touch. It creates an atmosphere of calm and connection to nature that larger, noisier tours often miss.

Staff and Guides: Friendly and Knowledgeable

The crew consistently earns praise for their professionalism. Guests mention guides like Luis, Moises, and others by name, highlighting their helpfulness and knowledge. The guides’ ability to answer questions in multiple languages—Spanish, English, and French—is a big plus, especially for international travelers.

Many reviews emphasize how relaxed and friendly the crew is, making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed. They’re attentive without being overbearing, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Value and Who It’s Best For

With a ticket price of $79 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the number of wildlife sightings, scenic views, and the casual, intimate setting. Compared to larger tours, it’s often seen as a more authentic and personal experience—especially with only 10 guests.

This trip suits families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a smaller, more relaxed outing. It’s ideal if you’re looking to see marine life, enjoy scenic photography, and spend quality time on the water without feeling rushed or crowded.

Considerations and Tips

• The tour lasts 3 hours, so plan accordingly—if you want more snorkeling or scenery, look for longer options.
• Bring your own snorkel gear if available, as some reviews hint at gear quality.
• Wear sunscreen, bring a towel, and dress comfortably for sun and water.
• No fishing, smoking, or touching marine animals allowed, which preserves the environment but limits some activities.
• If you’re traveling with young children or babies, ensure they’re booked in advance for a spot on this small boat.
• Vegetarian and vegan options are available; notify the provider beforehand.

Who It’s Perfect For

This sailing trip is great for travelers who love wildlife, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who value small groups and attentive guides. If you’re after a quick yet memorable outing with chances to see dolphins and whales in a beautiful setting, this tour delivers.

It’s also a fantastic choice for families or couples wanting a special experience without the crowds of larger boats. Food and drinks are a nice bonus, adding comfort and a social touch.

However, if you’re looking for an all-day adventure, cave explorations, or extensive swimming, this 3-hour trip might feel a bit short. Still, for a taste of Tenerife’s marine life with a dash of scenic beauty, it’s tough to beat the value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts exactly 3 hours, providing plenty of time for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Muelle Deportivo La Marina Los Gigantes Dock 1, a convenient and identifiable meeting point in the town.

What is included in the price?
You get whale and dolphin watching, snorkeling gear, unlimited drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks), and delicious tapas. The skipper and guides are also part of the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join, but they must be booked in advance to ensure their place. There’s a limit of 4 children per tour.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring passport or ID, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Consider bringing your own snorkeling equipment if you’re particular about gear.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Is there a chance of seeing whales and dolphins?
Absolutely. Many guests report seeing dolphins, pilot whales, and even other marine life, thanks to the attentive guides and responsible wildlife tracking.

To sum it up, this Los Gigantes sailing experience offers a genuinely enjoyable and authentic taste of Tenerife’s marine life and coastal beauty. The small group size, friendly crew, and quality of food and wildlife encounters make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a touristy cruise. It’s best suited for those who value a relaxed pace, meaningful wildlife sightings, and the chance to connect with nature in a stunning setting. If you’re after a memorable, affordable excursion that combines scenic beauty with wildlife, this trip is well worth considering.