Tenerife: Shared Yacht Cruise with Champagne and Tapas

Planning a day on the water in Tenerife? This shared yacht cruise offers a luxurious yet affordable way to soak up the island’s stunning coast, enjoy delicious Spanish tapas, and perhaps spot dolphins or whales. Set aboard a comfortable Beneteau Antares 42, this 3-hour journey balances relaxation, adventure, and expert guidance in a small, friendly group.

What we particularly love about this experience is the combination of all-inclusive drinks (hello, champagne!) with the chance to explore the waters on paddleboards and sea scooters. The crew, including guides like Juan, who’s known for his personable attitude and local knowledge, truly make this trip special. A potential drawback? Since it’s a shared tour, it requires a minimum of 4 participants to run, which might mean rescheduling if bookings are low. But if you’re looking for a personalized, intimate experience in a friendly setting, this cruise is perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a taste of luxury.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed day out, love good food and drinks, and enjoy small-group adventures. If ocean life, scenic views, and a bit of paddleboarding sound appealing, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Limited to 10 people for a more personalized vibe.
• All-inclusive drinks: Champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks ensure you’re never thirsty.
• Delicious tapas: Traditional Spanish offerings like Tortilla Española, Jamón, cheese, and fresh fruit.
• Adventure options: Paddleboards and sea scooters for exploring the water and marine life.
• Expert crew: Guides like Juan and Raúl are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops for dolphin watching, snorkeling, swimming, and scenic photo opportunities.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Puerto Colon

The adventure starts at Puerto Colon, a popular marina in Tenerife. The meeting point is straightforward: arrive 15 minutes early at Patalan Nº2, near the gate at the top of the marina. If you choose the pickup option, the crew will come to your hotel reception (if you’re staying nearby), making the start effortless. The departure typically takes place at 10:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day.

The Yacht and Crew

The cruise is aboard a Beneteau Antares 42, a sleek, comfortable vessel that offers enough space for everyone to move around freely. The crew, led by Captain Edouardo and guides like Juan, are experienced and friendly, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Multiple reviews highlight their personable approach, local insights, and attentiveness. For example, Juan’s engaging storytelling and careful wildlife observation (not getting too close to pilot whales) receive high praise, making the experience both educational and respectful of marine life.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise unfolds with two main scenic stops, each offering unique opportunities:

• Stop 1: Tenerife coastline — After setting sail, you’ll enjoy a welcome glass of champagne, easing into the experience. The initial segment includes a guided tour and sightseeing along the coast, giving you time to appreciate Tenerife’s rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and maybe even spot marine animals like dolphins or pilot whales. Reviewers note that the crew is very supportive in wildlife sightings, with one guest mentioning, “We saw dolphins and whales and enjoyed swimming in a cove.”

• Stop 2: La Caleta — This is the main highlight for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The crew provides snorkeling gear, and you can spend around 1.5 hours exploring the calm waters, enjoying the marine life, and catching scenic photos. Reviewers often mention the fun of using paddleboards and sea scooters, with one guest remarking, “The stop for swimming and paddleboarding was lovely.”

Throughout the cruise, guests are served Spanish tapas—including fresh baguettes, Tortilla Española, Jamón, cheese, and fruit. These light bites pair perfectly with the drinks, which include champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks, ensuring everyone stays refreshed. Multiple reviews mention the quality and generous selection of drinks, with one guest noting, “Champagne and nibbles were available all the time.”

Wildlife and Marine Life

Wildlife viewing is a key part of the cruise. Guests report sightings of dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures, especially during the longer sea passages. The crew’s respectful approach — avoiding close proximity to pilot whales — ensures a responsible and memorable wildlife experience. As one reviewer put it, “We saw dolphins and more dolphins than we’ve ever seen before,” adding that guides like Juan and Maria are very knowledgeable about local marine life.

Adventure and Relaxation Balance

One of the best parts of this trip is how it balances relaxation and activity. You can lounge on deck, sip champagne, or indulge in tapas, or you can get active with paddleboarding, sea scooters, or snorkeling. The crew makes sure everyone feels comfortable, providing life jackets and full safety gear.

Group Size and Personal Attention

Since the tour is limited to 10 people, it feels intimate without sacrificing social interaction. Reviewers consistently praise the crew’s attentiveness. For example, “Juan and Raúl couldn’t do more for us,” and “The crew made us feel so welcome and relaxed.” If fewer than four people book, the trip will be rescheduled, but that small-group dynamic really enhances the experience.

Price and Value Analysis

At $96 per person for a 3-hour tour, this experience offers remarkable value. The all-inclusive drinks, quality tapas, and wildlife sightings add up to more than just a boat ride; you’re getting a well-rounded experience that combines luxury, adventure, and cultural enjoyment. Compared to larger, less personal tours, this cruise’s price reflects its intimate nature and high-quality service.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

• Small-group setting means more space and personalized attention.
• All-inclusive drinks and tapas provide a hassle-free experience without extra costs.
• Wildlife watching adds a layer of excitement and connection with nature.
• Flexible activities like paddleboarding and sea scooters are suitable for both beginners and experienced water enthusiasts.
• Expert guides like Juan and Maria enhance the experience with local insights and friendly service.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of luxury. If you enjoy small groups, good food, and the chance to see marine life while relaxing on the water, you’ll be right at home here. Families with children who are comfortable in the water will appreciate the paddleboarding and snorkeling options. Couples seeking a romantic yet casual outing will also find it perfect.

However, those prone to seasickness might want to consider that the cruise involves some time on open water, and the boat may sway depending on conditions. It’s also best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace rather than a high-energy adventure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable in the water and enjoy paddling or snorkeling will love this trip. Just keep in mind that it involves being on a boat for 3 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and sunscreen. Don’t forget your sense of adventure.

What happens if there aren’t enough bookings?
If fewer than 4 people book, the trip will be rescheduled for another day.

Can I book the pickup option?
Yes, if you’re staying nearby, you can opt for pickup at your hotel reception, making the start very easy.

Is the trip suitable for seasick travelers?
It’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness, as the boat may sway.

Are drinks included?
Yes, all drinks—including champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks—are included throughout the trip.

What kind of food is served?
You’ll enjoy Spanish tapas like Tortilla Española, Jamón, cheese, baguettes, and fresh fruit.

Can I use the paddleboards and sea scooters?
Absolutely, these are included and available for guests to explore the waters at their leisure.

How long is the snorkeling and swimming stop?
About 1.5 hours at La Caleta, perfect for relaxing in the calm waters and spotting marine life.

Is wildlife guaranteed?
While sightings depend on the day, the crew strives to find dolphins and whales, and reviews say sightings are common, with some guests experiencing multiple dolphin encounters.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife shared yacht cruise offers a stellar mix of comfort, fun, and authenticity. With a friendly crew, excellent food and drinks, and opportunities for water-based activities, it’s a great way to enjoy Tenerife’s coast without the expense or hassle of a private charter. The small group size ensures personal attention, making it a memorable and relaxing day out.

Ideal for those who love scenic views, wildlife, good company, and a touch of luxury, this cruise balances all those elements beautifully. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a relaxing escape on the water, it delivers an experience that’s both enjoyable and worthwhile.

If you’re after an authentic, intimate boat trip with excellent service and a friendly atmosphere, this tour should be top of your list. Just remember to book in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak times, to secure your spot on this popular adventure.