Teno to Masca: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks

Teno to Masca: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks offers a fantastic way to see some of Tenerife’s most dramatic coastlines up close. For just $40 per person, you’ll spend around two hours on a small, intimate boat cruise from Punta de Teno to Masca, stopping for snorkeling and enjoying complimentary drinks. If you’re craving a mix of stunning scenery, marine life, and a relaxed vibe, this is a trip worth considering.

What we love about this experience is how personal and authentic it feels — the small boat means more space for questions and interaction, and the knowledgeable skipper really adds to the enjoyment with lively explanations. Plus, the chance to snorkel in clear waters and spot creatures like sea turtles or even manta rays keeps things exciting.

That said, a few things to keep in mind: the meeting point involves a bus from Buenavista del Norte, which adds a layer of planning, and since the boat accommodates only 12 people, it’s best to book early if you’re traveling with family or friends. This trip suits travelers who enjoy nature, marine life, and a relaxed pace over a crowded, commercialized tour.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 participants, offering a more personalized experience.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters with goggles provided.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Cruise along Los Gigantes cliffs and around Masca.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable skippers who share insights about the coast and marine life.
• Convenient Inclusions: Drinks and a stop for swimming and relaxing.
• Planning Required: Transportation to Punta de Teno involves a bus from Buenavista del Norte.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect on the Teno to Masca Boat Trip

Starting Point & Logistics
Your adventure begins at Punta de Teno, a wild and relatively remote spot with no direct vehicle access. You’ll need to take a bus from Buenavista del Norte — a quick 10-minute ride costing just about one euro. Be sure to plan your timing carefully; the tours start at scheduled times (like 12:00 or 14:00), and the bus schedule is crucial — the 12:00 tour requires catching the 11:05 bus, and the 14:00 tour needs the 13:10 departure. The bus runs hourly all year round, so factoring in this transfer is key to smooth planning.

The Boat & Route
Once on board, the boat — which can comfortably hold 12 — feels cozy but not cramped. The skipper, often described as knowledgeable and engaging, guides you along Los Gigantes cliffs, providing commentary on their formation and the local marine environment. As you navigate the coast, you’ll get breathtaking views of towering cliffs, natural coves, and the rugged landscape of Tenerife. The route is designed to showcase the most impressive sections of the coast, including the tiny, charming Masca Beach, where you’ll stop for a swim and snorkel.

Snorkeling & Marine Life
The highlight for many is the snorkeling stop. You’ll be given goggles, and the waters are so clear that spotting marine fauna feels effortless. According to reviews, you might see sea turtles, manta rays, or octopus, which adds an element of excitement and discovery. The boat pauses for a swim in one of the bays, giving you plenty of time to relax, float, and admire the underwater world.

Drinks & Relaxation
A generous part of the appeal is the inclusive drinks — water, soft drinks, or beer — perfect for cooling down and enjoying the scenery. The reviews praise the cold drinks and friendly atmosphere onboard, making the entire experience feel more like a social outing than a formal tour.

Stops & Sightseeing
The itinerary includes a photo stop at Teno, a scenic area with great vantage points, and free time at Masca, a tiny village famous for its dramatic setting. While the boat only briefly visits Masca, the time ashore allows for photos, a quick look around, and a refreshing dip in the sea.

Return & End of Tour
After a couple of hours, the boat heads back to Punta de Teno. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed, with no rushing, but punctuality is important — the boat departs shortly after the 15-minute courtesy window, so arriving on time is essential.

Authenticity & What Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight the knowledge and humor of the guides as a major plus. Dennis, for instance, mentions Nico as a “humoristic man who knew everything about Los Gigantes and ocean life,” which made the journey memorable. Another traveler raved about the “impressive route” and “good explanations,” reflecting the value of an engaging skipper.

Snorkeling is a standout feature, with visitors praising the clarity of the water and the chance to see marine fauna up close. The small boat size enhances this intimacy, making questions easy to ask and the experience more personalized. As one review explains, “the boat is small, so there’s more space to ask questions,” which is perfect for curious travelers or those who want a deeper understanding of the area.

The Value of This Experience

At $40, this tour offers a good balance of cost and value. The inclusion of drinks, snorkel goggles, and the small group setting makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting an authentic, relaxed coastal adventure. Compared to larger, commercial tours, the intimacy and knowledge-sharing feel more genuine.

However, it’s essential to recognize that this is not a luxury cruise — no fancy amenities or extensive facilities are available at Punta de Teno itself, and you’ll need to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear. The focus is firmly on enjoying nature and marine life in a simple, enjoyable way.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, those interested in marine wildlife, and travelers who enjoy small-group experiences. If you’re keen on stunning views, snorkeling, and learning from friendly guides, you’ll find this a rewarding outing. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic, low-key adventures over commercialized package tours. Families with children who can snorkel and appreciate the outdoors will also find this a charming option, provided they’re comfortable with the bus transfer.

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Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Punta de Teno to Masca truly offers a blend of spectacular scenery, marine encounters, and relaxed atmosphere. The small group and knowledgeable guides make it feel intimate and special, giving you a chance to connect with Tenerife’s rugged coast in a more personal way.

While it requires some planning with the bus transfer, the payoff is a memorable, authentic experience that highlights some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes and marine life. It’s particularly suited for those who want an active, engaging, and authentic way to explore Tenerife’s coast without the crowds.

For travelers who value stunning views, marine life, and a friendly atmosphere, this trip delivers on all fronts — a genuinely enjoyable slice of Tenerife’s natural beauty.

FAQ

How do I get to Punta de Teno?
You must take a bus from Buenavista del Norte, as private vehicle access is restricted. The bus runs hourly, and you’ll need to plan your schedule around the tour start time.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, and beachwear. Remember, there are no food or drink outlets at Punta de Teno, so pack snacks if needed and use sunscreen.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, goggles are provided, and the waters are clear with good opportunities to see marine life like sea turtles and manta rays.

How big is the boat?
The boat can hold a maximum of 12 people, making it a cozy, intimate experience rather than a crowded cruise.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary; common options are around 12:00 or 14:00, but check availability and plan your bus transfer accordingly.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a complimentary drink — water, soft drink, or beer — is included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This boat trip from Teno to Masca combines natural beauty, marine excitement, and relaxed pacing — a genuine highlight for anyone wanting to see Tenerife’s coast from a different perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: