3-Hour Boat Trip from Costa Adeje in Tenerife

A Closer Look at the 3-Hour Boat Trip from Costa Adeje in Tenerife

If you’re visiting Tenerife and want to experience the island from a different perspective, a boat trip along its southern coast is a fantastic choice. While the island is famous for its volcanic landscapes and lively towns, nothing beats the feeling of being out on the water, watching for dolphins and whales. This particular tour, operated by VIMOTIONS, offers a small-group experience on a luxury sailboat, with just ten passengers, ensuring you won’t get lost in a crowd.

What I love about this trip is the personalized attention from the skipper, Felix Palmero, who’s been sailing these waters daily for over a decade. His deep knowledge makes the journey more engaging, especially as he actively seeks out marine life. Another highlight is the scenic coastline you’ll cruise past, with chances to stop for a swim and snorkel—perfect for adding some fun and refreshment to the trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that the reviews show mixed experiences regarding punctuality—some travelers found the pickup service a bit unreliable, and the trip’s timing can vary slightly. But overall, the chance to see dolphins and possibly even whales makes this a worthwhile outing, especially if you appreciate a relaxed, intimate atmosphere on the open sea.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small-Group Tour: Limited to 10 passengers for a more intimate experience and better chances of engaging with the guide.
• Expert Skipper: Felix Palmero’s extensive experience focusing on Tenerife’s coasts enhances the adventure.
• Marine Life Encounters: Strong chances of seeing dolphins and whales, with some reviews mentioning sightings of pilot whales and even a 20-meter-long whale.
• Hassle-Free Pickup: Includes hotel pickup from South Tenerife, reducing logistical stress.
• Comfort and Amenities: The boat, Seaquestff, features a 13-meter length, with comfortable seats, a solarium, cabins, bathrooms, and a kitchen-dining area.
• Snacks and Drinks: Enjoy a glass of champagne, beverages, and ham and cheese sandwiches during the trip.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, providing peace of mind in case weather or plans change.
• Timing and Duration: The trip lasts about 3 hours, but some reviews note it can be shorter or start late; plan accordingly.

Exploring the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting from Costa Adeje, your journey kicks off with a relaxed pickup process, which is especially convenient if you’re staying in the southern part of Tenerife. Once aboard the Seaquestff, a well-maintained sailboat equipped with modern amenities and comfortable seating, the adventure begins. Captain Felix, whose enthusiasm and local knowledge shine, will navigate along the coastline, pointing out notable sights and keeping an eye out for marine life.

The voyage’s main highlight is the chance to see dolphins and whales. Reviews consistently praise the skipper’s skill in locating these animals—one reviewer even mentioned seeing dolphins and pilot whales under sail, which they described as a “fab experience.” Felix actively seeks out marine life, and from the reviews, it’s clear many guests have enjoyed sightings, sometimes from quite a distance.

After some cruising, the boat stops for swimming and snorkeling in calmer waters. You can take a dip in the Atlantic, with the crew providing safety gear such as life jackets—important for less experienced swimmers. The boat’s setup allows for a relaxed environment where you can lounge on the solarium with mattresses, sip on drinks, or chat with fellow travelers.

As the trip winds down, you’ll head back to Costa Adeje, perhaps with a few photos of dolphins or whales to remember your marine safari. The combination of natural beauty, expert guidance, and small-group intimacy makes this tour a balanced choice for those wanting a mix of adventure and comfort.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

The Personal Touch of Captain Felix

Many reviews highlight Felix Palmero’s excellent local knowledge and attentive nature. He’s not just a guide but an active participant in ensuring everyone has a memorable experience. His experience of sailing these waters daily for over ten years translates into a confident, smooth ride that maximizes your chances of wildlife sightings.

The Chance to See Marine Wildlife

Seeing dolphins is common, but some travelers have been lucky enough to spot pilot whales and even a whale over 20 meters long. As one reviewer put it, Felix “visted trash out of the sea,” showing his commitment to marine preservation. The thrill of watching these intelligent creatures in their natural environment is the primary reason many choose this trip.

The Quality of the Boat and Amenities

The Seaquestff is a 13-metre boat with cabins, bathrooms, and a kitchen-dining room, making it comfortable for the duration. The solarium area with mattresses offers a relaxing spot to sunbathe or unwind. Snacks like ham and cheese sandwiches and beverages, including champagne, help make the trip feel special.

Convenient and Hassle-Free Logistics

The included pickup service saves you from arranging transport, especially beneficial if you’re staying in South Tenerife. The meeting point is easy to find, near public transportation hubs, reducing stress and allowing you to focus on the fun.

The Drawbacks and Considerations

While overall positive, some travelers mention that timing can be unpredictable—the trip might start late or end early, sometimes lasting only about 2.5 hours instead of three. One reviewer noted that the pick-up was not on time, possibly due to miscommunication. It’s wise to check your pickup details beforehand and remain flexible.

Plus, the price of around $65 per person might seem high for a short trip, but considering the boat’s amenities, included drinks, and the potential wildlife sightings, many find it reasonable. It’s a worthwhile investment if marine life and a relaxed sailing environment are priorities.

Who Is This Trip Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, personalized experience with a focus on wildlife watching. It’s perfect if you enjoy sailing in comfort and want to avoid large, crowded boat trips. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a small-group setting will find it especially appealing.

However, if you’re interested in a more extensive coastal cruise or a longer trip, you might need to look elsewhere. The trip’s short duration makes it perfect for those with limited time or looking for a quick but memorable outing.

Price, Value, and Overall Impression

At approximately $65, this trip offers good value for the experience—especially with the small group size, expert skipper, and included amenities. While some reviews pointed out minor logistical hiccups, the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat makes the cost worthwhile.

The personalized attention and chance to enjoy the coastline from the deck of a well-equipped sailboat give this tour a special touch. It’s an experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and a good dose of nature—an excellent way to make your Tenerife trip truly memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, the tour offers a pickup service for guests staying in South Tenerife, making logistics easier and more convenient.

How long is the trip?
The scheduled duration is about 3 hours, but some reviews mention it can be slightly shorter or start late, so plan accordingly.

What can I expect to see during the trip?
You’ll have good chances of spotting dolphins and whales, with some reports of pilot whales and even a large whale over 20 meters long.

What amenities are on the boat?
The boat has cabins, bathrooms, a kitchen-dining room, and a solarium area with mattresses for relaxing.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks like ham and cheese sandwiches are provided, along with beverages—including a glass of champagne for a touch of celebration.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the small-group and safe environment make it suitable for families, but always check specifics based on your children’s ages and swimming ability.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you can choose a different date or get a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 10 passengers ensures a more personal experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This 3-hour boat trip from Costa Adeje offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife spotting, sailing comfort, and scenic coastline views. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized, small-group adventures and want to avoid the crowds often associated with larger tours.

While slightly variable in timing and logistics, the chance to see dolphins, whales, and enjoy a relaxed sail makes this experience stand out for those seeking authentic encounters with Tenerife’s marine life. Bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appreciation for the natural beauty of the Canary Islands, and you’ll leave with memories that last long after the trip ends.

Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a solo traveler, this outing offers a charming slice of Tenerife’s coast—an experience that’s both fun and meaningful for anyone who loves being on the water.