A Private Yacht Adventure in Tenerife: Whale, Dolphin, and Snorkeling Cruise
Imagine gliding across the Atlantic aboard a sleek, luxurious yacht, the sun warming your back, and the sea offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular shows—whales breaching, dolphins spinning, and turtles gliding gracefully nearby. This private 42-foot yacht tour from Playa de las Américas costs around $706 for a group of up to 11 people and lasts approximately 3 hours. It’s a tailored experience, perfect for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply seeking a peaceful, wildlife-filled escape.
What makes this experience special? First, the private setting means you get undivided attention from your friendly skipper, often named Guy or Juan Angel in reviews, who are both praised for their local knowledge and relaxed demeanor. Second, the combination of wildlife watching, snorkeling, and onboard champagne and snacks offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.
A potential consideration? The experience depends heavily on weather conditions—if the sea turns rough or visibility drops, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Book with flexibility and keep an eye on the forecast.
This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, intimate outing with a focus on marine life and scenic views, and who appreciate a touch of luxury without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private boat for up to 11 people, ensuring a relaxed, exclusive atmosphere.
- Wildlife Watching: Regular sightings of pilot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, with sonar equipment to enhance the experience.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Drop anchor for swimming and explore underwater with provided gear.
- All-Inclusive Drinks & Snacks: Unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks onboard, with a glass of Champagne for toasting.
- Flexible Duration: Choose between a 3-hour or 6-hour cruise, in the morning or afternoon, tailored to your schedule.
- Authentic Local Guides: Knowledgeable skippers who prioritize wildlife and safety, making every trip educational and fun.
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Exploring the Details of a Tenerife Yacht Adventure
Starting Point and Accessibility
Your journey begins at Puerto Colon, where the marina’s pantan 2 serves as the launching pad. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, and most travelers find it straightforward to reach. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by your crew and the beautifully maintained 40-foot sailing yacht. With enough deck space for everyone, it feels more like a luxurious boat than a typical tour vessel.
What the Yacht Offers
The yacht’s interior includes a luxurious saloon cabin and kitchenette, but most of your time will be spent outside, soaking up the scenic views of Playa de las Américas, the cliffs, beaches, and mountainous backdrop of southern Tenerife. Several reviews mention that the boat is well-maintained and spacious enough for comfort—even when fully booked.
Wildlife Watching and the Marine Environment
The core appeal of this tour is undoubtedly the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and turtles. Pilot whales are present year-round, so sightings are common, which many reviews confirm—”we saw lots of whales, dolphins, and two turtles,” noted one happy traveler. The use of sonar equipment enhances the experience, letting you hear whale songs and dolphin clicks, adding an educational layer to your adventure.
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Snorkeling and Swimming
When the skipper drops anchor, you have the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic or snorkel with provided gear. Travelers rave about the close encounters with marine creatures like sea turtles and the clarity of the water. This part of the trip is often highlighted as a favorite, providing a refreshing break from sitting on deck and a chance to connect more intimately with the ocean.
Food, Drinks, and Onboard Comfort
Onboard, the all-you-can-drink bar includes wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water—a delight after a morning or afternoon of wildlife spotting. Plus, snacks and light refreshments keep hunger at bay. One review mentions that the food and beverages are of high quality, with baguettes and nibbles adding to the relaxed vibe. A glass of Champagne is also included, perfect for celebrating or just adding a touch of luxury.
The Itinerary and Variations
Travelers can select between a 3-hour or 6-hour cruise, depending on how much wildlife or underwater exploration they want. The shorter trip is suitable for those with limited time or younger children, while the longer option allows for more extensive snorkeling or multiple wildlife sightings.
Authenticity and Personal Touches
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach. The crew, especially guides like Maxi or Juan Angel, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. They help point out wildlife and make sure everyone is comfortable. Their familiarity with local waters helps maximize wildlife sightings, which many guests appreciated—”the skipper was very knowledgeable of the area,” commented one reviewer.
Why the Price Offers Good Value
At just over $700 for a private boat, this experience offers excellent value for those seeking exclusivity and tailored attention. The inclusion of drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and sonar equipment means you aren’t paying extra for these amenities, making it a comprehensive marine adventure. Plus, the private setting means you can customize your experience—whether you want to focus on wildlife, snorkeling, or simply relaxing with friends and family.
Summary of Past Guest Experiences
Reviewers consistently highlight the stunning scenery, the abundance of marine life, and the knowledgeable guides. Several mention the “delicious food and boozy drinks,” which elevate the experience beyond just wildlife watching. Others point out that the boat felt spacious and comfortable, even with a full group, adding to the overall enjoyment.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re looking for an intimate, wildlife-focused adventure with a touch of luxury, this private yacht trip checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups celebrating special occasions. Travelers who appreciate personalized service, are eager to see whales and dolphins, and enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters will find this tour a highlight of Tenerife.
However, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the trip, so flexibility and patience are key. It’s also best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and fine scenery rather than high-adrenaline activities.
FAQs
- How many people can join the tour?
Up to 11 passengers can participate, making it a very private and personalized experience. - What is included in the price?
The cost covers the private boat, unlimited drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, bottled water), snacks, snorkeling gear, and sonar equipment for whale and dolphin listening. - Can I choose the cruise duration?
Yes, you can opt for a 3-hour or 6-hour trip depending on your schedule and interests. - Is vegetarian or special food options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; just advise at the time of booking. - Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed. The tour is suitable for children, especially since swimming and snorkeling are optional. - Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Puerto Colon, pantalan 2, Costa Adeje. - Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to meet at the marina; however, the location is near public transportation. - What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. - How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 7 days ahead, so plan early to secure your preferred date. - Can I purchase photos of my trip?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase after the tour.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a private yacht for whale and dolphin watching in Tenerife offers a blend of excitement, comfort, and authenticity. You’ll enjoy the thrill of spotting marine life, the serenity of being on the open sea, and the luxury of personalized service—all in just a few hours. This trip is ideal for those wanting a unique, intimate adventure that combines wildlife, scenery, and leisure.
If you’re traveling as a small group or couple who value quality time and natural beauty, this tour will deliver memorable moments. It’s especially suited for celebrations or special occasions, where a touch of elegance enhances the experience. Keep your camera ready and your expectations high—Tenerife’s waters often surprise even seasoned travelers with their marine wonders.
Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are your best companions. Book early, arrive prepared to enjoy the sea, and you’ll leave with stories worth sharing long after your trip ends.
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- Los Gigantes: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise by Speedboat
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