Snorkeling Boat Trip in Marine Turtles Natural Habitat

A Deep Dive into the Canary Islands Snorkeling Adventure

Our review of the Snorkeling Boat Trip in Marine Turtles Natural Habitat offers an honest look at what you can expect when booking this popular excursion in the Canary Islands. Priced at around $57 per person, this activity promises a safe, educational, and exhilarating journey into the ocean’s world, led by experienced guides. While the trip boasts some truly memorable moments—like swimming alongside gentle turtles and gazing at stunning coastal views—it’s also worth noting that wild animal sightings aren’t guaranteed.

The two highlights I appreciate most are the guides’ professionalism and the breathtaking scenery. Tour guides like Nicola, for example, are praised for putting everyone at ease while making the trip both fun and informative. Plus, you’ll love the way the boat ride offers spectacular views of the coastline, setting the perfect scene before slipping into the water. On the flip side, the main caveat is that previous reviews include instances of trip cancellations or logistical hiccups—so it’s essential to double-check your booking and communicate clearly with the operator.

This snorkeling trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized tour with knowledgeable guides, especially if you’re eager to see turtles in their natural environment. However, it’s not suited for children under 10, pregnant women, or those without prior snorkeling experience. Still, if you’re comfortable in the water and looking for a quick, memorable escape into marine life, this adventure is worth exploring.

Key points / Takeaways

• Professional guides like those from Iki Dive Tenerife make safety and enjoyment top priorities.
• Scenic boat ride provides stunning coastal views en route to the snorkeling site.
• Wild turtle sightings are not guaranteed, but the chance to see these gentle creatures is a major draw.
• Snorkeling gear and certification are included—no need to bring your own equipment.
• Small group setting (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• The duration of 2.5 hours makes it a manageable and fulfilling outing for most travelers.

Introduction to the Experience

This snorkeling trip in the Canary Islands offers a chance to glide through the clear waters and get close to marine life, including the elusive turtles. While some reviews mention issues like cancellations, many travelers find the experience rewarding thanks to expert guidance and beautiful scenery. The tour is run by Iki Dive Tenerife, a company with a reputation for professionalism, which helps set expectations right from the start.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a boat ride and snorkeling in a relatively short time. For just over two hours, you’ll sail along the coast, enjoying the views, then plunge into pristine waters where you can swim freely among schools of colorful fish and the chance to see turtles. Guides such as Nicola have received praise for making everyone feel at ease, regardless of their snorkeling experience, and for sharing interesting insights about marine life.

One thing to remember is that previous guests have reported mixed experiences regarding trip cancellations or logistical issues. For example, Jenny’s experience was disappointing because her trip never happened due to a no-show at the meeting point, despite her being there on time. So, confirming your booking and keeping in touch with the operator is advisable.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Meeting and Preparation

Your adventure begins at the harbor, where the staff from Iki Dive Tenerife will greet you and provide a safety briefing. They offer full snorkeling equipment, including life jackets upon request. The guides are certified SSI Snorkel Divers, meaning you’re in capable hands. You’ll also be given some tips tailored to your experience level, whether you’re a beginner or more seasoned snorkeler.

Cruising to the Snorkeling Spot

Once geared up, the team takes you aboard a speed boat for a scenic cruise along the coastline. Expect crystalline waters and striking views of the Canary Islands’ rugged coast. Many travelers comment on how stunning the scenery is, making the journey itself a memorable part of the trip. The boat’s small size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a relaxed experience and plenty of room to move.

Snorkeling Among Marine Life

After anchoring at the designated spot, it’s time to slip into the water. Guides like “certified professionals” will stay close to assist and answer questions. The over 1 hour of snorkeling allows ample time to explore the underwater world, which is teeming with fish, coral, and, hopefully, turtles.

While turtle sightings cannot be guaranteed—a fact acknowledged by the provider—many guests are lucky enough to see these gentle giants glide past. One reviewer, Chris, was thrilled to spot dolphins on their way to the snorkeling site, illustrating that marine encounters can go beyond just turtles.

Returning to the Harbor

After your snorkeling session, the boat will cruise back, offering more spectacular views along the coast. This is a good time to relax, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery. The trip concludes back at the harbor, with an opportunity to share stories and photos.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This tour suits travelers who value professional guides and beautiful scenery over the guarantee of animal sightings. It’s ideal for those with prior snorkeling experience, as previous reviews mention that non-swimmers or inexperienced snorkelers might find the water challenging. Children over 10, especially if comfortable in the water, will likely enjoy it, but pregnant women or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to skip it.

Given the cost of around $57, it provides a fairly good value considering the included gear, professional guidance, and small group size. The experience is best for curious travelers who want a quick but memorable marine adventure, rather than those seeking a longer or more secluded trip.

Price and Logistics: Worth the Investment?

At $57, this snorkeling trip offers a reasonable price point for the overall experience. The inclusion of full snorkeling gear, a professional guide, and certification enhances value, especially if you’re interested in a guided, organized activity rather than improvising on your own.

However, the possibility of cancellations or no-shows—as highlighted in some reviews—means you should confirm your reservation and possibly communicate with the provider beforehand. It’s also worth noting that pictures and videos are not included, so if capturing your marine moments is important, you might want to bring a waterproof camera.

Transportation is handled via hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics and keeps things convenient. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it a more intimate experience than larger, crowd-heavy tours.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Truly Enjoy This Trip?

This snorkeling adventure is best suited for travelers who appreciate professional guidance and aren’t overly concerned about seeing turtles—though that’s a bonus. If you’re comfortable in open water, eager to explore marine life, and want to enjoy a scenic boat ride, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable option.

It’s a good choice for families with older children, independent travelers, or groups looking for a short, active outing. If you’re seeking a more guaranteed wildlife encounter or a longer excursion, it might be wise to explore other options or confirm your plans well in advance.

For those who love authentic coastal views and marine encounters, this trip delivers on both fronts, as long as you keep expectations in check and understand the natural variability inherent in wildlife experiences.

FAQ

Is prior snorkeling experience required?
Yes, previous experience is necessary, as the tour requires some familiarity with snorkeling. Beginners might find it challenging without basic skills.

Does the tour include all necessary gear?
Yes, full snorkeling equipment is provided, including masks, fins, and snorkels. Life jackets are available upon request.

Can I bring my own camera?
The tour does not include pictures or videos, but bringing a waterproof camera or phone case is a good idea if you want to capture your underwater moments.

What is the duration of the trip?
The total experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including boat ride, snorkeling, and return.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those without prior snorkeling experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the package, which simplifies logistics.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsafe—like strong wind or adverse sea conditions—the trip could be canceled with a full refund.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, French, and Italian, ensuring clear communication.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

How likely am I to see turtles?
Wild turtles are unpredictable, so sightings cannot be guaranteed, but many guests do see them or marine life like dolphins on the way.

In summary, this snorkeling trip in the Canary Islands offers a well-organized, scenic, and educational way to experience marine life in a small group setting. While wildlife sightings are subject to nature’s whim, the professional guides, stunning views, and gentle waters make it a solid choice for travelers seeking a memorable aquatic outing. Just keep your expectations realistic, confirm your booking, and prepare for a fun, active day on the water.