Los Gigantes turns animal-spotting into a full-on sea day. This tour pairs dolphins and whales with big cliff views of Masca and Los Gigantes, then adds a proper swim stop with a trapeze and onboard paella.

I really like the way the crew runs it like a lively, easygoing trip, not just a wildlife search. Two standouts for me are the paella lunch (chicken and vegetables, depending on your option) and the fact that you get time in the Atlantic instead of only looking from the boat.

One thing to keep in mind: you’re not guaranteed dolphins or whales. Sightings depend on sea conditions, so set your expectations to enjoy the day even if wildlife is light.

Key Points at a Glance

• Dolphins and whales are conditional, based on sea conditions
• Masca and Los Gigantes cliffs give you constant photo-worthy scenery
• Trapeze + stairs make the swim stop fun for thrill-seekers and cautious swimmers
• Drinks and Canarian schnapps are part of the experience on board
• Paella with chicken and vegetables comes with the longer option
• Be there 30 minutes early so you don’t lose your spot

Where You Start: Los Gigantes Makes It Easy

The tour leaves from Los Gigantes harbor, right where the action is. To find your check-in fast, look for the Flipper Uno office at the harbor entrance on the right-hand side, and spot staff in yellow uniforms.

The timing matters. You’ll want to arrive 30 minutes before the departure time because late arrivals don’t get a refund or reschedule. It’s a small detail, but it can make the difference between boarding smoothly and standing around wondering where the boat went.

The boat itself includes the basics you hope for: toilets onboard and space to move around during the ride and when they drop anchor.

Wildlife Watching Without the Pressure

This is a dolphin and whale watching tour, and you’ll spend real time scanning the water. When conditions allow, the guide points out what to look for, and you get commentary about the marine life along the way.

Now for the honest part: you cannot count on seeing whales. Even with a good crew and good luck, the operator notes sightings depend on the conditions of the sea. That’s why I treat it like a wildlife outing with a bonus swim, not a guarantee for specific animals.

If you do get lucky, you’re in for a memorable moment. Many people love how close the pods can come when the sea cooperates, and the guides tend to keep the energy up while you’re watching. It’s also helpful that the tour is multilingual (Spanish, English, French, German), so the marine explanations land for more of the group.

Masca and Los Gigantes Cliffs: The View Portion That’s Worth It

Even if wildlife isn’t constant, the scenery keeps paying you back. After the boat’s search phase, the trip heads toward the cliffs of Masca and Los Gigantes, some of the tallest in the world, reaching nearly 600 meters.

This is where you get the classic sense of Los Gigantes: sharp rock walls, coastal angles that look different every few minutes, and lots of chances to stop and look. I like that the route isn’t just straight wildlife chasing—it builds in a high-visibility scenery segment.

If you’re traveling with people who aren’t sure they want a full day at sea, this helps. The cliffs give everyone something to enjoy even when the birds-and-water action is slower.

The Swim Stop in Clear Water (With Real Getting-Wet Options)

The heart of the fun is the swim stop. The boat drops anchor in a bay with clear water, and you get free time to cool off in the Atlantic Ocean.

Here’s the practical plus: you have multiple ways to enter. Use the stairs if you’d rather go slowly, or use the trapeze if you want a swing-and-jump moment. That trapeze option is one of the most memorable parts of this trip for families and thrill-seekers alike.

There’s also a note on how the stop can vary. Wind and sea conditions can affect how long you spend in the water, so don’t plan your whole mood around a long swim every time. Still, the overall experience is built around the swim, so you’re not just peeking at the ocean—you’re actually in it.

And yes, it’s okay if you’re not the type to jump in right away. The stairs are there for a reason, and you can also just enjoy the water time while others go big.

Paella, Drinks, and Canarian Schnapps on Board

Food and drinks are not an afterthought on this tour. You get drinks throughout the excursion, including red wine, beer, Fanta, cola, and water. There’s also Canarian schnapps included, which adds a local touch without turning the trip into a party by default.

Then there’s the meal. Paella with chicken and vegetables is included, but whether you get the full lunch depends on your selected option. If you choose the 3-hour option, you’ll also get a piece of fruit for dessert.

I like this setup because it matches how boat trips often work. You’re out on the water for a few hours, you spend time scanning and looking around, then you refuel before heading back. It’s especially good value when you compare it to paying separately for food and drinks in the harbor area.

One real-life note: if you’re sensitive to sound, you may notice the audio on the boat. Some people flag that the speaker volume can feel loud at times. It’s not a deal-breaker, but if you prefer quiet, bring it up with your own comfort plan—like choosing a seat a bit farther from the speakers.

The Crew Dynamic: Attentive, Entertaining, and Safety-First

The experience is guided by a live tour guide, and they run the trip in a way that feels organized and upbeat. You’ll hear explanations in the main languages offered, and the crew generally keeps things moving so you’re not stuck waiting around.

On top of the marine commentary, the crew also supports the “do stuff” moments like the swim access and trapeze use. People often comment on how attentive they are, and how they help if someone feels ill from motion. That matters because you’re on open water, and not everyone handles waves the same way.

