Adeje Classic Schooner: Whales, Lunch & Los Gigantes Cliffs

Traveling to Tenerife offers a wealth of options for marine life lovers and scenic explorers alike, but few experiences capture the island’s beauty quite like a traditional schooner cruise. This 5-hour adventure, operated by Neptuno Whale Experience Tenerife, promises a relaxed day on the water with whale and dolphin sightings, a tasty onboard lunch, and stunning views of Los Gigantes’ towering cliffs.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment is truly special. Second, the sail aboard a beautifully crafted Arabian-style wooden schooner offers a different vibe compared to typical boat tours. Lastly, the combination of refreshing swimming stops in Masca Bay and a delicious meal with drinks makes for a well-rounded day out.

One possible consideration is the weather and sea conditions, which can influence the swimming stop and marine sightings. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere, love marine wildlife, and enjoy good food and drinks with friends or family.

If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic sea adventure with a friendly crew, this tour could be a perfect match. It’s especially good for families, couples, and anyone keen on experiencing Tenerife’s marine wonders in a relaxed setting.

Good To Know

• Whale and dolphin sightings are very likely, thanks to Tenerife’s year-round marine activity.
• The traditional schooner offers a unique, charming sailing experience.
• Swimming in Masca Bay beneath the cliffs provides a refreshing break and stunning scenery.
• The menu includes a hearty onboard lunch with drinks, beer, and wine.
• The crew is praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and fun atmosphere.
• Optional hotel pickup adds convenience, especially for those staying in the area.
• The tour balances relaxation and adventure, making it suitable for all ages.
• Sea conditions can impact swimming and marine sightings; flexibility is advisable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic 5-Hour Marine Adventure in Tenerife

The Adeje Classic Schooner cruise is designed to give you a genuine taste of Tenerife’s lively ocean life paired with unbeatable views of the island’s dramatic coastline. Departing from Costa Adeje’s Puerto Colón, the journey begins with a scenic 2.5-hour bus ride, setting the stage for a day filled with marine encounters, stunning vistas, and relaxed fun.

Setting Sail on a Heritage Schooner

Once aboard the Shogun, a beautifully maintained Arabian-style wooden schooner, you’ll immediately notice its unique charm. Unlike typical tour boats, this vessel’s traditional design adds a touch of romance and nostalgia. The crew, often speaking multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian, set a welcoming tone, sharing interesting facts about the local marine environment.

The sailing begins along Tenerife’s southwest coast, an area known for its calm waters and high likelihood of whale and dolphin sightings. Here, the crew’s experience shines through — they regularly spot resident pilot whales and playful dolphins, sometimes within minutes of setting sail. As Gary, one of the crew members, told reviewers, “We always keep a close eye on the water because sightings can happen at any moment.”

Marine Life Encounters

Expect to keep your camera ready. As several reviewers highlighted, dolphin sightings are frequent and memorable, with one guest describing the experience as “incredible.” While whales are not guaranteed, the waters around Tenerife are home to whales and dolphins year-round, and the crew is adept at locating them.

A noteworthy point from reviews: the crew’s respectful approach to marine life. They prioritize observing animals without disturbing their natural behavior. This makes the trip suitable for eco-conscious travelers as well as wildlife enthusiasts.

Stop at Masca Bay: Swim, Relax, and Enjoy the Views

The highlight for many is the swimming stop in Masca Bay, situated beneath the breathtaking cliffs of Los Gigantes. The bay’s clear, warm waters and dramatic backdrop make it a perfect spot for a quick dip. Life jackets and float aids are provided for all swimmers, including children, making it accessible for families.

However, some reviews note that the swimming stop depends on sea conditions, so if the waters are rough, the crew might advise skipping it for safety. Still, the opportunity to float in such a scenic setting is a treasured part of this experience.

While you’re in the water, you can also snorkel or simply relax on deck and soak in the views of the 600-meter-high cliffs of Los Gigantes, which some reviewers described as “absolutely awe-inspiring.” The cliffs are not just a stunning backdrop but a highlight that emphasizes the geological wonder of Tenerife’s coastline.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch with a View and Drinks

The onboard lunch is served during the sail back, and it’s more than just a quick snack. Expect a buffet-style meal featuring vegetarian rice, coleslaw, meatballs in tomato sauce, fresh bread, and a banana for dessert. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and value of the meal, calling it “delicious” and “filling.”

