Whale watching and snorkelling in the whale sanctuary

Whale Watching and Snorkelling in the Whale Sanctuary: An Authentic Tenerife Marine Adventure

Imagine setting out from the coast of Tenerife on a three-hour marine safari that promises encounters with dolphins, pilot whales, and other cetaceans. For just around $75 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of wildlife observation, snorkeling, and educational insights—delivered by a knowledgeable captain. The meeting point at Playa San Juan is convenient, and the tour operates in the protected Whale Sanctuary, making it a compelling choice for lovers of marine life and authentic experiences.

One of the highlights we love is the small group size—max 11 travelers—which ensures a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere. The captain’s detailed explanations about meteorology, volcanology, and local history add an educational layer that enriches the journey. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and drinks makes it more than just a wildlife tour; it feels like a mini coastal adventure with tasty local touches.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency, as with all outdoor marine activities. Poor weather could lead to cancellations, but the tour’s flexible cancellation policy offers a full refund if plans change. This experience suits nature enthusiasts, families, or anyone curious about marine ecology who appreciates a blend of adventure, education, and local flavor.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot dolphins, pilot whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
• Educational Insights: The captain offers detailed explanations on cetaceans, volcanology, and local history.
• Snorkeling Opportunity: Enjoy swimming in the protected waters at Agua Dulce, with the chance to see marine creatures up close.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 11 travelers, expect a more intimate and engaging experience.
• Tasty Local Food: The tour includes sandwiches, drinks, and the chance to enjoy a relaxed meal on board.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund possible if canceled 24 hours prior due to weather or other reasons.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Out from Playa San Juan

The tour begins in the afternoon at 2:30 pm from Playa San Juan, a charming fishing village that offers a peaceful departure point. You’ll board a comfortable boat operated by SEA PASSION CHARTER, a company with a reputation for quality marine excursions. The boat size is limited to 11 travelers, which means you’ll enjoy a cozy, less crowded experience—far from the large, impersonal cruise ships.

The Route and Marine Encounters

We loved the way the itinerary takes us about 5 km south of La Gomera, where the water reaches a depth of around a kilometer. This is prime territory for spotting resident pilot whales and dolphins. The captain actively searches between different depths, increasing the chances of sightings. As one reviewer noted, “We saw Grindwale and dolphins and observed them with respectful distance,” emphasizing the importance of responsible wildlife viewing.

The tour continues along the cliffs of Isorana, where the boat skirts the rugged coastline, providing breathtaking views of volcanic cliffs and scenic coves. Expect to see the cove of Agua Dulce, a beautiful spot where snorkeling is offered. Here, you can swim amongst marine life, enjoy the clear waters, and relax with sandwiches and local drinks—just as one happy traveler described it, “a perfect spot for a swim and snorkel, with Captain explaining volcanology and science.”

Snorkeling at Agua Dulce

The snorkeling stop is a highlight for many. The waters are typically calm, and the area is known for its interesting geology and marine biodiversity. The captain’s explanations during this time deepen your understanding of the volcanic origins of the island and how they shape the marine environment. Expect to see a variety of fish and possibly even sea turtles or rays, depending on the day’s conditions.

Education and Local Insights

The captain’s role extends beyond just spotting whales. From meteorology to local history, the onboard commentary makes this tour educational as well as entertaining. We appreciated the way the captain clearly explained what was happening around us—adding context that turns a wildlife trip into a mini-seminar, making it especially valuable for curious travelers.

The Return Along the Coastline

After snorkeling, the boat heads back towards Playa San Juan, passing by the fishing port and scenic coastal scenery. This segment offers a relaxing end to the trip, allowing you to process the sights and sounds while enjoying a drink or snack.

Why This Tour Outshines the Competition

This tour stands out because of its personalized approach and focus on quality wildlife viewing. Unlike larger group excursions, the small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another passenger. The captain’s detailed commentary and respectful approach to wildlife viewing set it apart from more commercialized options.

The lunch and drinks included are simple but tasty, emphasizing local flavors and providing good value for the price. As one reviewer beautifully put it, “the boat is super comfortable, and the food was excellent,” making the entire experience feel more complete.

Price and Value

At roughly $75.17, the tour offers good value considering the mix of wildlife, snorkeling, education, and a relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of food and drinks adds to the convenience, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own snacks. The small group size also means you’re more likely to get personalized attention and insider tips.

Booking and Cancellation

The flexible cancellation policy is helpful if weather turns poor—a common concern in outdoor activities. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving peace of mind when planning around weather forecasts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and families who want an authentic, respectful wildlife encounter. It suits those who appreciate learning about marine life and geology while enjoying the outdoors. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a small, friendly group over large boat tours. If you’re curious about local history or volcanology, the captain’s explanations will add an extra layer of interest.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience.

What time does it start?
The departure is at 2:30 pm from Playa San Juan.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling is a key part of the experience, with a stop at Agua Dulce where you can swim and explore marine life.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guide, alcoholic beverages, and lunch, making it good value for a multi-faceted trip.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check specifics with the provider.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
You might see dolphins, pilot whales, and possibly other cetaceans. The emphasis is on respectful observation.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Can service animals join?
Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a meaningful, intimate experience that combines wildlife spotting with a dash of local science and cuisine, this tour hits the mark. The small group setting, knowledgeable captain, and focus on respectful observation make it stand out. The combination of marine encounters, snorkeling, and educational commentary delivers more than just a typical boat ride—it’s a window into the vibrant marine world surrounding Tenerife.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who enjoy learning, families seeking a fun and educational outing, or anyone who values responsible wildlife viewing and local insights. The added bonus of lunch and drinks means you’ll come away not just with photos and memories but with a fuller appreciation of Tenerife’s natural beauty.

Overall, it’s an experience that balances value, authenticity, and fun, giving you a real taste of the island’s marine richness. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this trip offers a meaningful peek into Tenerife’s captivating waters—an adventure worth every penny.