Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip: A Deep Dive
If you’re visiting Tenerife and craving a chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, this 3-hour yacht trip offers one of the best opportunities. Starting out from Costa Adeje, the journey takes you into the waters of the Atlantic, where playful dolphins and majestic whales often make an appearance. For around €50-€70, you get a well-rounded experience that combines wildlife viewing with leisure activities like swimming and sunbathing.
What we love about this trip is the intimate setting provided by the yacht, which allows for close-up wildlife encounters and relaxing downtime. The breathtaking views of Tenerife’s coastline from the water create a memorable backdrop, making every moment feel special. Plus, the snacks and drinks onboard mean you can focus on enjoying the ride without worry.
One thing to keep in mind is that wildlife sightings are never 100% guaranteed, with some reviews noting that whales can be elusive. If you’re a flexible traveler who appreciates the thrill of the chase and the chance to relax on a boat, this experience is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, families, or anyone wanting a gentle, scenic excursion that balances adventure with leisure.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: Likely to see dolphins and possibly whales, but sightings depend on sea conditions.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Comfortable yacht with space to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the Atlantic waters.
- Expert Guidance: Captains and interpreters enhance the experience, sharing insights about local marine life.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve with the option to pay later.
- Ideal for All: Suitable for most ages except those with specific restrictions like altitude sickness or non-folding wheelchairs.
- Scenic Views: Expect stunning vistas of Tenerife’s coastline from the water.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Tenerife
An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip
The Experience at a Glance
This 3-hour adventure is based out of Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje. The meeting point is conveniently located in front of Mastro Bistrot, making it easy to find. Once on board, you’ll quickly notice the warm welcome from the crew, who prioritize making the trip enjoyable and memorable. The price is generally in the range of €50 to €70, which we find quite reasonable considering the amount of time, activities, and the potential wildlife sightings.
What’s Included and What to Expect
The package includes time on the yacht with the captain, who not only navigates but also provides insightful commentary about the local marine life. Snacks and drinks are included, which means you can sip on a cold beverage or nibble on some light fare while soaking up the sun.
One of the most appealing elements is the stop for swimming and snorkeling. The waters off Tenerife are teeming with marine life, and the crew encourages guests to jump in and explore the underwater world — a rare chance to get close to the Atlantic’s natural beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Itinerary: From Departure to Return
While the exact schedule varies depending on availability, the trip generally begins with a briefing and safety instructions. As you set sail, you’ll cruise along the coast, taking in breathtaking views of Tenerife’s cliffs and beaches. The crew, including Captain Sergio or similar, will scan the waters for signs of marine life and share their knowledge whenever possible.
The main highlight is the hope of seeing whales and dolphins. According to reviews, there’s about a 50/50 chance of spotting whales, which matches the unpredictability of wildlife excursions. Even if whales are shy, dolphins and turtles often make appearances, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
Hoping to spot marine life? We've covered these other whale watching options in Tenerife
- Whale Watching Eco-Adventure from Costa Adeje
- No chase Whale & Dolphin tour putting Marine Life first – we care
- Whale and Dolphin Small Group Sailing from Tenerife South
- Tenerife Whales and Dolphins Watching Experience in Catamaran
- 3-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching and Listening Tour
- Tenerife 3-Hour Discover Whales and Dolphins
Wildlife Sightings and the Authentic Experience
While there’s no guarantee you’ll see whales every trip, the possibility of sightings enhances the sense of adventure. One reviewer noted, “Unfortunately, we didn’t see any whales, but we did see turtles and dolphins,” emphasizing that even without the main target, the experience remains rewarding. Our own impression is that the professionalism of the crew and their dedication to finding wildlife make the trip worth it, regardless of the specific animals spotted.
Leisure and Comfort on Board
The yacht itself is comfortable, providing ample space to lounge, sunbathe, and enjoy the ocean breeze. You might find yourself jumping into the water more than once, especially if you’re eager to cool off or explore the marine environment. The snacks and drinks keep you refreshed, and the interpretative commentary adds educational value—perfect for families or curious travelers.
Practical Tips for a Great Trip
- Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and beachwear for comfort.
- Drones, non-folding wheelchairs, and glass objects are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
- Since no pickup is included, plan your transport to the departure point.
- Weather conditions can influence wildlife sightings, so flexibility helps.
The Value for Money
Compared to other tours, the value here is solid. You get several hours on the water, chances to see marine wildlife, and leisure time to enjoy the ocean. The inclusion of snacks and interpretive guidance enhances the experience, making the modest price seem quite fair. Remember, wildlife watching is inherently unpredictable, but the stunning scenery and relaxed environment make it worthwhile even without guaranteed sightings.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip suits nature lovers and families looking for a gentle, scenic outing. It’s ideal if you’re interested in marine life but don’t want a high-pressure or overly lengthy tour. Those who enjoy relaxing on a boat, soaking up sun, and exploring near the coast will find it particularly appealing. It’s also a good choice for travelers wanting an authentic, less commercialized experience.
Final Thoughts
The Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Though wildlife sightings depend on luck, the chance to see dolphins, turtles, and possibly whales makes it a compelling choice for anyone passionate about the sea.
The experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate stunning coastlines, leisurely activities, and educational insights. The friendly crew and comfortable yacht create an approachable environment, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a memorable day on the water.
While it’s not a guarantee of whale sightings, the overall value, scenic views, and relaxed pace make this trip a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary. Whether wildlife is spotted or not, you’ll leave with plenty of beautiful photos and stories to share.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, with actual start times depending on availability.
Where does the tour depart from?
From the meeting point at Puerto Colon 128, Costa Adeje, in front of Mastro Bistrot.
Is wildlife guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on sea conditions. There’s about a 50/50 chance of seeing whales, but dolphins and turtles are often seen.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and beachwear for comfort.
Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, light snacks and drinks are provided on board.
Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there’s a stop for swimming and snorkeling, so bring your gear if you want to explore underwater.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Mostly yes, but check specific restrictions regarding age and mobility, especially since non-folding wheelchairs or strollers are not allowed.
Are there any restrictions?
Drones, glass objects, and non-folding wheelchairs or strollers are not permitted on the yacht.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this a good value?
Considering the time, activities, snacks, and potential wildlife sightings, it offers good value for a relaxed, scenic outing.
This trip is a refreshing way to spend a few hours in Tenerife’s waters, blending wildlife watching with leisurely sunbathing—an experience that’ll leave you with stories as vivid as the ocean views.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Sailing Experiences in Tenerife
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More Tenerife experiences we've covered
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- Tenerife: Santa Cruz, La Laguna and Anaga Tour
- Tenerife: PADI Beginner Scuba Dive in the Turtle Area
- Tenerife: 6 & 8 Hour Private Luxury Motorboat Charter
- Puerto Colón: Coastal Boat Cruise with Swimming and Snacks
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- Tenerife: Puerto Colon Certified Scuba Dive by Speed Boat
- Small Group Snorkeling in Abades Bay with Licensed Guide
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Advanced introductory course
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