Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip

If you’re heading to Tenerife and hunting for a memorable ocean adventure, the Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip offered by Tenerife Yacht is a solid contender. This 3-hour excursion combines dolphin and whale sightings with opportunities to snorkel at beautiful coastal spots, making it a versatile experience suitable for families, couples, or anyone eager to see the island’s marine life up close.

What makes this trip stand out? For many, it’s the chance to see wild animals like pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, an experience that’s increasingly rare. Plus, the trip includes a scenic cruise around Tenerife’s coastline, with options to relax, sunbathe, or dip into the water during the daytime.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the group’s size—capped at 11 travelers—which helps keep the atmosphere personal and relaxed but might mean you need to book well in advance as it’s popular, often booked about 10 days ahead.

This tour is ideal for those who love wildlife, enjoy a good boat trip, and want authentic, close-to-nature experiences without breaking the bank. If you’re after a fun, informative, and value-packed marine adventure, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: Expect to see whales, dolphins, and possibly turtles in their natural environment.
• Scenic coastline views: The cruise offers stunning vistas of Tenerife’s coastlines and beaches.
• Water-based activities: Snorkeling at Playa del Puertito provides a chance to swim alongside fish and maybe even spot turtles.
• Personalized experience: Small group sizes mean more attention from guides and a more intimate boat ride.
• Great value: For around $62.68 per person, you get a mix of wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and scenic sailing.
• Expert guides: The crew, including guides like Vladka and Dani, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife efficiently.

Start Point and Setting

Your adventure begins at Puerto Colon, one of Tenerife’s biggest touristic ports. This location is a hub of activity, with plenty of cafes, shops, and beach spots nearby. It’s a friendly start point where you’ll check in easily, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Many reviewers mention the simplicity of check-in and the convenience of the location, which is accessible via public transportation.

The Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: Playa del Puertito

The trip kicks off with a 30-minute stop at Playa del Puertito. This little cove is renowned for its calm, crystal-clear waters—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Here, you can expect to wear provided snorkeling gear and explore underwater. Several reviewers have noted the chance of spotting sea turtles during this stop, which adds an exciting element to the water activities.

It’s worth noting that the snorkeling stop may be brief—about 10 to 30 minutes—depending on ocean conditions and the captain’s judgment. As one reviewer pointed out, sometimes the focus is on wildlife sightings, which can mean less time for snorkeling; but overall, the stop offers a peaceful swim and a chance to relax before heading further out.

Main Event: Dolphin and Whale Watching

The heart of the tour is a 2.5-hour wildlife cruise. Expect to see pilot whales and dolphins in the wild, with experienced guides like Captain Dani and crew members who are praised for their sharp eyes and enthusiasm. Multiple reviews highlight how captain Dani and others work tirelessly to locate these magnificent creatures, often close enough for excellent viewing.

Reviewers describe the experience as “unforgettable,” with some lucky enough to see groups of pilot whales up close. One reviewer shared, “We had a wonderful afternoon at sea and soon we were next to a group of five pilot whales.” The guides are also appreciated for their ability to keep the mood lively, sharing interesting facts about marine life and Tenerife’s coastline.

Snorkeling and Water Fun

While wildlife watching is the priority, snorkeling remains an option—though its duration might vary. Some reviewers expressed satisfaction, mentioning they enjoyed the chance to take a swim, sample some snacks, and soak up the sun. Others said the snorkeling gear was functional but not top-of-the-line, which is understandable at this price point.

The “small boat” size of just 11 travelers creates a cozy, intimate vibe, giving you a feeling of a private trip rather than a crowded tour. It also makes the water activities more relaxed and personalized.

Additional Highlights

• Views of Tenerife’s coastline: The cruise offers spectacular scenery, with many reviewers noting how stunning the coast looks at sunset or during the day.
• Snacks and refreshments: Included in the trip are sandwiches, drinks, and sometimes beer, making the experience more enjoyable. One reviewer said, “Great butties and beer,” which is a simple but appreciated touch.
• Sunbathing and relaxing: The boat’s deck is perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views during downtime.

