Tenerife is a treasure trove for boat lovers. Its crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and abundant marine life make it a prime spot for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re dreaming of spotting whales and dolphins, enjoying a sunset sail, or exploring remote beaches inaccessible by land, Tenerife has something to offer. Our list includes options ranging from budget-friendly whale watching trips to luxurious yacht experiences, perfect for different tastes and budgets. For instance, the Eco Yacht Whale Watching Tour at Sunset offers a relaxed, scenic trip with the chance to see dolphins and whales while enjoying a stunning sunset. Meanwhile, the Luxury Yacht Whale and Snorkeling Tour combines elegance with adventure, including gourmet tapas and snorkeling in pristine waters.
While each tour offers unique highlights, they all share a common thread: their ability to connect you with Tenerife’s spectacular marine environment. With so many options, you’ll find a boat cruise that fits your style—be it a quick wildlife sighting or a full-day exploration of hidden coves. Now, let’s dive into the specifics of each top pick.
1. Los Cristianos: Eco Yacht Whale Watching Tour at Sunset
At number 1, the Eco Yacht Whale Watching Tour at Sunset offers a 1.5-hour cruise that combines wildlife viewing with the beauty of Tenerife’s evening sky. This trip departs from Los Cristianos and features a relaxed, eco-friendly vessel called Travelin’ Lady. Passengers enjoy a chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, with a bonus of witnessing the breathtaking sunset over the Atlantic. The itinerary includes a stop for swimming and snorkeling, making it ideal for those who want a quick but memorable marine experience.
Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the memorable sunset views, with reviews highlighting the opportunity to see dolphins, whales, and even sea turtles. The modest price of $17 per person makes it accessible for travelers on a budget. It’s perfect for those who want a short, scenic trip that offers plenty of wildlife sightings and a peaceful sunset ambiance.
Bottom Line: Great for sunset lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an affordable, relaxing cruise with friendly guides and consistent wildlife sightings.
2. Tenerife: Whales and Snorkeling Tour on a Luxury Yacht
For around $91, the Whales and Snorkeling Tour on a Luxury Yacht delivers a three-hour adventure aboard a spacious, elegant vessel designed for comfort and style. This tour explores Tenerife’s southern coast, with scenic views of cliffs, harbors, and caves. It’s a small-group experience, allowing for a personal touch and in-depth marine education from the crew, who are passionate about marine life. The highlight is the chance to spot whales and dolphins in the wild, complemented by snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The onboard menu includes delicious tapas and unlimited drinks, making it a true luxury experience.
Guests rave about the attentive service and the chance to snorkel in remote bays filled with colorful fish. The trip is well-suited for travelers who enjoy both wildlife and leisurely cruising with gourmet food. The three-hour window balances adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent value for those who want more than a quick glance at marine life.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, intimate cruise with snorkeling, excellent food, and plenty of wildlife sightings.
3. Tenerife South: Parascending Experience with Boat Ride
If you’re looking to combine water sport thrills with breathtaking views, the Parascending Experience offers a 10-minute flight over Tenerife’s south coast for about $61. You’ll ascend up to 100 meters, soaring over the ocean and taking in views of Mount Teide and the coastline. The activity is suitable for most fitness levels and includes a safety briefing and all necessary equipment. It’s a fantastic way to see the island from above without the need for a full-day commitment.
Guests mention the friendly staff and the impressive scenery, even if wind conditions sometimes limit flight time. This tour appeals most to thrill-seekers and those wanting a quick, memorable aerial perspective of Tenerife’s landscapes.
Bottom Line: A short but spectacular adventure ideal for adrenaline junkies and sightseeing lovers alike.
4. Tenerife : Masca ravine: Descent & boat trip
At number 4, the Masca Ravine Descent & Boat Trip combines a scenic hike with a boat ride along Los Gigantes’ cliffs. This six-hour tour includes a guided hike through one of Tenerife’s most stunning ravines, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning about the area’s geology. After the hike, enjoy a boat trip along rugged coastlines, providing a relaxing way to unwind and absorb the scenery.
Guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary, which balances activity with leisure. The combined experience offers excellent value for long-day explorers and those wanting a deep dive into Tenerife’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a full day of trekking and boat exploration, with expert guides making the experience informative and enjoyable.
5. Tenerife: Discover Los Gigantes While Navigating a Boat
For up to $227 per group, the Discover Los Gigantes offers a flexible, private boating experience. With a capacity of up to five people, you can captain a boat yourself or have a skipper guide you to unreachable beaches and hidden coves. This experience caters to those wanting a personalized, hands-on adventure in the famous Los Gigantes area.
Guests praise the professionalism of Pedro, the guide, and the ability to explore secluded spots at your own pace. It’s perfect for small groups or families seeking an exclusive day on the water, with the added benefit of capturing your own photos in pristine locations.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups wanting a private, customizable cruise with the flexibility of self-driving the boat.
6. Masca Gorge Guided Hike + Boat Ride + Transport
This 6.5-hour Masca Gorge Guided Hike + Boat Ride tour is a favorite among active travelers. It combines a guided hike through the scenic Masca Gorge with a boat ride along Los Gigantes. The hike takes you through stunning landscapes, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about Tenerife’s geology and flora. Afterward, the boat cruise provides a relaxing perspective on the rugged coastline.
Guests appreciate the rich storytelling and the well-paced itinerary, which balances physical activity with downtime. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience of Tenerife’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for hikers and nature lovers wanting a full-day adventure with expert guidance.
