Sailing out past Los Gigantes cliffs is pure reset time. You get a private yacht experience with a real skipper, plus time to swim and snorkel in clear water, then come back to deck drinks and tapas. What I like most: the trip is built around marine-life time (dolphins and whales, plus turtles and manta rays), and the onboard vibe stays relaxed, not rushed. One thing to consider: you’ll want to book this for good weather, because the sea conditions can affect how comfortable the swim and snorkeling stops feel.

You also start with a simple rhythm that’s easy for most people: hotel pickup in the Los Gigantes area, then a straightforward ride to the dock to board. The boat itself is often described as clean and well run, and the crew’s service seems to be a big part of the appeal—especially for special occasions. The only drawback I see for some folks: since it’s private and priced per group up to 11, it can feel pricey if you’re traveling solo or as a small pair.

Key things I’d watch for before you go

• Private sailing with a real skipper: you’re not sharing the boat scene with strangers.
• Whale and dolphin chances: the coastline cruise is timed for sightings, not just sightseeing photos.
• Snorkeling gear included: you can pack lighter and spend the day in the water.
• Turtles, manta rays, and octopus: the snorkel stop is the big marine-life moment.
• Tapas plus drinks on deck: it’s not only a swim day; it’s a full leisure outing.
• Up to 11 people per group: best value when you fill the group space.

Why Los Gigantes by private yacht feels different

Los Gigantes has that dramatic red-cliff look you’ll instantly recognize, but there’s a big difference between seeing cliffs from land and seeing them from the water. On this sailing, those cliffs become your backdrop while you glide through bays and natural coves, which makes the whole coast feel calmer and more intimate.

What helps is that the day isn’t just “sail, stop, go.” It’s built around transitions. You cruise along the coast first, so your eyes adjust from shore views to open water. Then you spend real time out at sea for swimming and snorkeling, where the water clarity does the talking. After that, you shift back onto deck with drinks and tapas, so the day ends as a social, comfortable experience rather than a quick stop-and-sprint activity.

Getting picked up and meeting at Dock 1 (no stress, just steps)

The flow is pretty easy. You’re picked up from your hotel in the Los Gigantes area and brought to the port. Your meeting point is Muelle Deportivo La Marina Los Gigantes, Dock 1, and that’s where you meet your skipper and board the yacht named Sangría.

This matters because Tenerife can be a bit hectic around the main beachfront areas. A dedicated pickup and a clear dock meeting point helps you avoid the “where exactly is the boat” scramble. If you’re the type who likes a plan, you’ll appreciate the structure: pickup → dock → meet crew → set sail.

Tip: wear sunscreen early. You’ll likely spend long minutes on deck between the sail and the water time, and you don’t want to start thinking about sun protection once you’re already out there.

Cruising the red-cliff coast: bays, coves, and marine-life chances

Once you’re aboard, the first part is about motion and scenery. The skipper heads along the coastline with the iconic red cliffs of Tenerife in view. Then the boat moves into quieter areas, with stops in hidden coves and calm bays.

This is the kind of cruising that makes a difference for most people:

• You’re not stuck in one spot. The scenery changes as you travel along the coast.
• Those coves and bays often give a more comfortable feel for swimming and relaxing later.
• If you’re hoping to see dolphins and whales, this leg is where you can get lucky, since the day is designed around wildlife possibilities.

In fact, some past groups specifically called out dolphin and whale sightings, including pilot whales. Even if you don’t get a whale surface show, the ride still works because you’re moving through the dramatic coast while staying on a private boat deck.

The snorkel stop: turtles, manta rays, and octopus time

The heart of the experience is the snorkeling session out at sea. After sailing past the coast and finding calmer spots, you head farther out for a deep snorkel break. The idea is simple: jump in, snorkel in clear water, and look around for the marine life that lives in this part of the ocean.

Based on the tour info, you should expect a chance to see:

• sea turtles
• octopuses
• manta rays

And that’s why it’s worth paying attention to a couple practical details. First, touching marine life isn’t allowed, so plan to observe without handling. Second, snorkel gear is included, which removes one common friction point. You don’t have to rent equipment at the last second or worry about whether it fits.

What I like about this setup is that it turns the day into more than scenery. It becomes an underwater experience, and the included gear helps you actually do it. The water is described as crystal clear, and in places like this, clarity is everything for seeing color and movement.

A small consideration: snorkeling comfort varies person to person. Bring your expectations down to basics. You’re looking and floating, not conducting research. If you’re prone to cold water, you might want to stay relaxed between the water time and the deck time so you can enjoy the full day.

Deck time with drinks and tapas: the social half of the day

After swimming, you return to the deck for the relaxed part: drinks and tapas while you’re still out on the water. This is the moment where the trip stops feeling like a “tour” and starts feeling like a private boat day.

