Tenerife Motor Boat Whale Watching & Snorkeling Experience

Tenerife Motor Boat Whale Watching & Snorkeling Experience offers an engaging way to explore the island’s rich marine life in a relatively short time. Priced at $69 and lasting approximately three hours, this tour combines the thrill of spotting wild whales and dolphins with the joy of snorkeling in a beautiful bay. Conducted aboard a 10.8-meter motor boat capable of comfortably seating 11, it’s a tour designed for small groups who appreciate a personalized touch. From the vibrant Puerto Colon port, this experience promises scenic coastal views, wildlife encounters, and a relaxing swim—all wrapped into a sweet package that’s easy to fit into a Tenerife itinerary.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is its focus on natural wildlife observation. Seeing pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat is a rare privilege, and this trip makes it accessible for most travelers. Also, the stop at Playa del Puertito for snorkeling adds a delightful bonus — a chance to see turtles and enjoy some downtime, with clear waters and abundant fish. The crew’s friendly vibe, especially noted by past travelers, suggests you’re in good hands, and their attentive service can make the difference between a good trip and a memorable one. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy means you can book without much worry, knowing a rain check or refund is possible if the weather turns unfavorable.

On the flip side, one potential drawback is the boat’s size—being a smaller vessel, it might not accommodate everyone comfortably if you prefer to sit in the shade rather than the sun. As one reviewer mentioned, the boat does involve a narrow climb onto the front sunbeds, which might be tricky for travelers with mobility concerns or a dislike of climbing. Also, because the tour is limited to 11 guests, it’s best to book in advance if you want a spot. Still, many praise the intimate nature of the trip, which often leads to a more personal and relaxed experience than larger group tours.

Key Points

• Small Group Atmosphere: The tour is limited to 11 travelers, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: The main highlight is spotting pilot whales and dolphins in their natural environment, with past reviews confirming successful sightings.
• Snorkeling at Playa del Puertito: A scenic stop for swimming, snorkeling, and potentially seeing turtles adds a memorable touch.
• Flexible Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving peace of mind.
• Comfortable Boat: The 10.8-meter vessel offers shaded seating and sunbeds, though some may find the front sunbeds narrow or harder to access.
• Excellent for Nature Lovers: Suitable for most travelers, with reviews highlighting friendly guides and a professional crew.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect

This tour kicks off at Puerto Colon, a bustling port in Tenerife’s south, known for its tourist-friendly vibe. The location makes it easy to combine with a day of shopping, sunbathing, or just strolling along the promenade. The boat departs from here, giving you scenic views of the southern coastline as you leave the busy harbor behind.

The Boat and Seating: The vessel is a 10.8-meter motor boat designed for comfort. You’ll have the choice between shaded seating—ideal for those who prefer avoiding the sun—and large sunbeds upfront for sunbathers. Several travelers have enjoyed lounging at the front, soaking up the sun and watching the coastline slide past. However, a word of advice from reviews is that climbing onto the front sunbeds involves a narrow ascent, so plan accordingly if mobility or comfort matters.

Wildlife Watching – The Main Event: The heart of this tour is dolphin and pilot whale spotting. Expect the crew to keep a keen eye on the water, and past guests have appreciated how attentive and friendly the guides are, making wildlife encounters feel organic and unforced. One guest, Jenny, called it an “amazing experience” with “a family of whales and a turtle,” highlighting how frequently these sightings happen. Many also mention that the chance to observe animals in the wild feels authentic—no captive shows here, just the thrill of seeing majestic creatures in their natural setting.

Stop at Playa del Puertito: Midway through the trip, you’ll anchor at Playa del Puertito, a lovely little beach known for its calm, clear waters. Here, you’re encouraged to snorkel and swim freely. This stop typically lasts around 30 minutes, plenty of time to float around, maybe see a turtle—some guests have reported seeing one—or just relax with a snack or drink from your picnic. The shallow waters and vibrant sea life make this a highlight for those who love underwater observation or just want a break from the boat.

The Experience’s Pace and Group Size: Most reviews praise the small-group feel, which allows for more interaction with the crew and better chances to view wildlife without competing with large crowds. The tour lasts about two hours of wildlife watching plus the snorkeling stop, totaling roughly three hours — ideal for travelers with limited time but looking for an immersive, meaningful experience.

What’s Not to Love: The main consideration is the boat size and accessibility. As noted, the vessel can be a bit cramped, especially for sunbathers on the front beds, and not everyone may find the climb onto the sunbeds comfortable. Also, weather plays a significant role; poor conditions could lead to cancellation, but your booking can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours prior if needed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers craving an authentic encounter with wildlife rather than a staged or artificial experience. It suits nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in a relaxed boat trip with good chances of seeing whales and dolphins. If you value small-group intimacy and a friendly crew who prioritize natural encounters over commercial spectacle, this is a solid choice. Its affordability and flexible cancellation policy make it accessible for those uncertain about weather or specific schedules.

It’s also a fantastic way to combine sightseeing with a relaxing swim, making it suitable for those who want a bit of everything in their Tenerife holiday. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll likely love the chance to see marine life in the wild, but remember that the boat’s size might be less comfortable for those sensitive to motion or prone to seasickness.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

At $69, this whale watching and snorkeling trip offers genuine value. It’s an affordable way to spend part of your day immersed in Tenerife’s marine environment. The chance to see pilot whales and dolphins, along with snorkeling in an unspoiled bay, brings a memorable mix of discovery and relaxation. The tour’s small size, friendly guides, and focus on wildlife make it stand out from larger, more commercial options.

While it’s not one for the luxury-seeking traveler, it delivers authentic, up-close encounters with nature that many will treasure. The scenery, wildlife, and chance to float in calm waters make it an experience worth considering if you enjoy outdoor adventures and getting to know the natural side of Tenerife.

This tour is a good pick for those who want a relaxed, wildlife-focused outing, with the flexibility and personal touch that larger tours often lack. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’re likely to come away with stories and memories that enrich your Tenerife trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Since most travelers can participate, it’s generally suitable for families and individuals. Just be aware of boat size if mobility is a concern.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with roughly 2 hours dedicated to wildlife watching and 30 minutes for snorkeling at Playa del Puertito.

What’s included in the price? The price covers the boat trip, wildlife encounters, snorkeling stop, and most likely some basic guidance from the crew. You’ll need to bring your own snacks and drinks if desired.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad? Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the trip, should weather conditions be unfavorable.

Is there shade on the boat? Yes, the boat has a large shaded seating area, but some may prefer lounging on the front sunbeds, which are exposed and involve a narrow climb.

Are animals allowed on board? Service animals are permitted, so if you’re traveling with a support animal, this should not be an issue.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at Puerto Colon, a popular port in Tenerife’s south.

What are the chances of seeing whales or turtles? Past reviews indicate a good likelihood—many travelers have seen whales, dolphins, and even turtles during the trip.

Is it a good value? Absolutely. At $69 for this experience, it offers a memorable combo of wildlife observation and scenic snorkeling that many find worth every penny.

What should I bring? Pack sun protection, a towel, a waterproof camera, and snacks or drinks. Wear comfortable shoes for the narrow climb to the front sunbeds if you plan to sunbathe there.

In essence, the Tenerife Motor Boat Whale Watching & Snorkeling Experience provides a compelling blend of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty—all in a manageable, friendly package. It’s a trip that can make your Tenerife visit both exciting and enriching, especially if you’re eager to see the island’s natural marine residents.