As for drinks, soft drinks and water are available throughout the trip. During lunch, you can indulge in wine and beer included in the price, adding a celebratory feel to your meal. Many guests appreciated the relaxed, party-like atmosphere fostered by the crew, who often take song requests and keep the mood lively.

The Return Sail and Overall Atmosphere

As the cruise winds down, the journey back to Puerto Colón is a gentle sail, giving everyone a chance to relax, chat, and perhaps spot more dolphins. Some guests mention the friendly, attentive crew — especially Andy, who was praised for going above and beyond, even helping guests arrange taxis after the trip.

The overall vibe is casual and convivial. Plenty of reviewers pointed out how the crew’s enthusiasm, music, and interactions made the trip feel like a day out with friends rather than a stiff tour.

Practical Details and Insights

Pricing and Value: At approximately $64 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the length, inclusions, and the chance to see marine life. The all-day experience, with lunch, drinks, and safety equipment included, makes it an accessible option for families and couples alike.

Duration and Schedule: The 5-hour window allows enough time for relaxing sails, a swimming stop, and a leisurely lunch without feeling rushed. The itinerary includes a 2.5-hour transfer, 2 hours of marine activity, and additional time at Masca Bay.

Group Size: Typically, these cruises host a moderate number of guests, which balances the lively atmosphere with personal space and comfort. The crew’s multilingual skills ensure everyone feels included.

Transport and Accessibility: Optional hotel pick-up is available, a big plus for convenience. Parking nearby is paid and limited, so arriving early or using the hotel transfer option can save hassle.

Weather Considerations: Bring a light jacket or layers, as it can be breezy even on warm days. The sea conditions influence the swimming stop, so flexibility is key.

What We Loved and What to Keep in Mind

The guides and crew are consistently praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach and for making everyone feel at ease, especially children. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and their respect for marine life is clear.

The scenery — from the cliffs of Los Gigantes to the open ocean — is truly spectacular. Many reviewers describe the views as “breathtaking,” especially during the sail back under a sunset sky.

The food and drinks are surprisingly good for a boat trip — hearty, tasty, and plentiful enough to satisfy all appetites. The inclusion of wine and beer during lunch creates a relaxed, social atmosphere.

The main drawback? The weather can be unpredictable, and sea conditions may limit swimming or sightings. Also, as with any wildlife tour, sightings of whales cannot be guaranteed, though dolphins are very common.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families with children, who will enjoy the swimming and onboard entertainment. Couples looking for a romantic yet fun day at sea will find the schooner’s charm and scenic views perfect. Plus, wildlife lovers eager to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat will not be disappointed.

If you enjoy relaxed, social days with good food, drinks, and beautiful scenery, this cruise checks all those boxes. It’s less about adrenaline and more about soaking in the ocean’s beauty and the mountain majesty of Los Gigantes.

FAQ

Will we definitely see whales or dolphins?
Sightings are highly probable as pilot whales and dolphins are present year-round, but since it’s nature, sightings can never be guaranteed.

Can children swim during the stop?
Yes. Life jackets and float aids are provided, and the crew keeps a close eye on safety. Swimming depends on sea conditions and safety advice.

Is the boat safe for families?
Absolutely. The Shogun is fully licensed, equipped with safety gear, and certified with the Blue Flag. Children of all ages are welcome.

What languages does the crew speak?
They speak English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Are drinks included?
Water and soft drinks are available throughout the cruise, with wine and beer served during the onboard lunch.

How long is the transfer?
The bus/coach ride takes about 2.5 hours each way, depending on your pickup location.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and layers are recommended. Small pets under 12 kg are allowed but must stay with their owner.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Final Thoughts

The Adeje Classic Schooner cruise offers a delightful blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and relaxed social fun. It’s a great way to spend half a day exploring Tenerife’s marine environment while enjoying excellent food and drinks in a charming setting. The friendly crew, combined with the chance for dolphin sightings and stunning cliff views, makes this a memorable experience for all ages.

Whether you’re a family seeking adventure, a couple looking for romance, or a nature lover eager to spot marine life, this trip has something for you. Just remember to bring your camera, some layers, and a sense of adventure—sea conditions and wildlife can be unpredictable, but that’s part of the charm.

In a nutshell, it’s a well-priced, authentic, and lively excursion that captures the spirit of Tenerife’s ocean and cliffs. It’s worth booking if you want a fun, scenic, and wildlife-packed day out on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: