Setting Sail from Los Gigantes

As I stood at the Los Gigantes Cliffs marina, the salty breeze gently tousling my hair, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. The towering cliffs, ancient and majestic, loomed over the marina, casting long shadows that danced upon the water. It was a scene that seemed to have been plucked from the pages of a romantic novel, and I was eager to embark on this leisurely sail along the coast of Tenerife.

The day had not begun without its hiccups. A mix-up with the booking had initially left me feeling a tad disheartened, but the crew’s warm hospitality quickly turned things around. They suggested a stroll through the charming village of Los Gigantes and a dip in the oceanic pool while we waited for our rescheduled afternoon slot. It was a delightful detour, allowing me to soak in the local culture and the vibrant energy of the village.

Finally, as the sun began its slow descent, casting a golden hue over the cliffs, we set sail. The boat, intimate and cozy, carried a small group of nine, a welcome contrast to the bustling tourist boats we passed by. It was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where every moment could be savored without the rush of a crowded itinerary.

A Dance with Dolphins and Whales

The gentle rocking of the boat was soothing, and as we sailed further from the coast, the vastness of the ocean enveloped us. Our guide, a knowledgeable and passionate sailor, regaled us with tales of the marine life that thrived in these waters. His stories painted vivid pictures of the cetaceans that called this part of the Atlantic home.

It wasn’t long before we were graced with the presence of dolphins, their sleek bodies slicing through the water with playful grace. The sight was mesmerizing, a dance of nature that left us all in silent awe. And then, as if on cue, a pod of whales appeared in the distance, their majestic forms rising and falling with the rhythm of the sea. It was a moment that transcended words, a reminder of the wonders that lie beneath the ocean’s surface.

As we continued our journey, the island of La Gomera came into view, its rugged beauty a stark contrast to the serene waters. The silhouette of the Teide volcano loomed in the background, a silent guardian watching over the island. It was a view that captured the essence of Tenerife, a place where nature’s grandeur was on full display.

A Feast for the Senses

After our exhilarating encounter with the cetaceans, we anchored near the Acantilados de Los Gigantes. The cliffs, with their rugged beauty, stood as silent sentinels, their presence both imposing and comforting. Here, we were invited to take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, a moment of pure bliss that washed away the remnants of the day’s heat.

Back on the boat, the crew had prepared a delightful spread of snacks and drinks. As I savored the flavors, the gentle sway of the boat and the sound of the waves created a symphony that lulled me into a state of contentment. It was a feast for the senses, a perfect ending to a day filled with wonder and discovery.

As we made our way back to the marina, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. It was a fitting farewell to a day that had been nothing short of magical. This sail along the Los Gigantes Cliffs had been a journey of discovery, a reminder of the beauty that lies in the slow, unhurried moments of travel. For those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle, I wholeheartedly recommend this sailing adventure.