Teno to Masca: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks

If you’re visiting Tenerife and craving a blend of spectacular scenery, marine life encounters, and a relaxing boat ride, this Teno to Masca boat trip might be just what you’re looking for. Offering a two-hour cruise along some of the island’s most iconic coastal sights, including the towering Los Gigantes cliffs and the charming village of Masca, it promises a memorable slice of ocean adventure. With snorkeling, a complimentary drink, and the guidance of an experienced skipper, this tour balances fun, discovery, and value.

What we love about this experience is how intimate it feels—thanks to the small group size of only 12 participants, you get plenty of space to ask questions and really soak in the views. Plus, the fact that it includes goggles for snorkeling and a free drink makes it a straightforward, all-in-one option. That said, one consideration is that the starting point at Punta de Teno requires some planning, as public transport is the only way to reach it. If you’re prepared for a short bus ride from Buenavista del Norte, though, it’s not a dealbreaker.

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy coastal scenery, marine encounters, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer of Tenerife, this tour offers a lovely way to see some of the island’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of organizing your own boat or transport.

Key Points

• Small group size of up to 12 people ensures a more personal and engaging experience.
• Includes snorkeling goggles and a free drink, adding extra value.
• Stunning coastal views of Los Gigantes cliffs and Masca beach.
• Snorkeling opportunity in crystal-clear waters with chances to see marine fauna like sea turtles and rays.
• Accessible starting point requires taking a bus from Buenavista del Norte.
• Two-hour duration offers a relaxed yet comprehensive tour without feeling rushed.

The Experience in Detail

How the tour works

We’re told that the journey begins at Punta de Teno, a scenic spot with limited access by private vehicle, making the public bus an essential part of the experience. The bus from Buenavista del Norte departs every hour, so planning ahead is crucial. Once at Punta de Teno, you’ll check in and wait for the boat, which is a cozy vessel accommodating a maximum of 12 guests—perfect for a more intimate outing.

The boat departs with a friendly and knowledgeable skipper, often giving insightful commentary about the coastline, the cliffs of Los Gigantes, and local marine life. Expect a two-hour cruise that zigzags along Tenerife’s rugged coast, passing by quiet bays and natural coves. The boat’s route is designed to capture the best views and include stops for swimming and snorkeling.

The stops and highlights

Stop 1: Punta de Teno
This serves as the starting point, where passengers gather, take photos, and enjoy the scenery before setting sail. The landscape here is dramatic, with jagged cliffs and the promise of marine adventures ahead.

Stop 2: Teno
A photo stop and sightseeing opportunity. Here, you can admire the nearby coastline, which is often praised for its untouched beauty and the way the cliffs tumble into the sea. The guide typically shares fascinating stories about the area’s formation and ecological significance.

Stop 3: Masca
This is the highlight for many. The boat anchors in a bay near Masca, giving you a chance to swim, snorkel, and explore the surroundings. Reviewers, like Dennis, mention how their guide Nico added a humorous touch and shared a wealth of knowledge about the formation of Los Gigantes and the ocean life. The free time here allows for photos, a quick walk in the village, or just relaxing in the sun.

Stop 4: Return to Punta de Teno
After the snorkeling session, you’ll set sail back, with a refreshing drink in hand—water, soft drink, or beer, depending on your preference. The experience ends where it began, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the stunning coastline and marine fauna seen along the way.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with goggles provided. Given Tenerife’s diverse marine environment, you might spot sea turtles, manta rays, octopus, and other marine creatures. The reviews highlight how enjoyable and memorable the snorkeling was, with travelers appreciating the opportunity to get close to the island’s rich marine ecosystem.

Authentic marine encounters

The marine fauna around Tenerife is notable for its variety, and snorkelers often feel lucky to see such creatures in their natural habitat. The guide’s expertise enhances this experience, pointing out different species and sharing interesting facts. The calm waters and good visibility make snorkeling accessible even for beginners.

The Value and Practicalities

At $40 per person for a two-hour boat trip, this experience offers solid value, especially considering the included snorkeling goggles and free drinks. The small group size means more personal attention from the skipper, often leading to more engaging stories and answers to questions.

It’s important to remember that transportation to Punta de Teno is not included, so travelers should plan to arrive early by bus from Buenavista del Norte. The bus fare is just one euro, payable in cash or card, and runs hourly year-round. The fact that the tour provides insurance coverage and adheres to environmental and safety standards** adds peace of mind.

The tour’s duration of 2 hours strikes a good balance — enough time to enjoy the scenery and marine activities without feeling overly long or rushed. For those traveling with children, the boat’s limited capacity and the short duration make it a manageable outing.

What to bring

Since Punta de Teno is remote with no nearby shops, bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towels, and snacks. The tour does not allow alcohol, fishing, or nudity, ensuring a family-friendly environment.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One reviewer highlights how the small boat allows more space for questions, making the experience more interactive. Their guide Nico’s humor and knowledge made a lasting impression, turning the trip into a memorable adventure. Another reviewer praises the “impressive” route and good explanations from the helmsman, emphasizing the quality of the guidance.

Such feedback indicates that the tour’s success hinges on the expertise and friendliness of the crew, and the breathtaking scenery that guarantees photo-worthy moments.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip is ideal for those who want an easy, scenic escape that combines coastal views, marine life, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a smaller, more personal experience on the water. If you enjoy snorkeling, natural beauty, and learning about local marine ecosystems, this tour will meet or exceed expectations.

It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of planning to reach Punta de Teno via bus, as the experience itself is straightforward and very well-organized.

Final thoughts

This boat trip from Punta de Teno to Masca offers an impressive blend of scenic beauty, marine activity, and relaxed companionship. The small group setting, combined with knowledgeable guides like Nico and the chance to snorkel in clear waters, makes it a genuine highlight for many visitors.

While the logistics of getting to Punta de Teno require some planning, the payoff is a peaceful, engaging, and memorable outing that showcases some of Tenerife’s most iconic coastal scenery. The inclusion of drinks and snorkeling gear at this price point emphasizes its value, especially for those eager to combine sightseeing with marine encounters.

If you’re after a manageable, scenic boat tour that lets you enjoy Tenerife’s coast without the crowds or complexity of larger excursions, this is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?
No, goggles are provided as part of the tour. You might want to bring your own mask or fins if you prefer, but the included goggles are sufficient for most.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, the tour provides a complimentary soft drink, water, or beer during the trip. Outside drinks are not allowed on board.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear and a beach towel for the snorkeling stop. A hat and sunscreen are recommended for sun protection during the cruise.

Is transportation to Punta de Teno included?
No, you have to get there via bus from Buenavista del Norte, which departs hourly. The bus fare is just one euro.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are welcome and can join for free if they are under the age limit, but you should specify this when booking to ensure space.

What happens if it rains or the seas are rough?
Weather conditions might lead to schedule changes or cancellations. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so check the forecast before heading out.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is approximately 2 hours, including cruising, snorkeling, and stops. The actual boat ride is shorter, around that time frame.

In summary, this Teno to Masca boat trip combines scenic coastal views, marine adventure, and a personal touch from friendly guides—perfect for travelers wanting a manageable yet memorable outdoor experience in Tenerife.