Puerto Colón: Coastal Boat Cruise with Swimming and Snacks

Exploring Tenerife’s South Coast by Boat: A Practical and Enjoyable Experience

If you’re seeking a relaxed way to see Tenerife’s southern shore, a boat cruise from Puerto Colón offers a perfect blend of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and fun in the sun. This 3-hour trip, operated by bellamar Cruise, promises a cozy experience aboard a small, safe vessel called Bellamar, capable of holding just seven passengers plus crew. Whether you opt for a shared ride or a private charter, you’ll get a taste of the local marine environment, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy snacks and drinks along the way.

Two things I particularly like about this cruise are the small-group intimacy, which makes for a more personal, attentive experience, and the chance to see dolphins — a highlight for many travelers. The snacks and drinks are a simple but appreciated touch, especially after a refreshing swim. However, one thing to keep in mind is that sea conditions can vary; if the water is choppy or the weather windy, you might find yourself feeling seasick — a common occurrence, as some reviews note. So, if you’re prone to motion sickness, it might be worth taking precautions or considering the timing of your trip.

All in all, this cruise offers a straightforward, well-organized way to explore Tenerife’s coast, with a handful of memorable moments like dolphin sightings and snorkeling in tranquil coves. The guides are praised for their attentiveness, especially Luca, who boat passengers say took good care of them, offering an extra layer of comfort.

Key points / Takeaways
– Small-group experience: With a maximum of 7 passengers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and less crowding.
– Wildlife sightings: Dolphins and marine life are often spotted, adding an element of surprise and excitement.
– Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling: The turtle cove is an ideal spot for a swim, with snorkel gear provided.
– Snacks and drinks included: Soft drinks, water, beer, and snacks keep you fueled for the trip’s duration.
– Flexible options: Choose between shared or private trips, accommodating groups of family or friends.
– Good guides: Reviewers especially mention guides like Luca and Jamie for their attentive, friendly service.

An Honest Look at the Experience in Detail

Starting from Puerto Colón, dock number 5, the cruise sets off on the small but sturdy boat called Bellamar. This vessel is designed for comfort and safety, with capacity for just a handful of travelers. This is an important point—if you prefer larger boats with more people, this might not be the right fit. But for those craving intimacy and less noise, it’s a plus.

The itinerary focuses on the southern coast of Tenerife, specifically the stretch between Los Cristianos Beach and Turtle Cove. The journey lasts roughly three hours, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The crew provides a safety briefing at the start, ensuring everyone knows what to do, especially during swimming or snorkeling sessions.

One of the big draws of this cruise is the chance to see dolphins and other marine life. Many reviews highlight frequent sightings, with guides like Luca and Jamie going above and beyond to ensure guests see something special. This isn’t a guaranteed wildlife spectacle, but the chances are good, especially during calmer days. As one reviewer put it, seeing dolphins was “one of the best experiences of my life,” which speaks to how memorable this part of the trip can be.

Swimming and snorkeling at Turtle Cove are key highlights. The crew anchors the boat for a swim break, giving you time to snorkel in clear waters. Snorkel gear is provided, making it easy for all levels to enjoy. After your swim, you can relax and snack on local treats. The included snacks are simple but tasty, and there’s plenty of soft drinks, water, and beer to go around—perfect for cooling off and unwinding.

The crew makes the experience especially enjoyable, with reviews praising guides like Luca for their professionalism and care. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was “very attentive,” ensuring everyone felt safe and comfortable—an understated but crucial aspect of any boat trip.

Weather and sea conditions are worth considering. If it’s windy or choppy, some guests, especially those sensitive to motion sickness, might feel unwell. One reviewer shared that the water was “very choppy,” leading to seasickness and limiting wildlife sightings. Always think about whether you’re prone to motion sickness or bring remedies just in case.

Pricing at $74 per person offers decent value, considering the inclusions—an intimate boat ride, dolphin sightings, snorkeling, snacks, and drinks. For travelers wanting a more personalized adventure rather than a crowded tour, the private option may be worth the extra cost.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Departure from Puerto Colón: The trip begins at dock number 5, with a quick safety briefing and introductions. The boat is cozy but well-maintained, with enough space for a small group. This small size means you’ll have a more relaxed atmosphere and better chances of engaging with the crew.

