Tenerife: Whales and Snorkeling Tour on a Luxury Yacht

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful day out on the ocean, spotting whales and dolphins while indulging in some quality food and drinks, this Tenerife luxury yacht tour might just be what you’re after. We’ve looked into this experience, and it’s clear that many travelers find it a memorable way to enjoy the island’s coast in style. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned sailor, the blend of wildlife, comfort, and stunning scenery makes this trip stand out.

What really appeals here is the small-group vibe — maximum of 10 people means you get a more personalized experience, away from the crowds. Plus, the chance to snorkel in clear waters topped with delicious tapas and unlimited drinks? That’s a combo that’s hard to beat. But, keep in mind, it’s not designed for those prone to seasickness or looking for a long, intensive adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, luxurious day with a focus on marine life and coastal beauty.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures intimacy and personalized attention.
• Flexible itinerary with whale watching, snorkeling, scenic views, and onboard dining.
• High-quality experience with knowledgeable crew and luxurious yacht amenities.
• Great value for money with food, drinks, gear, and scenic excursions included.
• Weather-dependent; activities may be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable.
• Not suited for seasickness-prone travelers due to the nature of the boat ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is delivered by Royal Ocean, offering a three-hour trip that combines wildlife viewing, scenic cruising, and light snorkeling. The emphasis is on comfort and quality, so you’ll be cruising on a modern, spacious yacht designed for relaxation. The price point of around $91 per person positions it as an accessible luxury option—considering the included snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided marine insights, it offers quite a lot for the money.

This experience is not just about ticking off a whale sighting; it’s crafted as a leisure day on the water, full of scenic coastlines and high-end touches. As many reviews highlight, the crew’s friendliness, knowledge, and attentive service elevate the trip to something memorable. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of space, and the chance to truly unwind in a beautiful setting.

The Detailed Itinerary

The tour begins at Pantalan 3 Marina del Sur, with the pickup point conveniently located in Costa Adeje. From there, you’ll hop into a van for about 25 minutes, traveling along the coast to reach the departure harbor. This short transfer helps build anticipation as you begin to see Tenerife’s dramatic cliffs and harbors from afar.

Once at the marina, there’s a brief safety briefing—just enough to ensure everyone feels comfortable before setting sail. The boat itself is described as luxurious, with numerous lounging areas both indoors and on the deck. It’s clear that comfort is a priority; many reviewers mention the yacht’s spaciousness and how well-maintained it is.

The cruise then moves to Las Galletas and Palm-Mar, where you’ll enjoy panoramic coastal views, sail past caves, and gaze up at imposing cliffs. These scenic stops are perfect for photo sessions, and you’ll get a chance to relax on deck while listening to the crew’s insights about local marine life.

Next, the boat heads toward Los Cristianos, where you’ll stop for whale watching. This is often the highlight, with sightings of pilot whales and dolphins being quite common, as confirmed by enthusiastic reviews. Many travelers mention that their guides are knowledgeable and eager to share details about the animals they spot.

After whale watching, the tour continues with a leisurely cruise back toward Los Cristianos, offering scenic views and a chance to sip wine or beer, with the crew providing commentary on the coastline’s natural features.

One of the more exciting parts is the snorkeling stop in a secluded bay—a highlight for many. You’ll be equipped with snorkeling gear and encouraged to explore the calm, crystal-clear waters filled with colorful fish. While some reviews mention that the time for snorkeling might be a bit limited—about 50 minutes—it’s enough to get a good look at the underwater world, especially if you’re comfortable in the water.

Finally, the trip winds down with a champagne tasting and more scenic cruising, giving you a last chance to relax and take in the views before returning to the marina and your transportation back to Costa Adeje.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point & Pickup

The experience kicks off at Pantalan 3 Marina del Sur, with an optional pickup service from Costa Adeje’s X-Sur shopping center, where you’ll be picked up in a compact Mercedes Vito minibus about 40 minutes before departure. It’s a small, convenient way to start your day.

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Las Galletas & Palm-Mar

These initial cruising points are all about setting the mood. You’ll marvel at coastlines dotted with caves and cliffs, with the crew providing insights into the geography and marine environment. This quiet, scenic passage is ideal for taking photos and settling into the relaxed rhythm of the tour.