7. Puerto Colon: Whale & Dolphins Sailing Excursion
At number 7, the Whale & Dolphins Sailing Excursion offers a 3-6 hour trip from Puerto Colon where you can see whales and dolphins in their natural environment. The friendly captain and crew share insights on local marine life, making this trip both educational and fun. The boat is comfortable, and the trip often includes a stop for swimming or snorkeling in a quiet bay.
Reviews highlight the excellent crew and the impressive animal sightings, with some mentioning the opportunity to ask questions about marine mammals. It’s suited for families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, informative experience.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, family-friendly cruise with great chances to see marine mammals and enjoy a peaceful day at sea.
8. Los Gigantes to Teno: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks
This 2.5-hour Los Gigantes to Teno trip is perfect for a quick escape. For only $51, you’ll cruise along Tenerife’s coast, stopping at Masca Beach for snorkeling and swimming. The trip includes a visit to Punta de Teno with sightseeing and photo stops, offering a blend of marine activity and scenic coastal views.
Guests rave about the friendly guides and the chance to swim in the clear waters, often calling it a highlight of their trip. It suits those with limited time who want a taste of Tenerife’s marine and coastal charm.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to snorkel and explore Tenerife’s stunning coastline.
9. Tenerife south: safari with luxury boat, animals encounters
The Luxury Safari Boat combines wildlife encounters with a luxury boat experience. For $51, in a three-hour trip, you can expect to see whales, swim in exclusive bays, and explore unspoiled parts of Tenerife. The trip emphasizes conservation and marine encounters, with a high success rate of whale sightings.
Guests note the friendly crew and the chance to experience Tenerife’s marine life in comfort. It’s great for travelers wanting a luxurious, wildlife-focused day with relaxed cruising and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Best for wildlife lovers seeking a small-group, upscale experience.
10. Tenerife: Whale Watching Boat Tour with a Marine Biologist
On a more educational note, the Whale Watching with Marine Biologist offers a 2.5-hour journey with expert commentary from a marine biologist. Departing from Las Galletas, this small-group tour uses a hydrophone to listen to whales and provides detailed insights into cetaceans and their habitat.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to learn from an expert, making this perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of marine life while still enjoying wildlife sightings. The limited capacity (max 10 passengers) ensures an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for science-minded travelers who want an educational edge to their whale-watching trip.
11. From San Juan Beach: Marine Life Cruise
This 3-hour Marine Life Cruise departs from San Juan Beach, focusing on the diversity of whales and dolphins around Tenerife. With a friendly captain and a small group, you’ll go in search of marine mammals and enjoy the sea life from onboard using snorkeling masks provided onboard.
Reviews mention the enthusiasm of the guide and the abundance of dolphins seen swimming close to the boat. It’s a good choice for families or those who want a relaxed trip with ample wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: Suitable for families and wildlife fans wanting a friendly, small-group cruise for marine animal encounters.
12. Rent a Boat with No License, Self Drive
For the adventurous who want independence, the Self-Drive Boat Rental allows you to captain your own boat for 1-2 hours at just $146 per group. No license required, just a quick briefing, and you’re free to explore the coves and beaches like Montaña Amarilla or Rasca lighthouse.
Guests rave about how easy and fun it is to navigate Tenerife’s waters on their own, with plenty of space to relax and discover secluded spots. This is perfect for confident boaters or groups seeking a personalized, flexible experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for experienced boaters or confident travelers wanting a DIY adventure on Tenerife’s waters.
13. Tenerife: Teide National Park and Dolphins Sailboat Tour
Combining land and sea, the Teide National Park and Dolphins Sailboat Tour offers a 7-hour trip that showcases Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes and marine wildlife. Starting with a scenic sail around the island, the tour then visits Teide to see the iconic volcano and surrounding vistas.
Reviewers mention the luxurious feel of the sailboat and the chance to see dolphins alongside stunning views of the park. This tour is suited for those wanting a comprehensive experience of Tenerife’s land and sea highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a full-day adventure with memorable landscapes and marine encounters.
14. Teno to Masca: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks
This 2-hour trip from Punta de Teno to Masca offers a quick, refreshing cruise with snorkeling and scenic stops. For just $40, you’ll cruise past cliffs, enjoy a swim at Masca Beach, and sip on a cold drink onboard. The trip is praised for Nico’s humor and the clear waters teeming with marine life.
It’s an excellent option if you’re short on time but want to combine coastal scenery with marine activity, making it a practical and enjoyable choice.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, fun, and scenic cruise with snorkeling in Tenerife’s beautiful waters.
15. Private excursions for cruise-ship passengers
Finally, the Private Excursions for Cruise-Ship Passengers provide a customizable, exclusive experience tailor-made to your interests. For six hours, explore Mount Teide at your own pace with a private driver-guide, ensuring you see the most spectacular spots without the rush.
Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and personal attention, making this ideal for travelers seeking a private, curated experience. It’s best suited for those wanting a tailored day with expert guidance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible, and exclusive day exploring Tenerife’s highlights.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Tenerife
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For wildlife lovers, options like the Eco Yacht Whale Watching or Whale & Dolphins Sailing Excursion are great for sightings. If you want a more luxurious experience with snorkeling and gourmet food, the Luxury Yacht Whale and Snorkeling Tour fits the bill.
For active travelers, the Masca Gorge Guided Hike + Boat Ride combines hiking and boating, while those seeking personalized adventures might prefer the Private Boat Experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to ensure availability, and always check the weather forecast as boat trips are weather-dependent.
Tenerife’s variety of boat tours means there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re after wildlife encounters, scenic flights, or private adventures. Exploring by sea offers a unique perspective on the island’s dramatic landscapes and vibrant marine life. Whether you choose a quick sunset cruise or a full-day yacht trip, planning ahead will help you make the most of Tenerife’s maritime magic.