Sailing along Costa Adeje: The captain sets course along the southern coast, offering panoramic views of Tenerife’s cliffs and beaches. This stretch is perfect for snapping photos and getting a feel for the island’s varied coastline.

Wildlife watching: Over the course of about 1.5 hours, the boat cruises through marine-rich waters, with frequent sightings of dolphins and other sea creatures. Guests often describe this part as the highlight, with guides providing interesting facts about local marine life.

Anchoring at Turtle Cove for swimming and snorkeling: The boat drops anchor here, giving everyone a chance to cool off. The calm, clear waters are ideal for snorkelling, and the crew makes sure everyone has gear and feels safe. Some reviews mention paddleboarding equipment being available, adding variety to your water time.

Snacks and beverages: During the trip, you’ll enjoy an assortment of snacks and drinks, including beer, soft drinks, and water. The simple offerings are enough to keep you energized without overdoing it. Guests have appreciated the “really good snacks and beautiful views,” making the experience more enjoyable.

Final wildlife viewing and return: The last leg includes a brief sail back, offering another chance to spot marine life and enjoy the scenery. The boat then returns to the starting point, completing the experience.

Who This Trip Suits Best

This boat cruise is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate experience on the water. If you love wildlife and hope for dolphin sightings, it’s a good bet. The small group setting makes it particularly suitable for couples, small families, or friends who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere over large, crowded tours.

However, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues, given the boat’s size and the nature of water-based activities. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a calmer day, check the weather forecast before booking, as choppy waters can limit the enjoyment and wildlife sightings.

For those who want a flexible experience, the option of private trips or small-group bookings offers more control over the schedule and company. The inclusion of snacks and drinks adds to the value, especially considering the personalized service you receive from guides like Luca and Jamie.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $74 per person, including snacks, drinks, swimming, and wildlife watching, this cruise offers good value for a three-hour adventure. Compared to larger, more commercial tours, the intimacy and attentive guides elevate this experience. Plus, the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment and snorkel at a tranquil cove adds a memorable touch.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic ride with the possibility of wildlife surprises, this cruise fits the bill. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy small-group outings, honest guides, and simple pleasures like good snacks and a splash in the sea.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Experience?

In summary, this boat trip from Puerto Colón suits travelers wanting an authentic, small-group adventure along Tenerife’s south coast. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, water enthusiasts, and anyone keen to enjoy the sea with knowledgeable guides looking after your safety and comfort.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can affect the experience—choppy waters may limit wildlife sightings or cause seasickness. It’s a straightforward trip with no frills, but those small touches—good guides, snacks, and the chance to swim in calm waters—make it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary.

If you’re after a relaxed day on the water with a good chance of seeing dolphins and enjoying local snacks, this trip is worth considering. Just plan for a calm day, bring seasickness remedies if needed, and get ready for fun in the sun.

FAQ about the Puerto Colón Coastal Boat Cruise

Is this trip suitable for children or families?
Yes, small groups and the opportunity to swim or snorkel make it suitable for families, though children should be comfortable with water and boat rides. Note that the trip may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 3 hours, including sailing, wildlife watching, swimming, and relaxing. Check the specific starting times when you book.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a shared or private boat trip, snorkeling gear for swimming, snacks, and soft drinks, water, and beer.

Can I see dolphins?
There are high chances of dolphin sightings, and many guests report seeing them during the trip. Guides are experienced at spotting marine life, but it’s not guaranteed.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider medication. A towel and swimwear are useful for swimming or snorkeling.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this experience is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the boat’s size and access limitations.

Do I need to pay upfront?
Reservations are flexible; you can reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

This boat cruise offers a genuine, relaxing way to enjoy Tenerife’s coastline with a small group, friendly guides, and a good chance to spot marine life. Whether you’re a water enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic escape, it’s a memorable addition to your Canary Islands adventure.