SAILING YACHT EXCURSION TOUR, Food & Drinks included!

If you’re looking for a memorable way to experience Tenerife’s stunning southern coast, a sailing yacht excursion with food and drinks might just fit the bill. This small-group adventure, capped at 11 travelers, promises close-up encounters with dolphins and whales, along with the chance to swim or snorkel in clear Atlantic waters. Led by an experienced crew, it’s a laid-back trip designed for those who want a taste of the ocean without the fuss of large tour boats.

What I particularly like about this tour is its intimate setting—fewer people mean more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Plus, the inclusion of delicious buffet-style lunch and drinks adds a nice touch, making it feel more like a leisurely day out rather than just a sightseeing dash. The second highlight is the opportunity to jump off the boat for a swim or snorkel, gear included, which turns this from just a boat ride into a true ocean experience. However, one thing to keep in mind is that, as some reviews mention, the boat isn’t a luxury yacht but a sailing vessel—so don’t expect a posh cruise.

Another consideration is the food quality and drink availability, which some reviewers found lacking or sparse. If you’re expecting gourmet fare, this might not be the trip for you, but if you’re after a simple, fresh, and included meal while enjoying beautiful scenery, it’s a good value. This tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife spotting, scenic cruising, and a relaxed atmosphere—ideal for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a laid-back ocean adventure in Tenerife.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small-group format offers personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Wildlife sightings of dolphins and whales are common and a major draw.
• Inclusive lunch and drinks simplify the experience and add to the overall value.
• Snorkeling and swimming opportunities allow for active engagement with the ocean.
• The boat is a sailing vessel, not a luxury yacht, which influences expectations.
• Some reviews highlight inconsistent food and drink quality, so manage expectations accordingly.

Setting the Scene: An Authentic Tenerife Experience

Starting from the Puerto Colón marina, this tour immediately sets a relaxed tone. Being a small-group excursion, it feels more like a gathering of friends than a packed cruise. The crew’s local guides are generally praised for their knowledge, making the wildlife spotting especially engaging. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a three-hour cruise, with enough space to lounge and enjoy the views.

The weather plays a big role here—mild Tenerife conditions typically mean calm seas and pleasant breezes, perfect for sailing and wildlife watching. You’ll likely encounter dolphins darting around the boat, with occasional whale sightings, as the waters off southern Tenerife are known for marine life. Some travelers mention that the guides are quite good at spotting and identifying animals, which adds an educational element to the adventure.

The Itinerary: From Playa de las Americas to Oceanic Wonders

The tour kicks off at Playa de las Americas, a lively spot in Costa Adeje. The first stop involves sailing along the coast, where your crew—often led by a knowledgeable guide—keeps a keen eye on the waters. This is where you’ll get your best chance to spot dolphins or even whales, a highlight for most travelers.

One of the biggest perks is the frequent stops for swimming and snorkeling. Just remember, the gear is included, and this is often the favorite part for those who love water activities. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for observing marine life up close, which some reviewers found particularly memorable. Be aware that the safety measures are in place, with life vests and calm waters making it suitable for most swimmers.

The final part of the trip involves cruising back to the marina, giving you plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery and relax on deck. The buffet lunch typically includes some simple snacks, and drinks (beer, cava, soft drinks) are offered, though some reviews suggest the selection can be sparse or inconsistent.

The Realities: What to Expect from the Experience

Based on traveler reviews, expect a friendly, laid-back environment that doesn’t aim to be overly luxurious but focuses on genuine wildlife encounters and scenic beauty. A big plus is the small size of the group, which can make wildlife spotting more successful and the overall experience more personal. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

On the flip side, some guests report that the food served onboard is basic, and drinks may be limited or sparse, especially if you’re hungry or expecting a more gourmet meal. If you’re celebrating something special, like an anniversary, keep in mind that the private group option might be worth the extra cost, as the standard tour is more casual.

The boat itself is described as a sailing vessel (not a yacht), which is important to note—if you’re expecting a luxury experience, this might be more rustic than you imagine. But if you’re comfortable with a traditional sailboat and appreciate the authentic charm, this setup adds to the adventure.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $69.46 per person, this tour offers a good value for the combination of wildlife viewing, water activities, and included food and drinks. It’s a relatively short experience, just three hours, but packed with highlights. Compared to larger, less personal tours, the intimacy and chance to see animals in their natural habitat make it a worthwhile option.

Some reviews highlight that, despite the basic food offerings, the overall experience—especially marine life sightings—justifies the price. For those who want a straightforward, enjoyable ocean day with a small group, it hits the right balance of activity and relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families with kids comfortable in water, and anyone seeking a relaxed, informal day at sea. Its small-group setting means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the included snorkeling gear makes it easy to turn a boat ride into a mini aquatic adventure. If you’re not fussed about luxury but want authentic marine encounters in Tenerife, this is a solid pick.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate local guides and enjoy a casual atmosphere. Be prepared for possible variations in meal quality, and don’t expect a yacht-level experience—this is more about the ocean and wildlife than fancy amenities.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Sailing Yacht Excursion in Tenerife offers a well-rounded, authentic ocean experience with a focus on wildlife spotting and water activities. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides create a friendly and engaging environment, making it easier to connect with the marine environment. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds convenience, though the quality may vary.

While not a luxury cruise, it provides a genuine taste of Tenerife’s marine beauty at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for travelers craving an intimate, active outing—especially those who love animals, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on deck while soaking up the sun.

If you’re after a straightforward, authentic, and fun day on the water with chances to see dolphins and whales, this tour offers excellent value. Just remember to temper expectations about the food and the boat’s luxury level, and you’ll likely come away with some wonderful memories.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity in Tenerife.

Is the boat suitable for children?
While mostly suitable, it’s best for children comfortable with water activities and boat trips. The tour includes snorkeling gear, so kids who enjoy swimming will love it.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a buffet lunch along with drinks such as beer, cava, and soft drinks are included in the price.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour offers multiple stops for safe swimming and snorkeling, with gear provided.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket if the weather is breezy. Remember, the tour doesn’t specify a need for additional equipment as gear is provided.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to bad weather.

Is there a private option?
While the standard tour is shared, some reviews mention the possibility of booking private groups, especially for special occasions like anniversaries, which might be worth exploring if you’re celebrating.