A few hours on the water beats most plans. This Los Gigantes sailing excursion takes you past Tenerife’s red cliffs, then out for a chance at dolphins and whales, plus a proper swim-and-snorkel stop with snacks onboard. The small-group setup (max 10) makes it feel more like a relaxed day trip than a cattle-call tour.

Two things I really like: the mix of scenery and sea time, and the way the crew keeps it organized without crowding you. One consideration: the trip is only 3 hours, so if you’re hoping for long whale-spotting sessions, you may feel the timing is a bit tight.

Key points if you want the real deal

• Max 10 people keeps the boat calm, with plenty of room to move around
• Los Gigantes cliffs by sail gives you a closer, more scenic view than you’ll get from shore
• Snorkel stop targets sea life like sea turtles, octopi, and manta rays
• Tapas and drinks onboard turn the ride home into part of the fun
• No on-deck crowd noise: one of the standout vibes is enjoying the ocean sounds
• Experienced skipper and guides help you spot wildlife and use the snorkel time well

First Look: Los Gigantes Cliffs from a Small Sailing Boat (Sangría)

Los Gigantes is one of those Tenerife places where your eyes don’t know where to focus first. The cliffs look dramatic from the road, but from the water you actually get to track their shape, color, and height as the boat glides along. On this trip, you’ll cruise through bays and natural coves around the area, with the coastline doing most of the storytelling.

I like the small-group feel here. With a limit of 10 participants, you’re not constantly weaving around strangers, and it’s easier for the crew to guide you during the swim and snorkel stop. The boat is named Sangría, and the atmosphere is “do the thing, then enjoy it”—not frantic, not loud.

One more plus: the sailing is part of the experience, not just the transportation. If you like time on deck—shade where you can find it, fresh sea air, and the sound of waves—you’ll get your money’s worth in the ride itself, not just in the wildlife search.

The 3-Hour Flow: Puerto de Los Gigantes, Bays, and One Solid Snorkel Stop

The timing is simple and efficient. You start at Puerto de Los Gigantes, and you’ll set off from Muelle Deportivo La Marina Los Gigantes Dock 1. The total experience runs about 3 hours, with multiple stops built into that window.

Here’s what the flow usually feels like:

• Cruise along the coast near Los Gigantes as the boat follows the red cliffs and finds calmer water pockets
• Bays and natural coves for a swim break and a change of scenery
• A deeper-water snorkeling session where you’re more likely to see interesting sea life than in the most crowded shallows
• Tapas and drinks on deck to round out the trip, often toward the end

The best part of this schedule is that it doesn’t force you to choose between views and water time. You get the cliff scenery while sailing, then you get your moment in the water. The only drawback is that you don’t have an all-day window—so you’ll want to go with a mindset of compact fun, not “linger forever” at one spot.

Also, plan for a classic swim logistics reality: you’ll get wet, you’ll need sunscreen protection, and you’ll likely want to be able to dry off quickly. The tour includes snorkeling gear, but you still bring the practical stuff yourself.

Wildlife Search: Dolphins and Pilot Whales Close to the Boat

The whole point of this sailing trip is to hunt for marine sightings on the open water. The boat heads out in search of dolphins and whales, and when conditions are right, the sightings can be very close—close enough that you notice how the animals move, not just that you spotted a “dot” in the water.

What you can realistically expect:

• You’ll be out long enough for the crew to scout and position the boat
• The skipper and guides are actively involved in helping you spot what’s around (not just passively cruising)
• If you’re lucky, you’ll see the kind of behavior that makes it feel special—like pods swimming near the boat

One fair heads-up from people who did this: if your priority is staying at whale locations for a long stretch, the short overall duration may feel like you’re moving on before you’re ready. In other words, this is a “go find it and enjoy the sightings” trip, not a slow-moving, hours-long whale vigil.

Still, that short format is also part of the value. You get multiple shots on your wildlife checklist—then you switch gears into snorkeling and relaxing onboard rather than burning the whole day waiting.

Snorkeling in Clear Water Near the Red Cliffs (Sea Turtles, Manta Rays, Octopi)

This is where the trip becomes more than a “watch from the deck” experience. You’ll stop for snorkeling, and the tour is designed for you to see marine life in clear water.

The specific animals highlighted for snorkel time include:

• sea turtles
• manta rays
• octopi

Even if you don’t see every creature listed, the key is the overall snorkeling setup: a dedicated stop, included snorkeling gear, and a location chosen for visibility and wildlife potential. When the water is clear, snorkeling near the Los Gigantes area can feel like a different world compared to standing on land.

Two practical considerations. First, the provided snorkeling gear may not be perfect for everyone. I’d strongly consider bringing your own mask (and maybe fins) if you’re picky about fit or comfort—especially if you’ve had bad experiences with loose masks in the past.

