Tenerife: Whales and Snorkeling Tour on a Luxury Yacht

Imagine gliding through calm, turquoise waters aboard a sleek, spacious yacht, with the chance to spot playful dolphins and majestic whales in their natural habitat. This three-hour luxury boat tour in Tenerife promises a blend of wildlife encounters, coastal scenery, and relaxation, all in an intimate setting that feels more like a private charter than a crowded cruise.

What we really love about this experience is how personalized and relaxed it feels—small groups (up to 10 people) mean fewer crowds and more space to lounge or explore. Plus, the combination of marine life viewing, snorkeling, and delicious local snacks and unlimited drinks makes for a truly well-rounded outing. One thing to keep in mind: the tour depends heavily on weather conditions; if the sea’s choppy or the sky isn’t cooperating, the trip might get canceled, so it’s worth checking the forecast.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, authentic way to enjoy Tenerife’s stunning coastline, wildlife, and a bit of luxury. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good food and drink, and who seek a more tranquil, less touristy vibe than the large, bustling boat trips.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances comfort and intimacy.
• Wildlife sightings such as whales and dolphins are a highlight.
• Gourmet snacks and unlimited drinks elevate the experience.
• Snorkeling in clear waters offers a close-up view of marine life.
• Professional crew provides knowledge and personalized service.
• Favorable weather is essential for the trip to go ahead.

An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Luxury Yacht Tour

This 3-hour tour offered by Royal Ocean is crafted for those who want a relaxing yet adventurous day on the water. Starting from the Marina del Sur, the experience kicks off with a pickup option from the nearby X-Sur shopping center in Costa Adeje, making logistics straightforward. You’ll board a modern yacht designed for comfort with plenty of space to lounge, chat, or sunbathe—whether upstairs on the sun deck or downstairs in shaded areas.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour’s itinerary is a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, wildlife encounters, and activities like snorkeling and tasting local goodies. It begins with a short drive (around 25 minutes) to the harbor, where you’ll receive a safety briefing before setting sail.

First stop: A scenic cruise along the south coast, where you’ll have your first chance to admire the dramatic cliffs, charming harbors, and caves that line Tenerife’s shoreline. This section is ideal for photos and simply soaking in the views. Reviewers mention the “incredible coastal scenery” and “panoramic views” that make this part of the journey memorable.

Whale and dolphin watching: The main highlight, of course, is spotting marine life. Captain Louis and crew members like Michael are lauded for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making this part both informative and exciting. Several reviewers mention seeing pods of pilot whales and dolphins playing near the boat—sometimes just meters away. One reviewer even describes the whales as “unbelievable” and “close up”, emphasizing how special it feels to observe these creatures in the wild.

Snorkeling stop: The tour includes an option for swimming and snorkeling in a secluded bay with clear waters, vibrant fish, and calm conditions. Reviewers frequently mention how much they enjoyed this part—“magnificent” and “a great experience” are common descriptions. The snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to jump in without extra hassle.

Culinary delights and drinks: Throughout the trip, guests are pampered with delicious tapas, cured meats, cheeses, Spanish omelette, fruit, and nuts. The drinks selection is extensive—beer, wine, cava, and unlimited soft drinks—which are kept coming by attentive crew members like Michael and Sergio. Several reviews highlight the “great food” and “excellent drinks” as adding to the luxury feel.

The Highlights and Why They Matter

• Intimate group setting: With a maximum of 10 guests, you get a more personalized experience, allowing for relaxed conversations with the crew and fellow travelers. Reviewers mention how the crew “takes care of everyone” and are “knowledgeable about marine life”.

• Wildlife encounters: The chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment is a significant draw. Many guests are thrilled to spot multiple whales and dolphins, often within a few meters of the boat, making for fantastic photo opportunities and memories.

• Gourmet snacks and unlimited drinks: The onboard food is more than just simple snacks; reviewers frequently mention “delicious tapas” and “great selection of drinks” that make the trip feel more luxurious. Cava and wine are available throughout, adding a celebratory touch.

