Snorkelling safari in a turtle area

Travelers curious about exploring Tenerife’s underwater world often seek out experiences that are both accessible and memorable. The Snorkelling Safari in a Turtle Area offers a chance to swim alongside sea turtles and vibrant marine life without the need for extensive equipment or diving certifications. This tour, priced at around $52.06 per person, stands out for its convenience, guided expertise, and small-group atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned explorer, this adventure promises a relaxed yet engaging way to connect with the ocean.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is that snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and fins are included—saving you the hassle and expense of organizing your own equipment. The use of a fast rigid inflatable boat (RIB) means you’ll reach the best snorkeling spots swiftly, giving you more time in the water. However, a word of caution: some reviews indicate that the experience can vary depending on conditions and guides, particularly if you’re looking for a tour with a more guided or instructional focus. This tour is ideal for those who value small-group intimacy, hassle-free logistics, and the chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.

If you’re someone who enjoys a straightforward, well-organized outing with a focus on marine wildlife, this snorkeling safari could be a great fit. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of larger tours and prefer a more intimate experience in the water. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour tick—its itinerary, features, reviews, and practical details—to help you decide if it’s right for your Tenerife trip.

Key Points

• All-in-one package: Snorkeling gear, wetsuits, fins, and masks included, saving time and money.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides provide tips and ensure safety while hunting for sea turtles.
• Small-group atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, making it more personal and less crowded.
• Fast transit to sites: Rigid inflatable boat gets you to the best snorkeling areas quickly.
• Potential variability: Experience may depend on weather, sea conditions, and guide attentiveness.
• Good value: At around $52, it offers a solid balance of cost and memorable marine encounters.

What to Expect on the Snorkelling Safari

The adventure begins at the meeting point on Av. de Colón in Costa Adeje, a location easily accessible by public transportation or car (though parking fees are not included). Once everyone gathers, you’ll board a fast rib boat, which whisks you away to the designated snorkeling zone. The boat ride itself is part of the fun—speedy, exciting, and offering great views of the coast as you go.

The main highlight of the tour is the chance to snorkel in areas where sea turtles have been seen before. As you float in the water, you’ll be equipped with wetsuits, fins, masks, and snorkeling gear—all included in the price. Guides are typically multilingual and knowledgeable, offering tips on the best snorkeling spots, marine life identification, and safety instructions.

The marine environment here is lively, with an abundant variety of fish and sea creatures. Reviewers have noted that turtles are often spotted, which adds a special element to the trip. Some guests mention that the guides are attentive and provide helpful instructions, making even beginners feel comfortable. One reviewer shared, “The guides really knew their stuff and made sure everyone was safe and enjoying themselves,” highlighting the professionalism of the team.

The tour lasts around two hours, making it a perfect morning or afternoon activity. After snorkeling, you’ll return to the meeting point, having experienced a quick yet deep encounter with Tenerife’s underwater treasures.

The Ride Out: From Costa Adeje to Marine Hotspots

The boat ride is a key part of the experience. Traveling by RIB offers a speedy and smooth journey to the best snorkel sites—saving you from lengthy boat trips. It also allows the guides to reach areas where marine life tends to gather, increasing your chances of spotting turtles and schools of colorful fish.

Some reviewers have mentioned that the guides are friendly and professional. One shared, “The guide was super helpful, and the boat ride was a lot of fun,” indicating that the transport itself adds to the overall enjoyment. The boat is designed for small groups (up to 10 people), which keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention.

The Marine Environment and Wildlife Encounters

While the tour is primarily about snorkeling in a turtle area, the marine environment here offers much more. Expect to see various fish, possibly rays, and other sea creatures that thrive in Tenerife’s coastal waters. The star of the show, however, is the chance to see sea turtles, which are frequently observed in this zone.

One reviewer noted that the marine life is abundant, and the guides often spot turtles while you’re in the water. The tours are designed to maximize encounters with these gentle creatures, although there’s no guarantee every trip will feature a turtle sighting. Still, the possibility of observing them in their natural habitat makes this tour particularly special.

