Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks

Tenerife: Marine-Life Tour with Transfer, Buffet and Drinks

If you’re looking for a way to combine wildlife spotting with a relaxing day on the water, this tour hits the spot. For about $67 per person, you get roughly three hours of sailing off the south coast of Tenerife, a chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment, and enjoy some delicious Spanish tapas along with drinks. The tour starts either with a hotel pickup or at a designated meeting point in Puerto Colon, with the boat itself being a cozy catamaran that accommodates around 20 to 24 travelers—much smaller and more intimate than the crowded mainstream excursions.

What we really like about this experience is the friendly, knowledgeable crew—reviews consistently praise the guides for their expertise and attentiveness. Plus, the small group size means you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and you get better chances to see wildlife and enjoy the snorkel stops. Another highlight is the superb selection of drinks and tapas—tap into some Spanish flavors with cava, wine, and a hearty buffet lunch.

One thing to consider is that wildlife sightings, though common, are not guaranteed—nature is unpredictable, after all. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, some reviews mention that the ocean can get choppy, so pack some motion sickness remedies if needed. This tour is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, appreciate small-group intimacy, and want a relaxed, well-organized experience with good food and drinks.

Key Points

Wildlife Opportunities: Chances to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, often with enthusiastic guides providing insight.
Small Group Comfort: Max of 24 people on the boat, making the experience more personal and less crowded.
Snorkeling & Swimming: Drop anchor in clear waters for a swim or snorkel, with provided equipment.
Excellent Value: For around $67, guests enjoy a three-hour cruise, a buffet, drinks, and wildlife viewing.
Flexible Options: Includes pickup from select hotels or meet at Puerto Colon, with free cancellation available.
Authentic Experience: Friendly crew and insightful guides, often highlighted in positive reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Tenerife Marine-Life Tour

Imagine stepping onto a sleek catamaran early in the morning, feeling the salt breeze, and heading out into the Atlantic to see some of the ocean’s most playful and majestic creatures. That’s exactly what this Tenerife marine-life tour offers—a combination of wildlife observation, relaxation, and good food that appeals to a range of travelers.

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Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

Start with Convenience:
You can opt for a hotel pickup in the south of Tenerife—including Los Cristianos, Las Americas, or Adeje—or simply meet at the docks in Puerto Colon. The pick-up service isn’t just a small convenience; it helps streamline your day, especially if you’re staying farther from the marina. The meeting point is easy to find: look for Dock #6, marked by a light grey catamaran with the name Monte Cristo. Parking is available nearby, which eases the stress of logistics.

Boarding and Departure:
Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat’s size—small enough to avoid the sardine-like feeling of larger tours but large enough to provide ample space for everyone. A crew of friendly, knowledgeable guides will welcome you, often receiving rave reviews for their professionalism and enthusiasm. “The hosts (Michelle) and the captain were great,” says one recent guest, highlighting how personable and attentive the staff are.

Wildlife Watching:
The main attraction is the chance to see dolphins and whales. Expect to cruise for about 3 hours along the coast, with the crew constantly on the lookout and eager to share the animals’ stories. Sightings are extremely common, but as with all wildlife, they aren’t guaranteed—nature always has the final say. But many guests have reported amazing encounters, like seeing pilot whales, dolphins, and even a whale family. One review enthusiastically described the experience as “magical” with dolphins swimming right up to the boat.

Snorkeling Break:
Midway through, the boat drops anchor at a nearby bay with crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming or snorkeling. You’ll be supplied with snorkeling gear, and the calm, transparent waters invite everyone to dip in and enjoy marine life close-up. Even if you’re a bit nervous initially, many reviews mention the thrill of jumping into the water and seeing the underwater world—though some noted that they didn’t see many fish, which is typical.

Lunch & Drinks:
Back on board, the fun continues with a buffet of Spanish tapas—think cured meats, cheeses, and other local specialties—paired with a selection of drinks including cava, wine, and bottled water. One reviewer called the food “delicious” and the drinks “great,” adding that it’s a really good value for what’s included. The unlimited drinks—especially the cava and wine—are a hit among guests wanting to toast their marine encounters.

Scenic Coastal Views:
As the cruise winds down, you’ll sail close to the coast, offering beautiful views of Tenerife’s mountains and beaches. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the island’s diverse scenery from the water.

Why Travelers Love It

Multiple reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—they know the marine environment inside out and keep everyone engaged and informed. Guests mention the small boat size as a major advantage, making the experience feel exclusive and relaxed. “It felt like a VIP experience,” one guest notes, emphasizing the intimacy and personal touch.

The food and drinks also regularly earn high marks, with several reviewers highlighting the variety and quality of tapas, along with unlimited cava, wine, and bottled water. This is not just a wildlife tour but also a laid-back social occasion.

Considering the Drawbacks

The one aspect to keep in mind is the uncertainty of wildlife sightings. While sightings are “extremely common,” they are not guaranteed, and some travelers might be disappointed if they don’t see dolphins or whales on their specific day. The ocean can also get choppy—especially in winter or on windy days—so if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking remedies beforehand.

Another consideration is the duration—at only three hours, this tour is perfect for a half-day outing, but if you’re craving a longer or more in-depth experience, you might want to look at other options. However, the balance of time, price, and activity level makes it an excellent choice for most.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys relaxed, small-group adventures with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and swimming, this tour is ideal. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a more intimate experience rather than a crowded boat ride.

Travelers who love good food and drinks while on the water will appreciate the buffet and unlimited beverages, making it feel more like a social event than just a tour. Plus, if you’re interested in learning about marine animals from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, this trip delivers.

However, if your main priority is guaranteed wildlife sightings or a more active, longer-day excursion, you might want to explore other options. But for value, comfort, and authenticity, this small-group Tenerife marine-life tour is tough to beat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you choose the pickup option, you’ll be collected from your hotel in south Tenerife or meet directly at the marina. Otherwise, you can meet at Dock #6 in Puerto Colon.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, and sunscreen. The ocean can be sunny and bright, so protection is wise.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, enabling you to enjoy the clear waters during the stop.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. Infants under 1 year old can join free of charge.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife marine-life tour offers a wonderful mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and relaxed socializing. The small-group setting enhances the experience by making it more personal and comfortable, while the knowledgeable guides add valuable insights into the marine ecosystem. The buffet and unlimited drinks turn what could be just a wildlife trip into a fun, laid-back feast on the water.

For travelers who want to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters, and indulge in Spanish-style tapas with drinks, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially well-suited for those who value authenticity over large crowds and are happy to accept the natural unpredictability of wildlife sightings.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day on the ocean, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable experience with excellent reviews backing it up. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to combine nature, comfort, and good company in beautiful Tenerife.