Tenerife Turtle and Snorkel Tour from Costa Adeje

Tenerife Turtle and Snorkel Tour from Costa Adeje offers an engaging window into the island’s underwater world without the need for heavy scuba gear. For around $53, you’ll spend approximately three hours on a boat trip from Costa Adeje, cruising to some of Tenerife’s best snorkeling spots — places known for frequent sea turtle sightings and thriving marine life. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, this tour promises the chance to see turtles, rays, and colorful fish in their natural habitat, making it an ideal outing for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible the snorkeling is — everything you need, including masks, fins, and snorkels, is provided, so there’s no need to bring your own equipment. Plus, the guides are often praised for their professionalism and friendliness, helping to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable in the water. However, a potential consideration is that, since sightings of turtles are not guaranteed, patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy marine life and are comfortable swimming in open water, as it’s not designed for non-swimmers. Also, if you’re keen on a relaxed, small-group experience that balances adventure with safety, this outing is likely to meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Authentic marine encounters with sea turtles, fish, and rays in Tenerife’s clear waters.
• Guided snorkeling with gear included, ensuring a hassle-free experience without heavy equipment.
• Small group size (max 10 travelers) for personalized attention and safety.
• Flexible departure times accommodate different schedules.
• Not guaranteed sightings: patience is key, as turtles are wild and free.
• Potential for choppy seas: conditions vary, so be prepared for rough water days.

A Detailed Look at the Tenerife Turtle and Snorkel Tour

Setting the Scene: From Costa Adeje to the Underwater World

Starting at the PADI 5-star Travel Sub Dive Center in Costa Adeje, the tour kicks off with a friendly welcome. The location itself is easy to find and near public transportation, making access straightforward. When you arrive, you’re greeted with a full set of quality snorkeling gear — masks, fins, and tubes that are often praised for being in good condition — ready for your adventure.

The boat ride to the snorkeling sites takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, during which you can enjoy the scenic views of Tenerife’s southern coast. The crew, often described as welcoming and organized, also takes care to keep everyone warm with wetsuits and sometimes even warm coats, especially on chilly mornings or windy days.

The Itinerary Breakdown: Stops and Highlights

First Stop – The Snorkeling Cove:

Once at the designated snorkeling area, the guides will give a quick but thorough safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of respecting marine life and staying close to the group. The site is selected for its clarity, vibrant underwater flora, and fauna, and the chance to spot Canary turtles — a highlight for many participants. The depths range from 2 to 8 meters, making it suitable for most swimmers, and the water temperature is generally mild, thanks to Tenerife’s subtropical climate.

Several reviews mention the thrill of seeing turtles up close, with some travelers describing the experience as “just wow” — particularly if a friendly turtle approaches. Even if turtles are elusive, the colorful fish and rays are often abundant. One reviewer happily noted seeing “lots of tropical fish and an octopus,” which adds variety to the underwater spectacle.

Second Stop – Marine Wildlife and Fish:

Beyond the hope of turtle sightings, snorkelers often encounter a variety of marine life. Smaller fish, rays, and even dolphins can be glimpsed, especially on clearer days. Some reviews mention the crew’s underwater photography services, allowing you to purchase souvenirs of your trip, although the selection process for these photos can be a bit cumbersome.

The Guides: Knowledge and Safety

Many reviewers praise the guides — especially a Dutch guide named Sebastian — for being knowledgeable, professional, and attentive. They’re clear with safety instructions, patient with beginners, and helpful in adjusting equipment like masks. One reviewer remarked, “Sebastian and the crew were very attentive and had everything and everyone in sight,” which keeps the experience safe and enjoyable.

However, a few reviews tell a different story. One person described a harrowing incident where they were left behind and almost drowned — a stark reminder that marine excursions always carry certain risks, and safety procedures are crucial. While most trips run smoothly, it’s important to follow instructions and be aware of water conditions.

Conditions and Potential Drawbacks

The sea conditions can vary greatly. While some days provide calm waters ideal for snorkeling, others can be quite choppy, making it a more challenging experience. Several reviewers mention rough seas, with some feeling seasick or battered by waves. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calmer water, checking the weather forecast beforehand might help set expectations.

Another point to keep in mind is that sea turtle sightings are not guaranteed. As one reviewer noted, “Sadly we didn’t see any turtles,” which is a common occurrence with wild animals. The journey is as much about exploring Tenerife’s marine environment as it is about seeing specific creatures.

The Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price of roughly $53 per person, the tour offers decent value — especially since all gear is included, and the guides are well-regarded. You get about three hours of boat ride and snorkeling, which is enough time to relax, explore, and possibly encounter some of Tenerife’s most iconic marine animals. For families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a safe, organized adventure in the water, this tour hits the right notes.

However, some reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations. If your main goal is to see turtles, know that nature is unpredictable. But if you’re after a fun, guided snorkeling experience with friendly staff and beautiful underwater scenery, it’s a solid choice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy marine environments, are comfortable swimming, and appreciate small-group attention. It’s particularly suited for travelers looking for an effortless way to see Tenerife’s underwater life without lugging their own equipment or venturing into scuba gear. Families with kids who swim well or adults eager for close encounters with sea turtles will find this engaging.

On the flip side, if you’re a highly experienced snorkeler expecting guaranteed turtle sightings or prefer very calm seas, you might want to explore other options or prepare for some unpredictability.

FAQs

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?
No, all equipment including masks, fins, and snorkels are provided with the tour. Just bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Not really. The tour requires you to be able to swim on your own, so it’s better suited for confident swimmers.

What if I don’t see any turtles?
Sightings aren’t guaranteed because wildlife is unpredictable. Many travelers still enjoy the boat ride and snorkeling experience, even if they don’t spot a turtle.

How long is the boat ride to the snorkeling site?
It takes about 20 to 30 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time on the water to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers a choice of departure times, making it easier to fit into your travel schedule.

What are the conditions like?
Sea conditions can vary. Some days the water is calm, ideal for snorkeling, while others can be choppy, which might be uncomfortable for some.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Tenerife Turtle and Snorkel Tour from Costa Adeje is a solid choice for travelers seeking an engaging, well-organized marine adventure. It provides a chance to see the island’s marine life in a relaxed setting with friendly guides, all at a reasonable price point. While turtle sightings are never guaranteed, many participants leave with memorable stories of colorful fish and rays, and some enjoy the thrill of spotting a turtle or even dolphins.

If you’re comfortable swimming and enjoy being in the water, this tour will suit you well. It’s best for those who value good equipment, attentive guides, and manageable group sizes. Keep expectations in check regarding wildlife sightings, and prepare for potentially lively seas — but overall, it’s an enjoyable way to connect with Tenerife’s natural beauty underwater.

In summary, this snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and wildlife sightings for those looking to explore Tenerife’s marine environment without the fuss of scuba diving. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager for a safe, guided experience, and who appreciate the chance to see some of the island’s most famous residents — sea turtles.