Second, do your part for a respectful and safe swim. The rules clearly say you should not touch marine life. That protects you and the animals, and it keeps the snorkel session focused on watching instead of interacting.

If you want a snorkel stop that feels like it has a purpose, this one does.

Tapas, Drinks, and the Calm Deck Vibe (Why It Feels Better Than Loud Tours)

For a lot of sailing trips, food is an afterthought. Here, tapas and drinks are a real part of the experience. After you’ve been out on the water, you’ll settle back onboard with tapas and an included drink—either alcohol or soft drink—while the coastline and cliffs slip by again.

A couple of things I like about the food-and-drink rhythm:

• It’s timed so you’re fueled after swimming and snorkeling
• People consistently describe the tapas as a satisfying finish, not a token snack
• The deck feels relaxed enough that you can actually enjoy conversation and the sea sounds

One surprisingly praised detail: there’s no onboard music, which lets you hear the ocean. That might sound small, but it changes the mood. Instead of yelling over a soundtrack, you’re hearing waves and wind. It’s the kind of difference that makes a 3-hour trip feel slower—in the best way.

One note on soft drinks: there’s mention that non-alcoholic choices could be broader. If you have a strong preference, it’s smart to keep an open mind and come prepared with your expectations set to “what’s included is what’s included.”

Price and Value: Is $82 Worth It for a Los Gigantes Sail?

At $82 per person for a 3-hour outing, you’re paying for several things that add up fast: time on a sailboat, skipper-led wildlife searching, included snorkeling gear, and tapas plus drinks. You’re not just buying transportation to a viewpoint.

The value gets even better because of the format. Small group means the experience is easier to manage, and it’s more likely you’ll get attention when it matters—during instructions and during the snorkel moment. That attention is part of why people report feeling comfortable and safe on the water.

Also, this isn’t a “sit in a bus, take a photo, move on” kind of trip. You’re actively on the coast, actively swimming, and actively looking for marine life. If your Tenerife days skew toward beaches and viewpoints from land, this gives you a different angle fast.

Where you might decide it’s not for you: if you hate the idea of a time-limited wildlife search, or if you’re the type who wants hours in one spot instead of a moving itinerary, you might feel the pacing is a touch rushed. But if you want a balanced hit of cliffs, sea life, and food onboard, it’s a strong deal.

Practical Tips You’ll Be Glad You Follow (What to Bring and What to Skip)

This is a water trip, so pack like you’re going snorkeling, not like you’re going sightseeing. Here’s what you should bring:

• passport or ID card
• swimwear
• towel
• sunscreen

You’re also wise to come ready for sun and salt—especially if you’ll be out in the open water before the swim. The tour rules are clear about what not to do on board and around wildlife, including no touching marine life and no feeding animals. Don’t bring weapons or sharp objects, and there’s no smoking allowed.

A few extra real-world tips:

• If you’re sensitive to fit, consider bringing your own snorkel mask. Gear is included, but comfort can be hit-or-miss.
• Sunscreen first, not later. Once you’re in and out of the water, reapplying is a hassle.
• If you’re traveling with kids, note that the boat can accommodate up to 4 children per tour for free when booked. This is a small boat, so count on the limit feeling real.

If you do these things, you’ll spend more time enjoying and less time “fixing” comfort.

Should You Book This Los Gigantes Sailing Excursion with Swimming?

I’d book it if you want a Tenerife tour that feels like being on the water with an organized crew—not being herded around. This trip hits a good mix: Los Gigantes cliffs by sail, a true swim-and-snorkel stop, and a wildlife search that can produce excellent dolphin and whale sightings when conditions cooperate. The inclusion of tapas and drinks is the cherry on top, especially since it’s served in that calm, ocean-sound deck atmosphere.

Skip it (or think twice) if your dream day is long whale watching with zero movement, or if you’re very picky about snorkel equipment quality. The 3-hour format is efficient, but it isn’t unlimited.

One final check: you’re traveling to a specific dock, so make sure you can get yourself to Muelle Deportivo La Marina Los Gigantes Dock 1 on time. Do that, and you’ll be set up for a genuinely fun half-day at sea.

FAQ

How long is the Los Gigantes sailing excursion?

The duration is 3 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

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

How many people are on the boat?

It’s a small group with a maximum of 10 participants.

What’s included in the ticket price?

The experience includes a visit to the Los Gigantes cliffs, stops in bays and natural coves, an alcohol or soft drink, tapas, snorkeling gear, and a skipper and guide.

What should I bring for swimming and snorkeling?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. You should also bring your passport or ID card.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included.

Does the trip include dolphin and whale watching?

Yes. The boat sails out to search for dolphins and whales.

What marine life might you see during the snorkeling stop?

The snorkeling stop is aimed at seeing sea turtles, manta rays, and octopi.

Are vegetarian or vegan tapas options available?

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

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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