A 6-Hour Private Yacht Adventure in Tenerife: Whales, Dolphins, and Coastal Beauty
Imagine cruising along Tenerife’s southwest coast on a sleek 33-foot private yacht, with the sun warming your face and the sea breeze tousling your hair. For around $587 per group, up to nine people, you get to spend roughly six hours exploring the waters, spotting whales and dolphins, and enjoying the island’s stunning coastal scenery. This tour offers a personalized experience that combines wildlife encounters, scenic views, and refreshing sea dips—all with a friendly crew making you feel like a guest rather than just another passenger.
What we really love about this experience is how close you get to wildlife in their natural environment — seeing dolphins frolicking and whales swimming slowly past the boat can be truly magical. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel with provided equipment and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks makes this a relaxing, fun, and satisfying outing. That said, a potential consideration is the weather — since this is a sea-based activity, poor conditions could mean rescheduling or cancellations.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate, and authentic sea adventure. Families, groups of friends, or even couples looking for a special day on the water will find it a perfect choice. If you’re seeking a leisurely pace with the option to see marine life up close, this private yacht trip checks all the boxes.
Key Points
- Customizable Private Experience: With only your group on board, the tour feels exclusive and relaxed.
- Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins and whales, often close enough to truly appreciate their beauty.
- Scenic Coastal Views: From the Los Gigantes cliffs to Masca Bay, the scenery is breathtaking.
- Snorkeling and Swimming: Use the provided equipment to discover underwater life in calm, clear waters.
- All-Inclusive Snacks & Drinks: Enjoy unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks during your sail.
- Flexible Duration and Cancellation: Options for 3 or 6 hours; free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Discovering Tenerife from the Water: An In-Depth Review
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Setting the Scene: An Intimate Coastal Voyage
Starting from Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje, this private yacht tour provides a relaxed yet adventure-filled way to experience Tenerife. The initial greeting is friendly, and the captain, such as Maxi, makes you feel at home from the moment you step aboard. For a total cost of about $586, your group of up to 9 people gets a personalized voyage, which means no crowded decks or noisy groups—just your friends or family soaking in the views and wildlife.
The boat itself isn’t overly large, but perfectly suited for a small group, giving you plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the journey. The captain offers a glass of cava as a warm welcome, setting a festive but laid-back tone. You’ll leave the port in the morning, which is ideal for catching the best wildlife activity and avoiding the midday heat.
The Itinerary: From Dolphins to Cliffs
The tour’s core focus is wildlife and scenery. Once at sea, the team uses sonar equipment to listen for whales and dolphins, enhancing the chances of sightings. Many reviewers, like Michael, praise the crew’s dedication: “Maxi made us feel very welcome and was a great host,” and “We saw pilot whales and dolphins in close proximity.”
The highlight is undoubtedly the wildlife, with dolphins often frolicking near the boat—sometimes just a few meters away. You might also see whales slowly swimming past, adding a touch of awe to your day. The tour then heads to Masca Bay, famous for the imposing Los Gigantes cliffs, a dramatic backdrop for photos and relaxation. Here, you can snorkel, swim, or simply enjoy the scenery during a stop for lunch and leisure.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The snorkeling portion is especially appreciated. The provided equipment lets you explore the underwater world at Puertito Beach or other calm spots, where you might catch glimpses of colorful fish or sea turtles. One reviewer shared, “We enjoyed snorkeling in Puertito beach, which was a highlight.” The opportunity to cool off with a swim or enjoy a glass of wine while the boat gently rocks is a big plus.
The all-day inclusive offering of snacks, bottled water, and unlimited beer or wine creates a carefree atmosphere. No need to worry about finding a place to eat or drink; just relax and enjoy the trip.
Considerations and Practical Tips
While the experience earns high marks for its intimacy and wildlife sightings, weather can affect the day’s plans. Poor sea conditions might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so booking with a flexible cancellation policy is wise. The tour requires a minimum of two participants, and travelers should be aware that the minimum drinking age is 18.
If you’re sensitive to sea sickness, it’s worth noting that the boat isn’t particularly large, and the Atlantic can be unpredictable. Bringing seasickness remedies just in case is a good idea. Lastly, if you are a vegetarian or have special dietary needs, be sure to request that in advance, as options are available.
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Authentic Experiences and How It Feels
The reviews consistently highlight the personalized, friendly atmosphere. Rainer mentioned the “unpretentious environment” and the chance to see wildlife at close range. Michael appreciated the “secluded swimming area,” which adds to the feeling of privacy and special access.
You’ll love the views of Tenerife from the water—craggy cliffs, hidden bays, and lush coastlines create a constantly changing tableau. The calm, warm waters make snorkeling enjoyable, and the likelihood of seeing dolphins or whales makes the journey genuinely memorable.
How Does the Price Stack Up?
At roughly $586 for a group of nine, this tour offers excellent value considering the personalized nature, wildlife encounters, and all-inclusive amenities. Private yacht charters are often costly, but this experience balances exclusivity with affordability, especially for groups or families who want a unique day without sharing the boat with strangers.
Who Is It Best For?
This tour is perfect for travelers who value small-group intimacy, wildlife viewing, and flexibility. Families with kids (who are old enough to snorkel) will appreciate the gentle pace and engaging wildlife. Couples seeking a romantic adventure or friends celebrating a special occasion will find it a memorable way to spend a day on the water.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
You get bottled water, snacks, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, plus the use of snorkeling equipment. The crew also uses sonar to listen for whales and dolphins, enhancing your chances of sightings.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, which includes wildlife watching, coastal scenery stops, snorkeling, and leisure time.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Puerto Colon, pantalan 2, Costa Adeje, Tenerife. The meeting point is easily accessible via public transportation.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance aren’t refundable.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be comfortable on the water and able to snorkel if they wish to join in that activity. Check with the operator if you have specific concerns.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, seasickness remedies if needed, and a towel. Snorkeling gear is provided, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested at the time of booking.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Final Thoughts
This private yacht tour around Tenerife offers an engaging blend of wildlife viewing, scenic coastlines, and relaxing swimming opportunities. Its personalized approach makes it stand out against larger, more generic boat trips, giving you a real sense of being in nature’s midst. The crew’s attentiveness and the all-inclusive snacks and drinks add to the sense of a special day out.
If you’re someone who loves the idea of seeing dolphins dance and whales glide past your boat, all while enjoying Tenerife’s stunning cliffs and bays from a comfortable vessel, this experience is well worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those who want a flexible, intimate, and memorable adventure on the sea, with plenty of chances for photos and relaxing moments.
This trip isn’t just about cruising; it’s about connecting with the marine environment and the timeless beauty of Tenerife’s coast. For travelers craving an authentic, wildlife-rich sea journey, this private yacht experience delivers on those promises.
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More Tenerife experiences we've covered
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- Private 8 hours Tour to El Teide from Tenerife Hotel with driver/guide
- Puerto Colón: Tenerife Coast Jet Ski Tour with Photos
- 4-Day Private Kitesurfing Lessons for Beginners in Tenerife
- Exclusive Tenerife Highlights Shore Tour for Cruise Passengers
- Tenerife: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Transfer, Buff & Drinks
- Tenerife Airport Transfer from South Airport (Reina Sofia) to North Area Hotels
- Tenerife: Private Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise
- Tenerife: Surf Lesson at Playa de Las Americas
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