Abades: Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip

Trying to decide which excursion will give you the best bang for your buck while offering genuine, memorable moments in Tenerife? The Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip by Apnea Academy WE aquatic experiences is a solid contender. This roughly 1.5-hour adventure takes you out to the coast, where you might encounter green sea turtles, rays, and the volcanic underwater landscape that makes Tenerife such a special place to explore.

What we love about this tour is the combination of knowledgeable guidance and the chance to see marine creatures in their natural habitat—without the crowds or the fuss of large-group boat trips. However, being dependent on weather conditions and animal sightings means there’s a small chance you might not see turtles or rays, though the guides do their best to make sure you do.

This tour is perfect if you’re after an authentic, relaxed snorkeling experience with a focus on education and close encounters. It’s especially suitable for beginners or those with limited snorkeling experience, thanks to the attentive guides and straightforward equipment setup. If you’re after a fast-paced, adrenaline-filled adventure, this might not be the ideal fit, but for a meaningful connection with nature, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Short & Sweet: Just 1.5 hours, ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Expert Guides: Marine biologists accompany you, sharing insights about the marine ecosystem.
• Wildlife Encounters: Potential to swim alongside green turtles and rays, though sightings are not guaranteed.
• Flexibility on Departure Points: Depending on sea conditions, departures are from Abades Beach, Alcalá Beach, or Marina del Sur.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Snorkeling gear is provided; just bring your swimwear and towel.

The Experience: What to Expect Step-by-Step

Starting Points and Departure

Depending on the sea conditions on the day of your tour, you’ll meet in front of the Magilu bar at one of three locations: Abades Beach, Alcalá Beach, or Marina del Sur (Puerto de Las Galletas). This flexibility is a bonus, as it means the tour adapts to the best weather and sea conditions, maximizing your chances of seeing marine life.

Setting Out on the Water

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, during which you’ll be in the water most of the time, guided by a marine biologist who makes the experience both fun and educational. You’ll don your provided snorkeling gear, which includes mask, snorkel, and fins—everything you need for a safe and comfortable time underwater.

The Marine Environment

The snorkeling spots are chosen for their volcanic underwater landscape, which adds visual interest beyond the marine creatures. The terrain can be surprisingly dramatic, with rocky outcrops and colorful patches of coral or seaweed. These features make the underwater scenery more engaging and photogenic.

Encounters with Turtles and Rays

While sightings cannot be guaranteed, the guides do their utmost to take you to areas where a family of green sea turtles and various rays are known to frequent. One reviewer mentioned that their guide Paco was particularly attentive, explaining the behaviors and habitats of the creatures, which made the experience richer for beginners.

What You Might Feel

Many visitors describe feeling a sense of awe as they glide through the water, surrounded by the sounds of the sea and the chance to observe animals in their natural environment. The tour is designed to be accessible, so even those with limited snorkeling experience, like the reviewer who had never snorkeled before, found it easy and enjoyable thanks to the guide’s clear instructions.

End of Tour

The activity concludes back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward. Because the tour is small, you’ll likely have time for a quick chat with your guide or some photos before heading off.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Knowledgeable Guides

The value of having a marine biologist guide cannot be overstated. As one reviewer pointed out, Paco was super attentive, providing beginner-friendly explanations and sharing interesting facts about the sea, the island, and its creatures. This makes the experience not just fun, but educational.

Authentic Marine Encounters

Unlike large boat tours, this snorkeling trip offers a more intimate look at Tenerife’s native marine life. The chance to swim with turtles and rays in their natural habitat makes for a memorable experience, especially for wildlife lovers.

Underwater Landscape

The volcanic terrain under the water adds a visual dimension that many snorkelers find captivating. The scenery isn’t just about animals; the underwater topography itself is a highlight, offering varied textures and formations to explore.

Flexibility and Small Group Size

Having a small group (up to 10 people) means you get more personalized attention, which can be particularly comforting for beginners. Plus, the flexibility in departure points improves the chances of a successful outing, tailored to the sea conditions that day.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $63 per person, this tour offers good value for a guided marine experience. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and expert guides adds a lot to the experience, especially given the educational component. If you’re looking for a short, meaningful encounter with Tenerife’s marine life without the expense of a full day trip or specialized scuba diving, this is a well-priced option.

While there’s no guarantee you’ll spot turtles or rays, the guides’ efforts and the small group setting make it a worthwhile gamble. The chance to learn about the marine ecosystem while swimming in crystal-clear waters is a real plus.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour suits travelers who:

• Want an authentic aquatic experience without heavy logistics
• Are comfortable in the water, or at least willing to try snorkeling
• Appreciate knowledgeable guides and educational insights
• Seek a small-group, relaxed outing rather than large, commercialized tours
• Are interested in local marine wildlife, especially turtles and rays

It’s not ideal for children under 4 or those uncomfortable swimming in open water, but most others will find this a rewarding activity.

The Sum Up

The Abades: Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip offers a gentle and educational way to connect with Tenerife’s vibrant marine environment. With expert guidance, small-group intimacy, and the possibility of seeing turtles and rays in their natural habitat, this tour stands out as a memorable and worthwhile activity for nature lovers and curious snorkelers alike.

If you’re after a straightforward, authentic aquatic adventure that balances fun with learning, you’ll find this tour delivers on both fronts. It’s especially perfect if you’re eager to discover marine wildlife with minimal fuss and maximum personal attention.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviewers, including those with no snorkeling experience, found the guide Paco very attentive and clear, making the activity accessible for beginners.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring swimwear and a towel. The snorkeling equipment is included, so no need to worry about gear.

Can I see turtles and rays on this tour?
While sightings are not guaranteed because the animals are wild and free, the guides take you to the best spots where these creatures are usually seen.

Where does the tour depart from?
Depending on sea conditions, it departs from Abades Beach, Alcalá Beach, or Marina del Sur (Puerto de Las Galletas).

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 1.5 hours, mostly spent in the water.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour is limited to 10 participants, making it more intimate and personalized.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, mainly due to the water activity involved.

Do I need to cancel in advance?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What language is the guide speaking?
The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish, catering to a diverse group.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, departures depend on sea conditions, but the flexible departure points help optimize your chances of a good experience.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $63 per person, offering good value given the guided experience and equipment provided.

This snorkeling trip combines the charm of Tenerife’s volcanic waters with the thrill of spotting sea turtles and rays. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious newcomer, you’ll appreciate the expertise of your guides and the natural beauty you’ll encounter.