Abades: Guided Snorkeling Tour with Photos

Exploring the Underwater World of Abades: A Snorkeling Adventure

Taking a snorkeling tour in Abades offers a glimpse into the lively, colorful marine life just off the coast of Tenerife. This guided experience, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 with over 200 reviews, combines a friendly, professional guide with the chance to see fish, turtles, stingrays, and even octopuses — all in a safe and controlled environment. For just $34 per person, you get two hours of aquatic discovery that’s perfect for families, beginners, and even those who aren’t confident swimmers.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the focus on small groups — usually limited to six participants. This naturally means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. The guides, who speak German, Spanish, and English, seem genuinely passionate and experienced, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. Plus, the underwater photos and videos included for free are a real bonus — no need to worry about capturing memories yourself.

The only consideration? This is an ocean adventure, so if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, you might want to prepare accordingly. Also, non-swimmers should be aware that spotting turtles requires some distance swimming; if you’re not comfortable in the water, you’ll still see plenty of fish and sea life from the surface, which is a fair trade.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides: Guides like Natalie and Andre provide detailed, friendly instruction that caters to all caps — from children to adults.
• Inclusive Experience: Even non-swimmers can enjoy the tour, thanks to the guides’ supportive approach and optional aids.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spotting sea turtles, stingrays, and octopuses is possible but not guaranteed; the guides do their best to find them.
• Photo & Video Package: Free, high-quality underwater pictures and videos make the memory sharing effortless.
• Family-Friendly: Safe, gentle, and fun, making it ideal for kids over five and those new to snorkeling.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

A Closer Look at the Experience in Abades

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Magilu restaurant, directly in front of Playa Abades — a convenient meeting spot if you’re staying nearby. This no-hassle setup means you won’t have to worry about transportation, as you simply meet your guides (likely Andre and Natalie, based on glowing reviews), gear up, and set out into the water. The tour is limited to small groups of six, ensuring you get personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to Expect on the Water

Once geared up with wetsuits and masks, I love the way the guides take the time to explain everything clearly — from how to breathe properly to where the best spots are. The coral reefs are lively with colorful fish darting in and out of rocks, and depending on the season and luck, you might encounter sea turtles or stingrays. Several reviews mention how guides like Andre and Natalie went above and beyond, adjusting the experience based on participants’ abilities and even holding hands for those who aren’t comfortable swimming.

The Marine Life and Scenery

The underwater landscape is a highlight. From vibrant coral formations to schools of tropical fish, the scenery is captivating. One reviewer said they “saw tons of wildlife including Lola la Tortuga,” while others marveled at spotting baby turtles, squid, or barracudas. The guides’ knowledge means you’ll learn to identify different fish and understand the ecosystem better.

Photos and Videos: A Major Bonus

One of the most praised features is the free photos and videos taken during the tour. This means you can focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about capturing it all — the guides handle that. These are high-quality keepsakes that many reviews mention as a highlight, with some describing the photos as “super” and the videos as “cherished memories.”

Suitability and Accessibility

While the tour welcomes children over five and those with limited swimming skills, non-swimmers should note that seeing turtles involves some distance swimming — it’s not a simple surface sighting. The guides, especially with their 20 years of experience, are very accommodating, providing aids and support. If you’re nervous or unsure, just communicate your comfort level beforehand.

Cost and Value

At $34 for two hours, including top-notch gear, guides, and photos, this experience offers very good value. The small group size and personalized attention enhance the experience, making it more than just a quick splash. Plus, the safety and professionalism reflected in the reviews — like the mention of the guides’ friendliness and expertise — justify the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone curious about the marine life of Tenerife. If you’re seeking a gentle, safe introduction to ocean snorkeling with plenty of chances to see turtles and rays, this is likely your best bet. However, if you’re a seasoned snorkeler looking for a more adventurous or remote experience, you might find this tour a bit gentle but still highly enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just over a third of a hundred dollars, you get a friendly, safe, and well-organized snorkeling adventure that covers all the essentials — good equipment, expert guides, and memorable wildlife encounters. The added bonus of free, high-quality photos means you’ll leave with beautiful souvenirs. The small group size and focus on safety make it especially appealing for families, beginners, and those with limited swimming confidence.

While not every turtle sighting is guaranteed, the experienced guides’ dedication means you’ll get a good shot at seeing some of Tenerife’s fascinating sea creatures. Plus, the opportunity to learn about the marine environment from knowledgeable guides like Natalie and Andre makes this more than just a swim; it’s an educational, memorable experience.

If your goal is a relaxed, enjoyable introduction to Tenerife’s underwater world with plenty of photo opportunities and expert supervision, this snorkeling tour in Abades is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old are welcome. The guides are experienced with kids and ensure a safe, fun experience for all.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?
No, not necessarily. Non-swimmers can still enjoy the tour, especially since guides are prepared to assist and provide aids. However, seeing turtles involves some swimming, so if you want that experience, confidence in the water helps.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and beachwear. Since the tour includes wetsuits, you only need your personal items and sun protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Are the photos really free?
Yes, the guides take high-quality underwater photos and videos at no extra cost, giving you lasting memories without any hidden charges.

Is transportation included?
No, the meeting point is at the Magilu restaurant in front of Playa Abades. You’re responsible for getting there, but the location is quite accessible if you’re staying nearby.

This snorkeling tour in Abades offers a friendly, well-organized way to experience Tenerife’s underwater treasures. With top guides, incredible wildlife, and the added bonus of free photos, it’s a worthwhile activity for anyone looking to add some aquatic fun to their trip.