Whale watching with children: which trip?

By the SantiagoDelTeide.com editorial team Updated: 2026-08-09 How we make this guide
Los Gigantes coast and cliffs

With children, logistics matter more than sales promises. A suitable trip combines manageable duration, shade, correct lifejackets, a toilet and safe space. Confirm everything with the operator before paying.

Quick comparison

Young children: short trip and spacious boat

Two hours and a catamaran or stable boat are often easier. Ask about minimum age, side barriers, shade, toilet and buggy storage; do not assume any facility.

Older children: more choices

If they cope well at sea, a three-hour trip adds coastline and a possible swim. Explain that animals may take time to appear and they must remain seated when instructed.

Swimming: an extra, not an obligation

The swim may be cancelled for safety. Confirm depth, water access, lifejackets and whether a child may remain aboard with an adult. It should never be the sole reason to book.

Decide in 30 seconds

1

First trip or very young?

Prioritise two hours, space, shade and a toilet.

2

Prone to motion sickness?

Seek medical advice where appropriate, choose a spacious vessel and carry spare clothes.

3

Want to swim?

Check the conditions and keep a worthwhile plan if swimming is cancelled.

Before booking

  • Confirm that the trip really leaves from Los Gigantes; some commercial results depart from other ports in Tenerife.
  • Check the actual duration, maximum group size, minimum age, shade, toilet, food and included equipment.
  • Read the bad-weather policy and whether the swimming stop or planned route may change for safety reasons.
  • Sightings are never guaranteed: these are wild animals and authorised operators must respect approach distances and observation times.

Carry water, sunscreen, a secure hat, a light layer and spare clothes. The crew decides where to sit and when to move; those instructions are part of onboard safety.

GetYourGuide

Compare available trips

Check current schedules, duration, vessel type and conditions before choosing. The link opens activities in Los Gigantes and preserves the portal attribution.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age?

It varies by operator and vessel. Confirm it in writing before booking.

Which boat is most comfortable with children?

A spacious boat with shade, toilet and protected areas usually helps, but check the exact vessel.

Can children swim?

Only if allowed by the operator, conditions are suitable and proper lifejackets and supervision exist.

What if no cetaceans appear?

There is no guarantee because they are wild animals. Check whether the operator offers a voluntary repeat policy.