Guides and Crew

What truly elevates this tour are the knowledgeable guides and crew members like Vladka, who many reviews mention with warmth. Guests often say they felt well-looked after, especially families with kids—one reviewer appreciated how Vladka “really looked after our kids.” The crew’s humor and friendliness seem to be a hallmark, making the trip both fun and informative.

Captain Dani and Salvatore also get shout-outs for their professionalism and wildlife spotting skills. Their experience is evident in the smooth navigation and the successful sightings of whales and dolphins, which many travelers say made their trip unforgettable.

At just $62.68 per person, this excursion offers a lot. Considering the inclusion of wildlife viewing, snorkeling, snacks, and drinks, it’s a good deal. Many reviews highlight the value, noting that they got plenty of time to relax, swim, and see marine animals, all with attentive service.

Compared to larger, more commercial tours, the smaller group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible. You’re not just a number—you’re part of a small, friendly crew, which adds a lot to the overall enjoyment.

The Experience’s Balance

While wildlife sightings are the highlight, the brief snorkeling stop complements the trip well. It’s not a dedicated snorkeling tour, so don’t expect hours underwater, but it’s enough to dip your toes and enjoy the vibrant marine life. Reviewers say the crew is accommodating and friendly, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

• Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and often booked 10 days ahead.
• The meeting point is in Costa Adeje, easily accessible by public transportation.
• The duration is approximately 3 hours, a perfect length for families or travelers with limited time.
• The boat accommodates up to 11 travelers, fostering an intimate environment.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers; service animals are allowed, and the activity is generally safe.
• Weather can affect the trip—if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, but some reviewers suggest bringing your own if you prefer a particular mask or tube.

Many guests have raved about their guides’ dedication. One wrote, “Salvatore was a great skipper and the two women who helped were very friendly.” The crew’s ability to spot wildlife is often mentioned as a highlight—several reviewers described how Captain Dani and others could find whales and dolphins quickly, making for an exciting and rewarding trip.

The reviews also reveal that the trip feels personalized. For example, one group was the only three people on their trip, which made it feel extra special. Another guest enjoyed the chance to sprinkle crumbs into the water after snorkeling, which attracted fish and added a fun, interactive element.

The food offerings, especially sandwiches, are simple but well-received. One reviewer mentioned “great butties and beer,” emphasizing how these small touches enhance the experience.

This whale watching and snorkeling tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, authentic, and intimate marine adventure. If you’re eager to see wild dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, this trip offers a genuine chance to do so with expert guides. It’s particularly great for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or those wanting a relaxed day on the water without the crowd.

The combination of wildlife viewing, scenic coastline, and water activities makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to combine relaxation with adventure. Plus, the small group size and friendly crew ensure you’re not just another face in the crowd but a valued guest.

While the snorkeling component may be brief and weather-dependent, the chance to see marine mammals and enjoy the stunning vistas more than makes up for it. This tour offers remarkable value for its price, blending fun, education, and natural beauty into one memorable package.

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviewers mention families with kids enjoying the trip, especially noting guides like Vladka who looked after children well. The activity is generally suitable for most ages, provided the children are comfortable on boats.

How long does the whale watching last? The main wildlife viewing segment lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with additional time for snorkeling and cruising.

What wildlife can I expect to see? Mostly pilot whales and dolphins, with some lucky travelers also seeing turtles and rays.

Is snorkeling included in the trip? Yes, the tour includes a stop for swimming and snorkeling at Playa del Puertito, usually lasting around 10-30 minutes.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel for swimming. Snorkeling gear is provided but bring your own if you prefer.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the trip. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a full refund or a rescheduled date.

How many people are on the boat? The maximum group size is 11 travelers, making the experience more personal and relaxed.

Is food and drinks included? Yes, snacks like sandwiches, potato chips, and drinks are provided onboard, with some reviews mentioning beer as well.

Is this tour recommended for solo travelers? Absolutely. The small group setting and friendly guides make it a perfect way to connect with others or enjoy a solo adventure.

Overall, the Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling Yacht Trip balances authentic wildlife encounters with scenic relaxation, all delivered by a friendly crew in a cozy setting. For those wanting to experience Tenerife’s marine life without fuss or hefty costs, this tour offers genuine value and unforgettable memories.