Los Cristianos & Whale Watching

This is the core activity—looking for whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Reviewers consistently mention seeing pods of pilot whales and playful dolphins, often very close to the boat. The crew’s knowledge enhances the experience, making it both fun and educational. If marine life is your main goal, this part will likely be the highlight.

Snorkeling in a Remote Bay

The underwater stop is a chance to float among colorful fish in pristine waters. The crew supplies snorkeling gear, and the calm bay ensures a safe environment. Be aware, though, that the duration might feel a bit short if you’re eager to spend more time underwater, but it’s enough to get a glimpse of the sea life.

Scenic Return & Champagne Tasting

The trip concludes with a scenic cruise back to the harbor, often with a glass of champagne in hand. It’s a relaxing way to reflect on the day’s sightings and enjoy the coastline’s natural beauty one last time.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Many reviews praise the professional crew, often mentioning their friendliness and knowledge. The guides’ enthusiasm and genuine care make the experience memorable, whether it’s helping with seasickness, sharing fun facts, or making sure everyone feels included.

The luxury yacht adds a sense of occasion—comfortable lounges, ample space, and a nice deck for sunbathing or relaxing with a drink. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and tasty tapas elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a proper leisure experience. The food, often described as delicious and well-presented, complements the scenic views perfectly.

The wildlife sightings are a major draw. Multiple reviews mention seeing pilot whales and dolphins within the first part of the trip, with many describing the moments as “unbelievable” or “close-up.” The high-speed motors are designed to maximize wildlife encounters, which many travelers appreciate.

The snorkeling stop, though relatively brief, is often cited as a highlight—especially when combined with the chance to relax in a calm, scenic bay. The transparent waters and colorful fish give a real sense of escaping into an underwater world, even if just for a quick swim.

Analyzing the Value

At roughly $91 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s not just about catching a glimpse of whales; it’s about enjoying a carefully curated, comfortable experience. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and scenic cruising means you get more than just a boat ride—you get a small luxury escape.

While some reviews mention that the trip could be a little longer—particularly the snorkeling part—they still agree it’s excellent value. The small group size and personalized service make it feel exclusive without the hefty price tag of private charters.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can affect the trip. If the sea is choppy or the weather adverse, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons. It’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want to combine wildlife watching with comfort and scenic beauty without the crowds found on larger vessels. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, good food, and some time in the water. Since it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s better suited to adults or older children comfortable in the water and on boats.

If you’re looking for a romantic day, a peaceful escape, or a unique way to see Tenerife’s coastline, this tour hits the mark. But if you’re prone to seasickness or want an action-packed, longer expedition, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the calm waters and scenic cruise can be enjoyable for older children. Check with the provider about age restrictions or suitability for younger kids.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes the yacht cruise, snacks, drinks (including unlimited wine and beer), snorkeling gear, and the crew’s guidance. Pickup and drop-off from Costa Adeje are also included.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 3 hours, with various stops including whale watching, snorkeling, and scenic cruising. The actual activity time varies depending on conditions.

Is there a snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included. You can snorkel in a remote, calm bay with colorful fish, weather permitting.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and sunscreen, especially if you plan to sunbathe. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, all tours are subject to weather conditions. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, everything described—food, drinks, snorkeling gear—is included in the ticket price. Hotel pickup is not included.

How many people are on the boat?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 10 people, making it intimate and less crowded.

Is seasickness a concern?
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before the trip, as the boat may be subject to choppy waters, especially with high-speed motors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful, high-end day on Tenerife’s waters, this yacht trip checks many boxes. From wildlife sightings to scenic coastlines and relaxing onboard amenities, it offers a well-rounded experience that feels both special and genuine. The knowledgeable crew, quality food, and small-group intimacy create a comfortable environment where you can truly unwind.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a balance of wildlife spotting and leisure, without the hustle of larger boat operations. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion, seeking a taste of luxury, or simply wanting to enjoy Tenerife from the sea in style.

While it might not be the best choice if seasickness is a concern or if you’re looking for a long, adventure-packed day, it’s hard to find many downsides. Just remember to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. Overall, a lovely option to add to your Tenerife itinerary if you value comfort, wildlife, and scenic beauty.

Happy sailing and whale watching!

You can check availability for your dates here: