Los Gigantes Marinas Canary Islands, Tenerife
Puerto Los Gigantes is a privately run marina on the southwest coast of Tenerife. The marina takes its name from the giant cliffs, Los Gigantes, which rise hundreds of feet above the sea and are home to the many sea birds including sea eagles. The port was created for the residents and most of the berths are owned privately but about 20 percent are reserved for short term visitors though in practise there is often little room for the visiting yacht especially in the busy autumn period.
The new residential and expanding tourist town has most facilities though work is still ongoing in both the marina and the resort, but it is becoming known as one of the best marinas in the canaries. Work is starting on a new mole and an extension to the existing breakwater which is hoped will alleviate the problem of silting at the entrance and a surge entering the harbour that enters after rebounding off the cliffs.
Road communication is good and well maintained. Buses are frequent and connect Reina Sofia airport, Santa Cruz and the rest of the island in an anticlockwise direction. Car hire is available in the town or from the airport.
Plenty of bars and restaurants can be found with many being close to the marina, the rest are up a steep climb into the village. The club nautico makes visiting yachtsmen welcome.
Fresh, frozen and canned provisions are readily available from the many supermarkets and local shops. As with the other islands, here is a great opportunity to replenish bonded goods because of the generous tax laws. The same tax laws also means that refuelling is a lot cheaper than in many Northern European countries. Medical services can be found here with the main hospital being in the capital Santa Cruz. There are several banks that have cash dispensing machines, and also a post office. Yacht charter can be arrange fom the marina.
The Approach
The town is easily identifiable as it rises steeply above the marina which is situated at the southern end of the spectacular giant cliffs of Los Gigantes. The harbour entrance is a "dogleg" at the northern end of the breakwater and the entrance is tight especially for larger vessels. There is a speed limit of 2 knots on approach and within the harbour. Call the marina office on VHF9 while still offshore to check on conditions at the entrance.
The approach to the entrance is dangerous especially for the first time visitor in anything but perfect conditions. This is particularly true in strong southerly winds, or when a ground swell is running from the north, northwest or west. These conditions can produce breaking waves on approach which are difficult to see. (Especially first thing in the morning when a shadow is thrown by the cliffs across the entrance). Keep a careful eye on the echo sounder, and if in any doubt do not attempt to enter. The entrance is liable to silting and at low water the depth can be as little as 2m. The entrance is occasionally dredged
The Entrance
Once inside there is still the chance of problems from surge and the tight room to manoeuvre. The reception berth is on the spur of the eastern quay close to the fuel dock. The harbour is mainly for the use of residents but about 20% of berths are kept free for visitors, though it is advisable to call ahead of arriving. Keep a close eye out for the large tourist boats leaving and entering the marina on whale and dolphin watching trips.
The island has many yacht charter companies and chartering a boat is a popular holiday.
Formalities
Ships papers and crew passports should be presented at the marina office. Office hours are 0800 - 2100 daily. If Los Gigantes is the final port for departure from Spain details of your intended passage and next port of call may be asked for.
Telephone 922 868 002. Email igmoffice@losgigantesmarina.com for berth prices.
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