Snorkeling Tour with Sea Turtles and Stingrays

If you’re dreaming of getting closer to Tenerife’s vibrant marine life, a snorkeling tour with sea turtles and stingrays might just be the highlight of your trip. While full-on diving might be too much for some, this experience offers a fantastic chance to see the ocean’s softer side in a relaxed, small-group setting.

What we love about this tour is how it combines coastal sightseeing with intimate encounters beneath the waves. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to just six people really means you get personalized attention from the guides, making the whole adventure more enjoyable. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that wild animals aren’t guaranteed to appear—particularly the turtles, which are in their natural habitat.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a manageable, safe, and memorable introduction to Tenerife’s underwater life. If you’re comfortable swimming and looking for a small-group experience that balances fun and education, this might be just the right fit. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this snorkeling trip worthwhile—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 people, ensuring an intimate, personalized adventure.
• Marine Encounters: Swim with sea turtles and stingrays, with high hopes but no guarantees.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Cruise along Tenerife’s volcanic coastline for stunning scenery.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable instructors provide safety instructions and share marine insights.
• Photos Included: Receive free pictures to remember your underwater moments.
• Flexible Booking: Hotel pickup available depending on your location, making logistics easier.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour kicks off at the Marina South in Las Galletas, where you’ll meet your guide and board a boat heading toward the protected waters near Malpais de Rasca. The boat ride alone offers a lovely view of Tenerife’s rugged coast and volcanic landscape, setting the perfect scene for your underwater adventure.

Once you arrive at the snorkeling spot, the real fun begins. Your professional freediving instructor will give clear instructions to ensure everyone feels confident, regardless of your experience level. With wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins provided, all you need to bring is your enthusiasm and a swimsuit.

The snorkeling session lasts about an hour, during which you’ll have the chance to swim amidst coral, fish, and hopefully, see the famed sea turtles and stingrays. The guides are respectful of the marine environment, emphasizing responsible behavior to protect the animals and their habitat.

After the swim, you’ll cruise back along the coast, taking in more of Tenerife’s volcanic scenery. Throughout the tour, guides often share interesting facts about the marine life and the geography of the region, making it not just fun but also educational.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Small Group Size Means Personal Attention

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is how it limits groups to just six people. This creates a comfortable environment where guides can give personalized tips and ensure everyone’s safety. As one traveler put it, “we only had four people, so it was a truly unique experience.”

The Chance to Swim with Sea Turtles and Stingrays

While observing these creatures in their natural environment, you might feel a rush of excitement. Several reviews mention the high probability of seeing turtles, though it’s not guaranteed—the animals are wild and free. Still, many guests report successful encounters, with guides taking photos and sharing educational insights.

Scenic Coastal and Volcanic Views

The boat ride along the coast offers stunning sights of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape from a new perspective. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty before diving into the water.

Professional and Respectful Guides

Guides like Angela and Elio receive praise for their expertise and friendliness. They not only bring you to the best snorkeling spots but also enhance the experience with their knowledge and care for the environment. One reviewer mentioned that the guides even took them to see dolphins, adding extra excitement.

Photos as a Memorable Keepsake

The tour includes free photos taken during the activity, which many travelers appreciate. These snapshots allow you to relive the experience long after you leave Tenerife, especially since capturing these moments on your own can be tricky.

What to Expect During the Tour

The process begins with a morning pickup (if arranged) or meeting at the marina. Once on board, the boat cruise offers a relaxed atmosphere, often with light refreshments to start the adventure.

At the snorkeling site, the instructor provides clear, easy-to-follow safety instructions, emphasizing respectful interaction with marine life. The wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins are all provided, easing the stress of gear rental or purchase.

You’ll have about an hour in the water, swimming with marine life that includes sea turtles and stingrays. Most reviews highlight how close and personal the animals get, making it an unforgettable experience. However, some mention that sightings aren’t guaranteed—so patience and a little luck are part of the package.

After your underwater exploration, the boat heads back, giving you more chances to admire the rugged coastline and volcanic formations. The guides often share insights about Tenerife’s geology and marine ecosystem, adding depth to your trip.

The Practical Details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including boat ride and snorkeling.

Price: $79.79 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the small group size, gear included, and photos provided.

Group Size: Max 6 people, ensuring an intimate experience.

Start Time: 9:00 am — a good morning start that leaves plenty of time for the rest of your day.

Included: Wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, boat trip, experienced instructor, insurance, and photos.

Not Included: Video footage (available to purchase).

Meeting Point: Marina South, Las Galletas — close to public transportation, making it straightforward to reach.

Additional Info: You must be able to swim, be at least 8 years old, and bring a towel and swimsuit. Hotel pickup might be available depending on your location.

Real Traveler Insights

Many reviewers emphasize the personalized nature of this tour. Julia described it as a “really wonderful” experience with plenty of time for snorkeling, and being in a small group made it feel special. Others appreciated the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge, with Chiara highlighting the “fantastic experience” and the chance to see dolphins nearby.

A notable point is the disappointment some felt when turtles or stingrays weren’t sighted. One reviewer expressed that it was sad not to see the animals, but the high likelihood and the effort of the guides still made it worthwhile. This honesty is helpful—marine animals are in their natural habitat, so sightings can’t be guaranteed, but the effort and professionalism often shine through.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling experience suits those who value small, personal groups and want to maximize their chances of close-up marine encounters. It’s perfect for travelers comfortable in the water and eager to learn from knowledgeable guides in a respectful, eco-conscious manner.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and educational adventure with an emphasis on wildlife, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of fun, learning, and natural beauty. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate well-organized activities with included photos, making it easy to remember your underwater moments.

However, if your main goal is a guaranteed animal sighting or a longer, more immersive diving experience, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a quick, intimate glimpse into Tenerife’s marine life, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be at least 8 years old and able to swim. It’s a great activity for families with kids who are comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, and any personal items you might need. The wetsuit, mask, snorkel, and fins are provided.

How long is the snorkeling part?
The actual snorkeling lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the marine life.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are photos included?
Yes, the guides take photos during the trip and send them to you afterward at no extra cost.

Is hotel pick-up available?
Depending on your location, hotel pick-up might be arranged for added convenience.

If you’re after a small-group, eco-conscious snorkeling tour that delivers a good shot at encountering Tenerife’s sea turtles and stingrays, this one offers a great balance of adventure and comfort. With expert guides and scenic views, it’s a flexible option for travelers looking for a memorable marine experience—just keep in mind the animal sightings are never guaranteed, but the journey is often just as rewarding.