Tenerife: Accessible Cruise with Turtles, Dolphins & Whales

Imagine sailing along Tenerife’s dramatic coast, spotting humpback whales, basking turtles, and playful dolphins—without worrying about mobility barriers. For $588 per group (up to 10), this fully accessible boat tour offers an intimate, relaxed way to explore marine life and coastlines, perfect for families, solo travelers, or anyone with mobility concerns.

What really sets this experience apart? First, the boat, Santa Rita, is the world’s first fully accessible tourist vessel. Second, the small group size ensures personalized attention, making every moment feel special. But keep in mind, the tour doesn’t include hotel transport, so planning your arrival is necessary. This trip suits those looking for a comfortable, eco-conscious adventure with a focus on marine wildlife and authentic Tenerife views.

Key Points

• Accessible Design: Fully equipped for mobility scooters and wheelchairs, with ramps and accessible bathrooms.
• Small Group Experience: Up to 10 guests for a relaxed, personalized adventure.
• Wildlife & Underwater Ecosystem: Chance to see 17 species of whales, dolphins, and turtles, with snorkel options.
• Comfort & Amenities: Shaded seating, artificial grass deck, and a gourmet Mediterranean pasta meal.
• Eco-Friendly & Respectful: Emphasis on responsible wildlife viewing without chasing animals.
• Flexible Tours: Options include 3-hour, private, full-day, or sunset cruises to suit different interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Unique Way to Discover Tenerife’s Marine World

We love how this tour combines luxury, accessibility, and environmental respect all in one package. Starting from the port area, you’ll board Santa Rita, a vessel designed from the ground up to welcome everyone, regardless of mobility. The guides, though not named, are described as experienced and friendly, eager to share Tenerife’s marine riches.

At $588 for a full group, the value lies in exclusivity—you’re not crammed onto a crowded boat but instead enjoy plenty of space to relax. Plus, the tour’s focus on accessible design means you can hop on and off with ease, whether using a wheelchair or scooter, thanks to a hydraulic platform and special water-accessible gear.

Two things we particularly appreciate: the chance to witness marine wildlife in their natural habitat—including 17 whale species—and the thoughtful inclusion of a gourmet Italian pasta as a meal, a surprising and lovely treat after hours on the water.

A possible drawback? As the tour is small and highly personalized, it may be pricier than larger, less tailored excursions. Also, since it doesn’t include hotel transfers, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s both inclusive and eco-minded—and you want to experience Tenerife’s coast with fewer crowds—this tour is a perfect fit. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, up-close wildlife encounters, and a sustainable approach.

What You Can Expect on This Accessible Tenerife Marine Tour

The Departure and Setting Sail

Your journey begins at the designated meeting point, marked clearly with signs and a blue line for guidance—the start of a relaxed, small-group adventure. Once aboard Santa Rita, you’ll immediately notice its thoughtful design: ramps, secure spaces for wheelchairs, and shaded seating.

The boat’s artificial grass deck offers a cozy, casual feel, perfect for sunbathing or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. The crew makes sure everyone is comfortably settled, and with a maximum of 10 guests, the atmosphere feels intimate and unhurried.

Discovering Guaza Fish Farm and Marine Ecosystem

One of the first stops is the Guaza Fish Farm—a vibrant marine ecosystem where sea bream and bass are cultivated. From the boat, you can observe schools of sardines and mackerel darting around, attracting larger marine predators like dolphins and sea turtles. “We loved the way the dolphins would often come close, swimming alongside us, seemingly curious,” one reviewer noted.

This area isn’t just scenic; it’s a living classroom that offers insights into sustainable fishing and marine conservation, all while keeping animal disturbance to a minimum. The guides are well-informed and passionate, sharing stories about the species and ecosystems observed.

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Lovers Cave: A Photo-Perfect Stop

Next, your boat will approach the Lovers Cave, a striking sea cave with crystal-clear waters. Here, the calm waters and stunning rock formations make it an excellent spot for photos. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the sunlight filtering through openings, creating shimmering reflections on the water. It’s a peaceful, almost mystical part of the journey that offers a break from wildlife spotting.

Wildlife Watching: Whales, Dolphins, and Turtles

The core of this experience is wildlife observation. The crew has an impressive record of spotting 17 whale species, including pilot whales and other cetaceans that often swim close enough for a good look. Dolphins are frequently playful companions, riding the bow waves, and turtles sometimes surface nearby.

