Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience + Los Gigantes and Masca
Sail in a hand-crafted teak sailboat once reserved for an Arabian Sheikh, and discover the wild waters off Tenerife's dramatic western coast.
This whale and dolphin watching tour from Los Gigantes combines genuine marine wildlife encounters with breathtaking views of towering volcanic cliffs and the hidden gorge of Masca. The journey unfolds aboard an authentic oriental sailboat built entirely from teak hardwood, originally commissioned for the private use of an Arabian Sheikh.
The waters off the southwest coast of Tenerife form one of the most active cetacean corridors in the Atlantic, where resident pilot whales and common bottlenose dolphins are spotted on a near-daily basis. Seasonal visitors including fin whales, sperm whales, and loggerhead sea turtles add to the richness of any given excursion.
Los Gigantes, named for its sheer basalt cliffs rising up to 600 metres from the sea, serves as both the departure point and a natural spectacle in itself. The route also traces the coastline toward the ravine village of Masca, one of the most visually striking corners of the Canary Islands.
The sailboat itself is a centrepiece of the experience. Constructed entirely from teak hardwood and originally built for a private Arabian Sheikh, it offers a level of craft and character rarely found in group excursions. The vessel provides a calm, stable platform from which to observe wildlife and scenery alike.
Tour Highlights
Sail through some of the most cetacean-rich waters in the Atlantic, with frequent sightings of pilot whales and dolphins.
Observe marine wildlife including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and occasional sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Cruise beneath the towering volcanic cliffs of Los Gigantes, rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean.
Follow the coastline to the Masca ravine, a geological marvel carved deep into the Teno massif.
Board a one-of-a-kind teak hardwood sailboat with a unique history tied to Arabian royalty.
Rated easy difficulty, making the experience accessible to families, seniors, and first-time sailors.
Enjoy five hours of open sea, Atlantic breezes, and some of the most scenic coastline in the Canary Islands.
Itinerary
The tour begins at Los Gigantes Marina, where guests board the distinctive teak sailboat. The crew provides a safety briefing and an introduction to the route and the wildlife you may encounter.
The boat heads out along the base of the volcanic cliffs, offering close-up views of the towering rock faces that define this stretch of coastline. The scale and colour of the basalt formations are particularly striking from sea level.
The vessel moves into the open waters where resident cetacean populations are most active. The crew uses their local knowledge to locate pilot whale pods and dolphin schools, while guests are encouraged to watch from the deck.
The sailboat continues along the rugged coastline toward the Masca gorge, passing secluded coves and volcanic rock formations accessible only by sea. The landscape here is among the least developed in Tenerife.
The vessel makes its return journey along the coast, offering a final opportunity to spot wildlife before arriving back at the marina after approximately five hours at sea.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- 5-hour sailing excursion aboard an authentic teak sailboat
- Whale and dolphin watching guided experience
- Coastal views of Los Gigantes cliffs and Masca ravine
- Onboard safety equipment and crew supervision
- Small group setting for a more personal experience
Not Included
- Hotel transfers or transport to the marina
- Food and beverages unless stated at booking
- Gratuities for the crew
- Personal travel insurance
- Any optional extras or add-ons
Important Information
Book Your Place on Board
Spaces on this distinctive sailboat are limited. Secure your spot on one of Tenerife's most memorable marine experiences and set sail for the wild Atlantic.
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