There’s also a fun pirate-themed vibe on board. It’s not the main reason to book, but it helps the tone—especially if you’re traveling with kids. The result is a day that feels like a boat outing plus an activity, rather than a slow, quiet nature cruise.

Seasickness and the Reality of a Boat Day

If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t ignore it. This tour is a few hours on the water, and other passengers have noted that some people struggled with motion.

That doesn’t mean you should avoid it entirely. It just means you should pack your own comfort tools. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen, and consider staying toward the middle of the boat if you’ve found that helps you in the past. And if you know you get sick easily, plan ahead instead of hoping it won’t be an issue.

Also remember: the operator can’t guarantee dolphin or whale sightings. When the sea is rough, wildlife spotting can get harder, and that can also affect how the swim stop goes.

Price and Value: Is $38 a Good Deal?

At about $38 per person, this tour often feels like strong value because several big costs are wrapped into one ticket. You’re paying for:

• a boat ride with a live guide
• guided dolphin/whale watching when conditions allow
• time to swim in the Atlantic
• the trapeze option
• drinks throughout
• paella (with chicken and vegetables) with the longer option

If you’re comparing it to doing wildlife watching plus lunch plus drinks separately, the math tends to favor this format. Add in the cliff views of Masca and Los Gigantes, and it becomes more like a combined sightseeing-and-water-activity package than a single-purpose tour.

The one “value risk” is animal sightings. If you don’t see whales or dolphins, you still get the cliffs, swim, and food—but the wildlife angle won’t land as hard. I’d still call it worth it if you’re open to enjoying the overall sea day.

What to Bring (So You Actually Enjoy the Swim)

Come prepared for sun and water. The essentials are simple and listed clearly:

• sunglasses and sunscreen
• sun hat
• swimwear and a towel
• camera for cliffs and marine sightings
• beachwear
• cash

Cash is specifically mentioned, so have some on hand. (Even if tipping isn’t required, you’ll feel better having the option.)

Also, keep an eye on what’s not allowed: glass objects aren’t permitted, and drones are off the table. You’ll also want to avoid bringing sharp items or anything that could be considered a weapon.

Rules That Affect Your Comfort (And Who This Fits)

This tour is family-friendly in spirit, with that playful crew vibe, but it has firm safety rules. Don’t bring weapons or sharp objects. No oversized luggage. And don’t plan to smoke or vape on board.

Animal interaction is also off-limits: you can’t feed or touch marine life. That’s a good rule, and it keeps the wildlife experience respectful and safe.

One more practical point: unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed. If you’re bringing kids, make sure they’ll be paired with the right adult supervision.

Finally, keep in mind that the boat can get full. If you like maximum space, arrive early and be ready for a tighter feel during peak times.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This works best for you if you want:

• a few hours at sea with real activity (swim + trapeze), not just sightseeing
• a guided marine experience without needing deep scientific knowledge
• food and drinks included, so you’re not hunting meals after

It’s also a great pick for families, because the day is structured around fun moments and the crew keeps the energy up.

If you’re the type who needs a quiet, contemplative wildlife cruise, this might feel a bit louder and busier than you’d like. In that case, choose your timing and position on the boat, and focus on the cliffs and swim side of the day.

Should You Book Los Gigantes Dolphin and Whale Watching?

I’d book this if you’re flexible about animal sightings and you genuinely want a sea day with highlights: cliffs, a guided search, and a swim where you can actually use the stairs or the trapeze.

Skip it (or book with extra caution) if you get seasick easily or if seeing whales is a hard requirement for your trip. In rougher conditions, the wildlife part can shrink, and the swim stop can be shorter due to wind.

If you want value, this is one of the better ways to spend a few hours in Los Gigantes—because you’re not paying separately for food, drinks, and a swimming stop. You’re buying a package.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the Flipper Uno Los Gigantes tour?

Meet at the Flipper Uno office at the entrance of Los Gigantes Harbor on the right-hand side. The staff wear yellow uniforms.

What languages are the guides available in?

The live tour guide provides commentary in Spanish, English, French, and German.

How long is the tour?

The duration is 2 to 3 hours. Exact starting times vary, so you’ll need to check availability for what’s offered.

Are dolphins and whales guaranteed?

No. The sighting of dolphins and/or whales depends on sea conditions.

Is there time to swim?

Yes. The tour includes free time to swim, with entry via stairs or a trapeze.

Is paella included?

Paella with chicken and vegetables is included depending on the option you select. The 3-hour option includes dessert fruit.

What drinks are included during the tour?

Drinks included are red wine, beer, Fanta, cola, and water, plus Canarian schnapps.

Are toilets available on board?

Yes, there are toilets on board.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

No. Pickup and drop-off are not included.

What should I bring, and what is not allowed?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash. Not allowed includes weapons or sharp objects, oversize luggage, drones, smoking, vaping, fishing, glass objects, littering, feeding or touching marine life, and intoxication.