• Snorkeling in calm waters: The chance to swim in a quiet bay with colorful fish is an unexpected bonus that many find highly enjoyable. The waters are described as crystal-clear, and the experience adds a fun, active element to the trip.

• Scenic coastlines: Seeing Tenerife’s cliffs, caves, and harbors from the water offers a perspective that land-based excursions can’t match. Several reviewers say the views “took their breath away” and that the cruise was “worthevery penny”.

The Practical Aspects

The tour lasts roughly three hours, which is well-suited for travelers who want a substantial experience without taking up an entire day. The pickup and dropoff service from the nearby shopping center simplifies logistics, although note that hotel pickup isn’t included.

Pricing at $91 per person is quite competitive considering the inclusions: the luxury yacht, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the crew’s expertise. Many reviewers feel that the value exceeds the cost, especially given the personal attention and quality of the food.

Weather conditions can impact the trip, as all marine excursions are subject to favorable sea and weather conditions. Several guests mention that a rough day can lead to cancellations or choppy seas, so it’s best to check the forecast and consider seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive. Several reviews advise taking anti-sickness tablets especially if the forecast predicts stronger waves.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the basics, the real strength of this yacht trip lies in the combination of wildlife, scenery, and luxury. The crew’s detailed knowledge about marine life enriches the experience—they’re eager to share insights, and this makes the whale and dolphin sightings even more meaningful.

Guests consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Michael, Louis, and Sergio are noted for their caring attitude, making sure everyone feels comfortable and included. The small group size allows for more relaxed interactions and the ability to move freely around the boat.

The food and drinks are frequently highlighted as being of a higher standard than typical boat fare. The tapas platter, coupled with unlimited drinks, creates an atmosphere of indulgence without breaking the bank.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who appreciate luxury and comfort in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see whales and dolphins without the crowds of larger tour boats, and who enjoy good food and drinks while taking in stunning coastal views.

It’s also a wonderful choice for romantic couples, small groups of friends, or families seeking a tranquil day at sea. While it’s not designed for those prone to seasickness, many guests say a preventative tablet can make the ride smoother.

If you’re after an authentic, intimate, and well-organized marine adventure—this tour checks all those boxes, blending wildlife, scenery, and high-quality hospitality seamlessly.

The Bottom Line

This Tenerife whale and snorkeling tour offers excellent value for money considering the luxurious yacht, personalized service, and inclusive gourmet snacks and drinks. The small group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, making for a more memorable, relaxed experience.

The chance to see whales and dolphins up close in their natural environment, combined with the opportunity to snorkel in clear, peaceful waters, will appeal to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The knowledgeable crew and attentive service turn what could be a simple boat trip into a memorable day of discovery and indulgence.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, authentic, and wildlife-focused outing in Tenerife, this tour is a solid choice—popular for good reason, and many reviewers say it’s one of their best experiences on the island.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and dropoff from the X-Sur shopping center in Costa Adeje are included in the tour. You’ll be picked up in a beige Mercedes Vito minibus about 40 minutes before the trip starts.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around three hours, offering plenty of time for wildlife sightings, scenic cruising, snorkeling, and enjoying food and drinks.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll have a chance to swim in a calm, clear bay with colorful fish. The snorkeling stop typically lasts about 50 minutes.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring a towel and sunscreen. The boat has plenty of space to relax, but personal items like sunglasses and hats are also advisable.

Is it suitable for families?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness, especially if weather conditions are choppy. Many reviews mention that anti-sickness tablets help.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers the yacht, snacks, drinks (including soft drinks, wine, beer, and cava), snorkeling gear, and the crew’s expertise. Hotel transfers are not included.

What happens if the weather is bad?
All tours depend on favorable weather and sea conditions. If conditions are adverse, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be notified in advance.

In all, this Tenerife yacht tour balances wildlife viewing, luxury, and scenic beauty, making it a top choice for those looking to enjoy the island from the water in style. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful day out, this trip combines the best of what Tenerife’s coast has to offer—small group comfort, stunning scenery, and unforgettable marine encounters.