Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling

This 3-hour tour offered by Roulette Charters promises a relaxed yet immersive experience on Tenerife’s waters, combining whale and dolphin sightings, snorkeling, and delicious snacks. It’s a way to enjoy the Canary Islands’ coastline away from crowded tourist spots, all aboard a cozy 12-meter sailboat that accommodates only 10 guests.

One of the standout features of this trip is the knowledgeable crew, led by guides who are passionate about marine life and eager to share their insights. The small group size makes for a more personal, less rushed experience – a big plus for those who dislike feeling like just another face in a crowd.

A potential consideration is the weather; since it’s a sailing trip, choppy seas or windier days might impact comfort, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. But overall, this experience is best suited for travelers looking for a genuine, educational encounter with the sea, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and enjoy the natural beauty of Tenerife’s coastline and its wildlife.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size ensures personalized attention and better wildlife viewing.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds in their natural environment.
• Comfort & Amenities: The boat has three double cabins, two bathrooms, and deck mats for lounging.
• Food & Drinks: Snacks, refreshments, and soft drinks are included; you can also enjoy cava, beer, or wine.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable about marine life and the local environment, making the trip educational.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: A designated bay offers a chance to cool off and snorkel in warm, clear waters.

An Up-Close Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Group Size

The adventure kicks off at Roulette Charters, docked at Puerto Colón, with meeting instructions clear—just arrive at dock No. 5 about ten minutes early. The boat, named Roulette, is welcoming and well-maintained. The group size is kept intentionally small—limited to 10 passengers—which many reviews highlight as a major perk, fostering a relaxed, personal atmosphere.

This small group setup allows you to sit comfortably on deck, chat with the crew, and get close to wildlife without the chaos of larger tours. It’s clear from reviews that this intimacy enhances the overall experience, with many travelers noting how much they appreciated the chance for a more personal connection.

The Itinerary & Wildlife Watching

The main goal of this tour is wildlife spotting—and here’s where the crew’s expertise shines. The guides, including Salvador, a marine enthusiast, and other crew members, have extensive knowledge about the marine ecosystem, which adds depth to the trip.

You’ll sail along Tenerife’s south coast, with chances to see pilot whales, dolphins, and even turtles, all in their natural habitat. Reviewers often mention that the crew works hard to seek out wildlife, and the sightings are typically plentiful. For instance, one guest recalls a pod of pilot whales coming right up to the boat and interacting directly, making it a truly memorable moment.

Marine Life & Respect for Wildlife

The crew emphasizes respectful wildlife viewing—no chasing or disturbing animals, which many reviews praise as a responsible approach that makes the experience more authentic and less intrusive. This respect for nature is evident in the crew’s patience and their efforts to let animals come to them naturally.

Snorkeling & Water Activities

Once wildlife viewing winds down or if you’re eager to get in the water, the boat stops at a beautiful bay for snorkeling. The trip provides snorkeling gear, so you can float in warm, clear waters, explore marine life, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Some guests mention that the snorkeling spot has caves to explore, adding a little extra adventure.

Food, Drinks, & Comfort

Onboard, you’re treated to snacks and desserts—not just the usual chips but thoughtfully prepared sandwiches and sweet treats, according to reviews. Yani, the crew member, is often praised for her attentive service, ensuring everyone is well-fed and comfortable.

Drinks are plentiful—mineral water, soft drinks, and alcohol options like cava, beer, and wine are included. The reviews also highlight that the crew keeps drinks flowing throughout, making it easy to relax and toast to a successful day at sea.

The boat itself offers comfort with deck mats for lounging, three double cabins for resting, and two bathrooms, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience, even for those who prefer to relax in shade or sun.

Duration & Value

The three-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see wildlife, enjoy snorkeling, and have a snack, but short enough to keep everyone engaged and not overly tired. At $70 per person, given the quality of wildlife sightings, expert guides, small group intimacy, and included food and drinks, it’s a strong value. Many reviewers agree that the experience exceeds expectations for the price, especially considering the personalized service and expert knowledge.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailboat experience is ideal for travelers craving an authentic connection with nature, and who prefer smaller, more personal tours over large, touristy excursions. It’s perfect if you’re interested in marine life, want to learn from passionate guides, and enjoy a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and swim.

Families, couples, and solo travelers all find value here, especially if wildlife and responsible tourism matter to you. Those with some sailing experience or comfortable with boat trips will likely enjoy it more, although the crew’s friendly approach makes it accessible to most.

Final thoughts

This Tenerife sailboat tour offers a well-rounded mix of wildlife encounters, relaxation, and good food—all aboard a cozy, intimate vessel. The emphasis on respectful wildlife watching makes it stand out, coupled with the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with stories and insights.

You’ll leave feeling you’ve gotten a genuine taste of Tenerife’s marine environment, with plenty of memorable sights—whales, dolphins, and turtles—enhanced by a friendly crew and a relaxed atmosphere.

In summary, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a smaller, more personal adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and comfort without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable half-day out on the ocean, this trip delivers on all fronts.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the dock in Puerto Colón. Make sure to arrive at dock No. 5 about ten minutes before departure.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

How many people are on each trip?
The boat is limited to 10 passengers, ensuring a small, personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and possibly a light jacket if you’re sensitive to wind or cooler conditions at sea.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the tour provides snacks, desserts, mineral water, soft drinks, and alcohol options like cava, beer, or wine.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is provided, and there’s a designated bay for swimming and exploring marine life.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately three hours, leaving plenty of time for wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Most guests see pilot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Some even report encounters with flying fish or seabirds.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the small group size and engaging guides make it suitable for families, especially those interested in marine life and nature.

To sum it up, this sailboat whale watching, snorkeling, and food tour combines the best of Tenerife’s marine environment with a friendly, knowledgeable crew. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic, and educational experience, all at a reasonable price. Expect stunning wildlife sightings, comfortable amenities, and a memorable day at sea.