The tapas can be a simple pleasure, but I appreciate it here because it keeps the pacing slow. You’re not expected to squeeze in a restaurant schedule. You’re already outside, you’re already settled, and food plus a drink gives you an easy way to unwind.

One extra detail that stands out from past experiences: the crew has shown real flexibility with special moments. In one birthday case, the team arranged a small birthday cake spontaneously. That tells me they care about the experience beyond the basics, which is exactly what you want on a private trip.

If you have dietary needs, vegetarian and vegan options are available—just tell the provider before the tour. Don’t wait until you’re hungry and trying to solve it on a moving boat.

Picking the right duration: 3 to 8 hours

This sailing offers durations from 3 to 8 hours, depending on availability. That range is useful because it lets you choose how intense you want the day to be.

Here’s how I’d think about it:

• Shorter (closer to 3 hours): ideal if you mainly want the coastline cruise plus one solid swim window. Best for families with kids who get tired, or for anyone who doesn’t want a long block in the sun.
• Longer (closer to 8 hours): best if you want more time for lounging on deck and a more unhurried snorkeling break. Also a good fit if your group is there to celebrate or simply take it slow.

Because it’s private, your group’s energy matters. A longer trip can be great if everyone is comfortable moving between sail, water time, and deck time. If half your group prefers staying on board and the other half wants maximum time in the water, longer durations can help everyone feel satisfied.

Price and value: $765 per group up to 11

The price is $765 per group up to 11. That’s the kind of number that can feel steep if you’re thinking per person and you’re not filling the boat space.

But private sailing is different from ticketed attractions. You’re paying for:

• a dedicated skipper
• the yacht time as your private space
• snorkeling stops plus snorkeling gear
• drinks and tapas included
• hotel-area pickup to get you to the port

So the value improves dramatically as you fill your group. If you’re traveling as a small group, you can still make it worthwhile by thinking of it as a “one-stop” day: you’re getting transport, food, and the main water activities bundled together.

If you’re a solo traveler, you might prefer a shared boat tour to reduce cost. If you’re a couple, a small family, or a group of friends, this starts to make more sense—especially because it’s a private setting where the crew can adapt to your pace.

What to pack (and what to avoid) for a smooth day

The essentials are spelled out, and you’ll be happier if you treat them like a checklist.

Bring:

• swimwear
• a towel
• sunscreen
• passport or ID card

If you forget the swimwear or towel, you’ll feel it immediately, since this tour includes water time and deck relaxation where comfort matters.

Not allowed includes:

• fishing
• feeding animals
• touching marine life
• fireworks
• alcohol and drugs

That last one is worth noting. Drinks are included, so the rule likely means don’t bring your own or mix in anything unsafe. Either way, it’s a good reminder: keep the day clean and focused on enjoying the sea.

Who this private sail suits best (and who should pass)

This experience fits best if you want the mix of coast + sea life without the usual crowds. It’s a strong match for:

• people who want a calmer day than a bus tour
• anyone interested in snorkeling and marine life
• families and groups who like a private setting
• couples looking for a special boat day (and yes, it can be handled with real care for celebrations)

It may not be ideal if:

• you’re strictly budget-oriented and would rather spend less on one activity
• your group isn’t comfortable with any snorkeling time or time in open water
• you can’t be flexible with sea conditions (since the experience depends on the water and visibility)

Should you book this private sailing tour?

I’d book it if you’re going for a relaxed private day that includes both cruising and real water time. The biggest pull is the combination of marine-life snorkeling plus the comfort of drinks and tapas on deck, all with a skipper guiding the route and stops.

It’s also a good choice if you can fill out the group size (up to 11), because the price becomes much easier to justify. If you’re traveling just two people, consider your expectations: are you paying for the boat privacy and included snorkeling experience, or would you rather spend less with a shared option?

FAQ

How long is the Los Gigantes private sailing tour?

The duration ranges from 3 to 8 hours, depending on availability and the starting time you choose.

How much does the tour cost?

It’s listed at $765 per group, for groups up to 11 people.

Where do we meet the skipper?

You meet at Muelle Deportivo La Marina Los Gigantes Dock 1.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?

No. Snorkeling gear is included.

Is swimwear and a towel provided?

Swimwear and a towel are not included, so you’ll need to bring your own.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are the private sailing tour with a skipper/guide, swimming and snorkeling stops, alcoholic or soft drinks, tapas, and snorkeling gear.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available if you notify the activity provider in advance.

What languages are spoken during the tour?

The live guide speaks Spanish, English, and French.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any rules about the water or marine life?

Yes. Fishing is not allowed, and you’re not allowed to feed or touch marine life.

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