Tenerife Motor Boat Whale Watching & Snorkeling Experience

Tenerife Motor Boat Whale Watching & Snorkeling Experience: A Practical Guide

Imagine yourself aboard a sleek 10.8-meter motor boat gliding along Tenerife’s southern coast, searching for pods of pilot whales and playful dolphins in their natural environment. This 3-hour tour, costing around $69, combines wildlife watching with a refreshing swim at a sheltered bay, making it an appealing choice for those eager to combine adventure, nature, and a touch of relaxation. Hosted by Tenerife Yacht, this small-group experience emphasizes intimacy and personalized attention, with a maximum of 11 guests.

We love that this tour offers close encounters with marine mammals, which can be difficult to find in larger, more crowded excursions. The highlight is undoubtedly spotting whales and dolphins in the wild—an experience that feels both extraordinary and authentic. Equally appealing is the snorkeling stop at Playa del Puertito, where the chance to see turtles adds a magical touch.

One thing to consider is the small boat size, which means limited seating—so if you prefer lots of space or are prone to seasickness, this might not be your ideal choice. Still, for travelers craving intimate, hands-on wildlife experiences or those who appreciate scenic coastal views, this trip hits the sweet spot.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, families, or anyone seeking a relaxed yet engaging outing on Tenerife. If you’re comfortable on boats and eager to see marine life in its natural habitat while enjoying a scenic boat ride, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Wildlife spotting: Spot pilot whales and dolphins in the wild, with many reviews praising the encounters.
• Snorkeling stop: Playa del Puertito offers a peaceful swimming spot and the chance to see turtles.
• Small group intimacy: With a maximum of 11 guests, you get personalized attention and a more authentic experience.
• Scenic coastline views: The tour provides beautiful vistas of Tenerife’s southern shoreline.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comfortable seating options: Large shaded area or sunbeds at the front for sunbathers.

A Detailed Look at the Tenerife Whale Watching & Snorkeling Tour

Starting Point: Puerto Colon

Your adventure begins at Puerto Colon, one of Tenerife’s busiest tourist ports. It’s a lively spot where you can soak in some local atmosphere before setting off. The port is not only a practical departure point but also a great place for a quick walk, shopping, or even a lazy sunbathe on the nearby beach. After your trip, you’ll return here, making logistics straightforward.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

First stop: Playa del Puertito
This sheltered bay is the first highlight, designed for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are crystal clear, providing excellent visibility and the perfect backdrop to relax and enjoy the marine environment. Adventure seekers and families alike will appreciate the chance to see turtles—a rare and delightful sight.

You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, giving enough time to cool off, snack, and admire the underwater world. Reviews from past travelers mention how peaceful and scenic this stop is, with some noting it’s a nice way to break up the ocean adventure.

Main event: Marine wildlife watching
The core of the tour is the two-hour cruise along Tenerife’s southern coastline. Here, the captain and crew use their expertise to locate pods of pilot whales and dolphins. Many reviewers, like Jenny and Sandra, describe this as an “amazing experience,” emphasizing the thrill of seeing wild animals in their natural surroundings. One visitor was especially happy about seeing both whales and a turtle, adding to the excitement.

The boat’s smaller size enhances the chances of getting close to these creatures, making the sightings feel more genuine and less scripted than larger group tours. The views along the coast are stunning—craggy cliffs, sandy beaches, and sea caves—adding a scenic backdrop to your wildlife encounters.

The Marine Encounter: Authentic and Personal

The reviews highlight the friendly and professional attitude of the crew, with many praising the captain’s attentiveness. The small group size means everyone gets a good view and personal interaction, which enhances the experience. As one reviewer put it, “the captain was great and attentive with everyone,” making the outing comfortable and engaging.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

After the wildlife spotting, you’ll have time to enjoy the water at Playa del Puertito, which is ideal for relaxing and taking photos. The chance to swim in thermal pools or simply float and soak up the sun makes this a well-rounded trip. The reviews also mention bringing snacks and drinks, adding a leisurely touch to the overall experience.

Practical Considerations

The boat’s limited seating means you’ll want to arrive prepared—whether that’s bringing your own snacks or choosing to bask in the sun on the front sunbeds. The boat is accessible by public transportation, and the meeting point is conveniently located in Costa Adeje.

Weather can impact the tour, as with any boat trip, so check the forecast. The tour offers a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, giving peace of mind.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $69, this experience packs in wildlife encounters, scenic views, and time in the water—all in a manageable 3-hour window. Compared to larger, more commercialized tours, this one feels more intimate and authentic, with a genuine chance of seeing marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The small group setup not only enhances your chances of seeing wildlife but also allows for more interaction with the crew, who are praised for their professionalism. The snorkeling stop at Playa del Puertito is a bonus, providing a peaceful break and a chance to observe sea turtles—a highlight for many.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature enthusiasts eager to see animals in the wild, families with kids who enjoy water activities, or adventurers looking for a scenic boat ride combined with wildlife spotting. If you enjoy small-group experiences and value personalized service, you’ll appreciate the attentiveness of the crew. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to avoid the crowds found on larger tours.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife Motor Boat Whale Watching & Snorkeling Experience offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re after authentic animal encounters in a setting that’s intimate and friendly. The scenic coastline views and chance to observe pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat** make it a memorable outing. Plus, the snorkeling stop at Playa del Puertito adds a peaceful, underwater dimension that many travelers cherish.

While the boat’s small size may not suit everyone—especially those seeking more space or worried about seasickness—the overall experience is highly rated for its authenticity and professional crew. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this tour offers a genuine slice of Tenerife’s marine life and coastal beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including the snorkeling stop and wildlife watching.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Puerto Colon in Tenerife.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip, wildlife watching, and the snorkeling stop at Playa del Puertito. Snacks and drinks are best brought along.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a great experience for families, especially those interested in marine animals.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 11 guests, making it a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. The tour will be canceled if weather conditions are poor, with a full refund offered.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, snacks, drinks, sun protection, and any personal items for comfort.

Will I see whales and dolphins?
While sightings depend on animal activity, many past travelers have reported seeing pilot whales and dolphins during their trip.

Is the boat accessible by public transport?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation options in Costa Adeje.

Overall, if you’re seeking an authentic, engaging, and scenic wildlife tour on Tenerife, this small-group motor boat experience offers real value and memorable moments.