Snorkeling excursion in the Rayas and Turtles Zone

Taking a snorkeling trip in Tenerife’s Rayas and Turtles Zone offers a unique chance to observe some of the island’s most captivating marine creatures. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on ten reviews, is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning underwater scenery, and the chance to swim alongside green turtles and rays. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, this excursion promises memorable moments in the water with expert supervision.

One of the standout features of this experience is the dedication of the guides, especially Paco, who is singled out for his knowledge and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. The tour’s moderate length of about 1 hour and 30 minutes makes it accessible for most travelers without feeling rushed. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, as the ocean’s creatures are free and unpredictable. Still, with the right expectations, this trip is perfect for those eager to explore Tenerife’s underwater world in an intimate setting.

If you’re someone who loves marine life, appreciates scenic views, and enjoys guided adventures, this snorkeling excursion could be an ideal choice. It’s particularly well-suited for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a hassle-free, educational encounter with nature. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour stand out and how it might fit into your Tenerife adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Chance to swim with green turtles, rays, and other sea creatures, though sightings are not 100% guaranteed.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Paco provide educational, engaging, and approachable instruction, making the experience easier for all skill levels.
• Beautiful Locations: The tour departs from either Marina del Sur or Abades, both offering scenic and easily accessible launch points.
• Group Size: Small groups (up to 10), which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Value for Money: At around $63 per person, the experience offers a meaningful glimpse into Tenerife’s marine life, especially considering the guide’s expertise.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, making it convenient to plan or reschedule.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

The excursion kicks off from a conveniently located meeting point—either Marina del Sur or Abades—depending on sea conditions. Both locations are accessible and offer a picturesque backdrop for your aquatic adventure. The tour is operated by Apnea Academy West Europe, a reputable provider known for quality marine excursions.

Once on board, you’ll be taken to specially selected snorkeling spots where visibility and underwater beauty shine. The guides, including the notably knowledgeable Paco, will give you a briefing on safety and what marine life you might see, emphasizing that while sightings of turtles and rays are common, they cannot be guaranteed because these animals roam freely.

The snorkeling itself generally lasts about an hour and a half, during which you’ll be accompanied by your guide at all times. The tour is designed to be suitable for all ages and skill levels, from kids as young as 9 to adults up to 50+. The small group size ensures everyone gets attention and can ask questions, making the experience more educational and fun.

After the swim, you’ll return to the starting point, often with plenty of time to relax, take photos, or explore the nearby surroundings. The entire experience is about balancing adventure with comfort—no rushing, no overwhelming crowds, just a genuine chance to connect with the ocean.

The Marine Life: What You’ll Really See and Why It Matters

The highlight of this tour is the opportunity to view green turtles, rays, and other marine species up close. Jeremy_R, a recent participant, noted, “Paco was very knowledgeable and took the time to explain things to all in our group of eight,” which adds to the educational value and enhances the overall enjoyment.

While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the tour’s reputation for successful encounters suggests that in good conditions, you’ll likely see a family of green turtles gracefully gliding through the water. Many reviews mention how stunning the underwater scenery is, with vibrant marine life and clear water providing excellent visibility for photography or simply soaking in the sights.

Rays add a dynamic element to the experience. If you’re lucky, you’ll see different types of rays flashing beneath you, adding movement and color to your underwater panorama. The guides are vigilant about respecting the animals’ space, so you won’t feel intrusive, just fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time.

The Value of Guided Snorkeling in Tenerife

For just over $60, this tour provides more than just a swim—it’s an educational experience led by guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. Paco’s approach, as highlighted in reviews, makes learning about marine species accessible and engaging, which enriches the whole trip.

The smaller group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience. It’s a stark contrast to larger, more commercial tours that can feel impersonal and rushed. Here, you’re more likely to receive tailored guidance, helping beginners feel comfortable and offering expert tips for those already familiar with snorkeling.

In terms of value, consider that the price includes all the necessary equipment, guidance, and transport to the snorkeling sites. The flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to plan without stress—if weather conditions aren’t suitable or if your plans change, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Practical Details That Matter

Meeting Points & Departure: The tour departs from two key spots—Av. de Ocira, 23, Abades or Marina del Sur—with the choice depending on sea conditions. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your schedule or location preferences. Transportation is straightforward, with the meeting point near public transit options, making it accessible for most travelers.

Duration & Group Size: The 1.5-hour activity is a perfect length for a quick yet fulfilling marine adventure. The small group size (up to 10) ensures intimacy and safety, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with snorkeling.

What to Bring & Wear: While not explicitly mentioned, travelers should be prepared with swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case. The tour provides all necessary snorkeling gear, so no need to rent equipment separately.

Weather & Cancellation: The activity is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling offered if canceled due to poor conditions. Booking in advance (average 18 days ahead) ensures you secure your spot during peak times.

Review Snippets: Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Jeremy_R’s review encapsulates the general sentiment: “You don’t want to miss this one.” He appreciated Paco’s efforts to make the trip accessible to all ages and skill levels, emphasizing the beauty of the day. Another reviewer highlighted the knowledgeability of the guides, making the experience both fun and educational.

The common thread is that this snorkeling tour isn’t just about seeing marine life; it’s about feeling confident, learning interesting facts, and enjoying Tenerife’s stunning ocean scenery in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This snorkeling excursion is ideal for families seeking safe, guided marine encounters, beginners eager to try snorkeling with expert supervision, and adventurers looking for a quick but meaningful underwater experience. Nature lovers who appreciate scenic views and wildlife enthusiasts will also find it rewarding.

It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in a small-group experience that balances education and fun, with plenty of opportunities for photos and memorable moments. If your goal is to see turtles or rays in their natural habitat without the fuss of a large tour, this is a smart choice.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling tour in Tenerife’s Rayas and Turtles Zone offers a well-balanced mix of education, adventure, and scenic beauty. For around $63, you gain not just a swim but a chance to learn about and observe some of the island’s most enchanting marine creatures. The guides’ passion and knowledge turn what could be a simple activity into an engaging experience that many travelers remember fondly.

Ideal for families, beginners, or anyone craving an authentic underwater encounter, this tour provides great value for money, with flexible options and a small-group setting that enhances the personal touch. While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the overall experience—marked by stunning scenery, expert guidance, and the chance to see turtles and rays—is truly worthwhile.

Whether you’re in Tenerife for a short visit or a longer stay, this excursion deserves a spot on your list if you want a memorable, educational, and fun underwater adventure.

FAQ

Is this snorkeling tour suitable for children? Yes, the tour caters to all ages, with a minimum age of 9, making it suitable for families with children who can swim and are comfortable in the water.

How long does the tour last? The snorkeling activity itself lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the boat ride to the snorkeling spots.

Do I need to bring my own equipment? No, all snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour, so you just need to bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.

Where does the tour depart from? Depending on sea conditions, it departs from either Marina del Sur or Abades, both easily accessible via public transport.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad? Yes, there’s a full refund or reschedule option if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, provided you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How many people are in each group? The maximum group size is 10 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is this experience suitable for non-swimmers? While it’s primarily for snorkelers, beginners with some comfort in water can enjoy it, especially with the guidance of trained guides. However, confident swimming is recommended for safety reasons.