The Equipment and Comfort

All snorkeling equipment, including wetsuits, fins, masks, and snorkels, are included, which is a huge plus. This means you don’t have to worry about bringing or renting gear elsewhere. The wetsuits are generally well-fitted and appropriate for Tenerife’s water temperatures, providing comfort for most participants.

The small-group setting ensures that everyone gets enough space in the water and personalized tips from the guides. For those worried about safety or comfort, this tour’s focus on providing gear and guidance makes it accessible to all skill levels.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour starts at Av. de Colón in Costa Adeje, with most travelers booking about 17 days in advance—this suggests decent demand and the need for early planning. The duration is approximately two hours, giving enough time for the boat ride and snorkeling without feeling rushed.

The tour includes:
– All taxes, fees, and handling charges
– Local taxes
– Use of snorkeling equipment
– Insurance

Excluded from the price:
– Parking fees
– Food and drinks
– Lunch

You’ll want to wear swimwear and bring a towel and sunscreen. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants being able to join. The maximum group size of 10 fosters a more relaxed experience and enables guides to give plenty of individual attention.

Review Highlights: What Travelers Say

While the majority of reviews are positive, some comments point out variability. One reviewer, Annika_N, rated her experience as disappointing, citing that the tour description was misleading and that guides seemed distracted at times. She mentioned, “You’re on your own in the deep sea as the guides are diving with other customers.” This highlights the importance of managing expectations and understanding that wildlife sightings and guide attentiveness can vary.

Conversely, other reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and good value. They appreciated the convenience of included gear and the small-group setting, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment of the experience.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price point of just over $50, this snorkeling safari offers competitive value—especially given that equipment is included, and the boat ride is quick and fun. The potential to see sea turtles makes it a highlight, though the experience depends on weather, sea conditions, and luck.

For travelers who prioritize ease, safety, and small-group intimacy, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, straightforward introduction to Tenerife’s marine life without the complexities of arranging gear or long boat rides. If you’re seeking a family-friendly, affordable way to snorkel in the company of turtles, it’s worth considering.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a no-fuss, small-group snorkeling adventure. It suits beginners eager to see marine life, as equipment and guidance are provided. Nature lovers or those interested in a quick, memorable encounter with sea turtles will find this especially appealing.

However, if you’re after a tour with more guided instruction or guaranteed wildlife sightings, you might want to explore other options. The variability noted in reviews suggests that patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

Final Thoughts

This Snorkelling Safari in a Turtle Area offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Tenerife’s ocean life. Its strengths lie in included gear, quick boat transfer, and the chance to see sea turtles in their natural environment, all within a small-group setting that enhances comfort.

For those who value simplicity and affordability, and are eager to explore Tenerife’s underwater world without too much fuss, it’s a solid choice. The experience isn’t perfect—weather and wildlife sightings can vary—but the overall package delivers good value and fun in equal measure.

If you’re visiting Tenerife and want a relaxed, family-friendly activity that gets you swimming with marine life, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember, patience is key, and a smile from the guide can elevate an already enjoyable day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included, along with snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, fins, masks, and insurance.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Av. de Colón in Costa Adeje, Tenerife.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, including the boat ride and snorkeling time.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes all gear and guidance, making it accessible for first-timers, though experience levels can vary.

What should I wear?
Swimwear is recommended; bring a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera.

Are marine animals guaranteed to be seen?
No, sightings depend on weather, sea conditions, and wildlife activity; however, sea turtles are frequently observed.

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

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included; you should bring your own if desired.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is transport provided?
No, the meeting point is at the specified location; transport is not included.

In summary, this snorkeling safari offers a well-balanced mix of convenience, marine encounters, and small-group intimacy at an attractive price point. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, family-friendly outing with the chance of swimming alongside Tenerife’s famed sea turtles and vibrant fish.