Tenerife Turtle and Snorkel Tour from Costa Adeje

Snorkeling among sea turtles and vibrant marine life in Tenerife’s calm waters sounds like a dream, but how does this specific tour hold up? This three-hour adventure from Costa Adeje offers the chance to see turtles, fish, and rays with professional guides and all the necessary equipment included. It’s a popular choice, especially for those looking for a memorable, family-friendly activity that doesn’t require diving experience.

What we really like about this tour is the focus on guided snorkeling in areas known to attract turtles and an emphasis on comfort, with snorkel gear supplied on board. The opportunity to see creatures like green turtles close-up, as some reviewers have, makes this experience stand out. However, it’s worth noting that turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed — some travelers find themselves disappointed, especially if water conditions are rough or the wildlife is shy.

If you’re a water lover, keen to explore Tenerife’s marine habitat, and appreciate a well-organized outing with knowledgeable guides, this trip could be a great fit. Just be aware that non-swimmers are not suited for this tour, and weather can influence the experience. It’s best suited for curious families, adventurous couples, or solo travelers eager for a marine encounter in a safe setting.

Key Points

• Focus on wildlife sightings: Expect to see turtles, fish, and rays, but no guarantees.
• All equipment included: Snorkel masks, fins, and tubes are provided, making it accessible for most.
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides like Sebastian receive praise for safety and assistance.
• Limited group size: Max 10 travelers, which creates a more personal experience.
• Potential water challenges: Water can be choppy, so strong swimming skills are recommended.
• Flexible departure times: Options available to suit your schedule.
• Price point: At around $53, it offers good value for a marine adventure with gear and guides included.
• Mixed reviews: While many rave about the experience, some highlight delays, or water conditions that diminish the chance of spotting turtles.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is straightforward: your ticket covers the boat trip, snorkel gear, professional guides, and insurance. You won’t need to bring your own equipment, which is great for casual snorkelers or those new to the activity. The meeting point at PADI 5-star Dive Center is easy to find, and the activity concludes back at the same location.

However, transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and some snacks if you want to stay energized. Keep in mind, non-swimmers are not suitable for this activity, as it involves snorkeling in open water.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start Location: The tour kicks off at the PADI 5-star Dive Center in Costa Adeje, a reputable spot for diving and snorkeling activities. From here, you board a boat that will whisk you away to prime snorkeling zones.

The boat ride itself is part of the fun. Expect a 20-30 minute cruise, during which you might spot dolphins or other marine life, according to some reviews. The crew is praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, especially in providing wetsuits and warm coats to stay comfortable amid the breeze.

The snorkeling stops are set at areas known for their clear waters and thriving underwater environments. Guides will lead you to spots with abundant flora and fauna, including a beautiful cove with crystalline waters where you might see tons of underwater animals. Depth varies from 2 to 8 meters, offering manageable conditions for most snorkelers.

Wildlife encounters are the main highlight, with many guests mentioning the chance to see green turtles up close. Some reviewers, like Nick and Tommaso, talk about seeing multiple turtles, with one describing a particularly “very friendly” turtle. Others have observed rays, fish, and even octopuses, making it a colorful underwater safari.

Safety and assistance are key features. Guides like Sebastian are noted for their attentiveness and clear instructions, which help ensure a smooth experience, especially for first-timers or those less comfortable in open water.

Water conditions can vary. Some travelers report choppy seas, which can make snorkeling difficult or uncomfortable, especially for weaker swimmers or those prone to seasickness. One reviewer noted feeling “battered” and “sea sick” during rough conditions, so check the weather forecast before booking.

Turtle sightings are unpredictable. While many see turtles within minutes, some reviews mention not seeing any at all. One guest expressed frustration after waiting and not observing any turtles, but still enjoying the overall experience. Remember, marine wildlife doesn’t always cooperate, and patience is part of the game.

The return trip brings you back to the meeting point, often within 20 minutes after the last snorkel session. Most reviewers felt the overall schedule was well-organized, with some noting minor delays at the start.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many travelers are delighted when they spot turtles early on, with descriptions like “swimming with wild turtles” and “close-up views” that make the experience memorable. Guides receive high praise—for their professionalism, multilingual skills, and attention to safety. One reviewer even recalls a guide adjusting a mask to help a nervous swimmer feel more comfortable, highlighting the personal touch that makes this trip special.

However, a few reviews tell a different story. One guest recounted being left behind in the water, which was frightening and resulted in a near-drowning experience. The company’s response was criticized, with claims of poor tracking and lack of empathy. This stark contrast underscores the importance of water safety and the variability of the experience depending on weather, group management, and luck.

Others appreciated the quality of the supplied gear and the boat ride itself, comparing it favorably to other excursions. Dolphins were sighted during the ride in some reviews, adding extra excitement to the trip.

Value for Money

At roughly $53 per person, this tour offers solid value given the inclusion of snorkel equipment, guides, insurance, and a scenic boat ride. For those eager to see marine life without the hassle of bringing their gear or organizing a private boat, it’s a practical choice. The small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds while snorkeling.

That said, some guests felt the experience was marred by delays or water conditions. The extra cost for underwater photos was mentioned by one reviewer, who found it a bit steep, but overall, many considered the trip reasonably priced for what they received.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for water lovers comfortable with open-water snorkeling. Since non-swimmers are not permitted, it’s ideal for confident swimmers or those willing to try with gear support. Families with children who meet the physical requirements could find it enjoyable, provided water conditions are calm.

Adventure seekers looking for the thrill of encountering wild turtles and marine life up-close will appreciate the guided approach. However, travelers who prefer guaranteed wildlife sightings or are sensitive to rough seas might want to consider other options or wait for calmer days.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife turtle and snorkel tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. The guided snorkeling in clear waters, the chance to see turtles and rays, and the attentive guides make it a memorable outing. The inclusion of all necessary gear makes it straightforward and accessible, especially for newcomers to snorkeling.

While water conditions and wildlife activity can influence your experience, the majority of reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, along with the thrill of spotting turtles in their natural habitat. It’s a great option for anyone who values the opportunity to explore Tenerife’s underwater world in a safe, well-organized manner.

However, be prepared for the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and possibly choppy water. If you’re comfortable in the water and looking for an authentic marine encounter, this tour is likely to deliver a fun and worthwhile adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear? No, all equipment is supplied, including masks, fins, and snorkels, making it easy for beginners or those who don’t want to travel with gear.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers? No, the activity requires the ability to swim on your own, so non-swimmers should consider other options.

What should I wear for the tour? Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. Wetsuits are provided and can be used if you wish for extra warmth.

How long is the boat ride to the snorkeling spots? Expect approximately 20-30 minutes, during which you might also see dolphins or other marine life.

Can I choose my departure time? Yes, the tour offers a choice of departure times to fit your schedule.

What if I don’t see any turtles? Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Many guests still enjoy the experience for the marine environment and fish, but patience is key.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s best for families with children who are strong swimmers and comfortable in open water, as non-swimmers are not allowed.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine chance to connect with Tenerife’s marine life in a relaxed setting. With friendly guides, good equipment, and the potential to see turtles in their natural environment, it’s a solid choice for water enthusiasts eager for an authentic adventure—just keep expectations realistic and check the weather before booking.