One guest shared, “Seeing the whales breach and dolphins leap around the boat was truly breathtaking.” The emphasis on responsible wildlife viewing means the boat stays at respectful distances—no chasing or loud noises—allowing animals to go about their day naturally.

Snorkeling in Crystal Waters

For those who want a more immersive experience, snorkeling is optional but included. The boat anchors in Las Vistas Bay—a peaceful spot with clear waters ready for exploration. Assistance is available for those with mobility concerns, thanks to accessible gear and staff support.

Snorkelers can expect to see vibrant fish, coral formations, and maybe even a curious turtle or two. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and help for those with reduced mobility makes this a genuine opportunity for all to connect with the underwater world.

Relaxing and Dining with Mediterranean Flavors

After several hours of adventure, it’s time to relax and refuel. The onboard meal is a freshly prepared Italian-style pasta with Mediterranean flavors—surprisingly gourmet for a boat tour. Soft drinks are included, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

Guests often remark on the quality of the food. “The pasta was delightful—simple, flavorful, and exactly what we needed after a morning of wildlife spotting.”

Return and Reflection

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with plenty of time to discuss sightings, take photos, or simply soak in the views. The experience ends on a high note, with everyone feeling more connected to Tenerife’s marine environment.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While $588 might seem steep compared to larger group excursions, the small-group size and full accessibility justify the price. You’re paying for personalized attention, peace of mind, and the chance to see wildlife in a respectful, eco-conscious manner.

The accessible design is unmatched—no other tour in Tenerife offers such easy entry and exit for guests with mobility challenges. This makes the experience truly inclusive, ensuring everyone can enjoy the thrill of spotting whales or swimming in the sea.

The gourmet meal and amenities like shaded seating, artificial grass decks, and accessible bathrooms add to the comfort, making this more than just a wildlife cruise—they’re a hospitality experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re traveling with family members who have mobility concerns, or if you simply want a more personalized, less crowded experience, this tour hits the mark. Nature lovers keen on seeing up to 17 whale species and enjoying a responsible, eco-friendly approach will find it especially rewarding.

It’s ideal for those who value comfort and accessibility without sacrificing immersion in Tenerife’s marine environment. But keep in mind, if you prefer large, lively party boats with loud music and long hours, this might not be your style.

The Sum Up

This accessible cruise in Tenerife offers a rare combination of luxury, environmental mindfulness, and inclusivity. You’ll experience the thrill of wildlife sightings—whales breaching, dolphins leaping, turtles gliding—while enjoying comfort and peace of mind onboard Santa Rita. The small, intimate setting encourages authentic encounters and a relaxed pace, perfect for families, seniors, or anyone with mobility needs.

The thoughtful amenities, eco-conscious approach, and quality meal make it stand out among marine tours. It’s a genuine chance to connect with Tenerife’s ocean in a way that respects both your needs and the environment.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, respectful, and accessible adventure with a focus on marine life and scenic beauty, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, the boat is fully accessible, with ramps, a hydraulic platform, and accessible bathrooms, making it easy for wheelchair and scooter users to join.

What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
You’ll have a good chance to see 17 whale species, dolphins, and turtles in their natural habitat, with some reviews noting close encounters and playful activity.

Does this tour include snorkeling?
Yes, snorkeling is available and included, with assistance provided for those who need it. The waters are crystal clear, perfect for exploring marine life.

How long does the tour last?
Tour durations vary—options include 3-hour tours, private or full-day experiences, and sunset cruises—so you can choose what fits your schedule.

Are food and drinks included?
A Mediterranean-style pasta meal and soft drinks are included. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, water, and any personal items you need. If concerned about mobility, ensure your mobility device is compatible with the boat’s facilities.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off—you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

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

Is this tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s suitable for families, especially those who value comfort and accessibility, and want to introduce kids to marine wildlife in a safe setting.

How does this tour compare to other Tenerife wildlife excursions?
Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this one emphasizes small group intimacy, full accessibility, and responsible wildlife viewing—making it unique and highly inclusive.

This Tenerife accessible cruise offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and ecological respect that makes for a truly memorable experience at sea. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family with mobility needs, or someone seeking a peaceful escape, it deserves a spot on your Tenerife itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: