Experience Tenerife’s Marine Majesty on a Small-Group Sailing Yacht Excursion
Looking for a relaxed way to enjoy Tenerife’s stunning south coast? This 3-hour sailing yacht tour offers a chance to spot playful dolphins and majestic whales, all while enjoying a delicious onboard buffet and drinks. Led by a friendly, experienced crew, you’ll cruise in an intimate setting with a maximum of 11 travelers, making it perfect for those seeking a personal touch and authentic marine encounters.
What we love about this experience is its balance of relaxed sailing in beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to jump into the clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, the included food and drinks mean you can focus on the fun without worrying about packing a picnic or bringing your own beverages.
One thing to keep in mind is that, based on some reviews, the boat isn’t exactly a luxury yacht but rather a comfortable sailing vessel — but that’s part of the charm for those wanting a genuine seafaring feel. This tour suits travelers who love marine wildlife, enjoy casual, small-group outings, and appreciate good value with included refreshments.
Key Points
- Small-group environment ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
- Wildlife spotting including dolphins and whales, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
- Inclusive lunch and drinks provide convenience and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Water activities like swimming and snorkeling gear included, with stops in clear, calm waters.
- Expert crew guides you safely and shares local insights about marine life and Tenerife.
- Flexible cancellation policy gives peace of mind with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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A Closer Look at the Tenerife Sailing Yacht Excursion
Setting Out from Costa Adeje
You’ll meet your crew at Bar Restaurante Club Náutico Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, a lively hub close to public transportation. The meeting point’s proximity to other attractions makes it easy to incorporate into your day. The boat departs with a maximum of 11 travelers, which guarantees a cozy, less crowded outing — ideal for those who dislike large tourist groups.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The voyage begins along the southern coast of Tenerife, where the crew, often referred to by guests like “Javier” or “Luis,” guides you to areas rich with marine activity. The main highlight? Wildlife watching, particularly for dolphins and whales, which are known to swim freely in the waters around the island. Several guests have noted the quality of this observation: “We discovered an amazing world of whales and dolphins swimming in their natural habitat,” one reviewer shared.
Throughout the trip, there are multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll enjoy easy access to the water with provided gear, in areas noted for their crystal-clear quality. Guests often mention how relaxing it is to float alongside the marine life, with snacks and drinks usually available to keep you energized and hydrated.
Lunch onboard is a generous buffet featuring a variety of options, and drinks are included. You might find the offerings simple but satisfying — some reviews mention the food as “good” or “generous,” with cava, beer, and soft drinks readily available. One visitor noted, “They gave cava, beer, and sandwiches,” emphasizing the casual, friendly vibe of the trip.
Wildlife Watching: The Main Attraction
Most travelers book this tour specifically to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment. The waters south of Tenerife are known for these magnificent creatures, and many guests have expressed delight at witnessing pods of dolphins leaping and whales breaching. It’s a highlight that makes the price tag of around $69 per person seem like a good deal.
The guides are knowledgeable and will share insights about the marine life, which enhances the experience. Some reviews refer to “friendly guides” who make wildlife spotting more engaging, with one even mentioning that “we saw dolphins the day before we left.”
Drawn to sailing? We've examined these other wind-powered adventures in Tenerife
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- Whale and Dolphin Watching Yacht Trip in Puerto Colon
- Whale watching and listening Eco-Catamaran Tour with Food Tasting
- Private Catamaran Charter with Transfer, Buffet and Snorkeling
Water Activities and Comfort
The boat is described as comfortable and safe, with life vests provided. While it’s not a luxury yacht, the vessel offers an authentic sailing experience with enough space for everyone to relax. The option to jump into the water for a swim or snorkel is a major plus — although water gear is included, be prepared for a casual, fun adventure rather than a high-end cruise.
Guests often appreciate the chance to cool off in the Atlantic’s inviting waves. One reviewer mentioned, “We had plenty of stops to enjoy safe swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear water,” highlighting the value of these stops.
What the Reviews Say: Authentic Feedback
The majority of reviews are positive, praising the knowledgeable crew, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. One guest remarked, “Walvissen en dolfijnen kijken op een zeilbootje maar je gaat niet zeilen,” which translates to “Watching whales and dolphins on a sailboat, but you do not actually sail,” clarifying that the vessel is more of a cruise than a sailing adventure.
However, some guests expressed disappointment about the boat’s description — one reviewer pointed out it wasn’t a yacht but a sailboat, and the mention of it being a yacht might be misleading. Another critic noted the food and drinks were sparse or not as luxurious as expected, but still adequate for a casual, wildlife-focused tour.
In terms of logistics, travelers recommend double-checking the meeting point (not at a restaurant, but the harbor) and preparing for a casual, laid-back atmosphere rather than a formal sailing experience.
Price and Value
At around $69.46 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the inclusion of lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and wildlife viewing. While some reviews mention the food isn’t gourmet, it’s sufficient for a casual cruise. The small-group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personal interaction and better wildlife observation.
Compared to other marine excursions around Tenerife, this trip strikes a good balance between affordability and a genuine, wildlife-focused experience. The fact that it’s booked on average 6 days in advance shows it’s popular among travelers wanting a reliable, well-reviewed outing.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers and those wanting a relaxed day at sea. It suits travelers who enjoy small, intimate groups, and are comfortable with casual atmospheres. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers looking to connect with nature will find this tour a memorable highlight.
It’s also well-suited for those who want a mix of wildlife spotting, water activities, and good food, all in a time-efficient three-hour window. If you’re expecting a luxury yacht with high-end amenities, you might be disappointed — but if you want an authentic, friendly, and wildlife-rich boat trip, this fits the bill.
FAQs
Is this a sailing yacht or a motorboat?
The tour features a sailing vessel, but it’s not a luxury yacht. It’s a comfortable sailboat designed for small groups, offering a genuine sailing experience without the high-end gloss.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, drinks (cava, beer, soft drinks), and the services of an experienced crew.
How many people are on the boat?
The maximum is 11 travelers, ensuring a cozy atmosphere and better chances to see marine wildlife.
Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes stops for swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear waters. Gear is provided, and the experience is described as safe and enjoyable.
Where do I meet the tour?
You’ll gather at Bar Restaurante Club Náutico Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje. It’s close to public transportation and easy to find.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is this suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is designed to be family-friendly. Just be mindful of water activities if traveling with young children.
Final Thoughts
For anyone eager to see Tenerife’s marine wildlife up close in a relaxed, small-group setting, this sailing yacht excursion hits the mark. It offers a good mix of wildlife viewing, water fun, and local hospitality without a hefty price tag. While it’s not a luxury cruise, it delivers authenticity, fun, and memorable moments with dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, casual water lovers, and those seeking a laid-back day at sea, this trip provides genuine value. Just remember to check the meeting point carefully, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a delightful oceanic adventure that’s more about authentic fun than high-end luxury.
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