From San Juan beach : Marine Life Cruise

Thinking about adding a boat trip to your Tenerife itinerary? The Marine Life Cruise from San Juan Beach offers a laid-back, nature-focused experience that’s perfect if you’re into seeing dolphins, whales, and all kinds of sea creatures. It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate a relaxed, small-group vibe and want some insight into the local marine environment without the fuss of big, commercial tours.

What we really like about this cruise is how it combines animal watching with opportunities for snorkeling—if the water’s cooperating. Plus, having a knowledgeable captain who’s familiar with the local fauna makes a difference. On the flip side, some folks might find the 3-hour duration a bit short, especially if they’re hoping for a longer sailing adventure. This tour works best for travelers who want a quick, engaging taste of Tenerife’s marine life without breaking the bank.

This experience suits nature lovers, families, or anyone curious about marine ecosystems who values a smaller, more personal tour. It’s not a luxury voyage, but for the price, you’re getting a lot of value—especially with the included drinks and friendly guide.

Key Points

• Easy to Book & Flexible: Reserve in advance, cancel up to 24 hours ahead for full refund.
• Short & Sweet: 3-hour cruise ideal for a quick marine encounter.
• Wildlife Focused: Expect lots of dolphins, whales, turtles, and other sea life.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Captain provides scientific and local insights during the trip.
• Snorkeling Options: Masks are provided, but water conditions may affect snorkeling.
• Comfort & Convenience: Small boat, friendly crew, drinks included, casual attire recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Marine Life Cruise

If you’re dreaming of spotting dolphins or whales during your Tenerife trip, this cruise might be just what you need. Starting from Puerto Playa San Juan, one of the last traditional fishing ports on the island, the boat embarks on a roughly three-hour journey into the waters south of La Gomera. The goal? To connect with marine creatures in their natural habitat—no artificial attractions here.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The tour kicks off with a comfortable boat ready to set sail, designed to create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages a genuine bond with the sea. The crew, including the captain, is well-versed in marine fauna and local history, which adds a layer of education to the experience. Expect to learn about the abundant and diverse marine life of the area—whales, dolphins, turtles, flying fish, sardines, and even tuna schools.

After heading about 1,000 meters from shore, you’ll enter the zone known as the “Calderón Tropical” or “Pilot Whale” area. This is where most of the magic happens, and where sightings are most common. From reviews, it seems that dolphin encounters are frequent—some travelers describe dolphins swimming right beneath the boat, sometimes just inches from the hull. That’s always a thrill and makes for fantastic photos.

The Experience on the Water

Once out at sea, the crew takes care of everyone, offering snorkeling masks for those interested in exploring underwater. While water conditions may vary—water might be too warm or too still to enable snorkeling—it’s always worth trying if you’re keen. The small size of the boat creates an intimate setting, so it’s easy to ask questions and get personalized attention.

You’ll spend time enjoying the views of Tenerife’s spectacular coastline and nearby islands, along with hearing about the island’s geography, volcanic history, and sea life. It’s a mix of education and entertainment, and the guides tend to be enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

What’s Included & What To Bring

The tour provides sandwiches and drinks—including soft drinks and some wines—which is a nice touch, especially after the excitement of spotting a pod of dolphins. Bringing a hat, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear will help make your trip more enjoyable. Keep in mind that smoking, feeding animals, fireworks, or any explosive substances aren’t allowed onboard, maintaining respect for the environment.

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The Price & Overall Value

At around $74 per person, this cruise offers decent value for a short, wildlife-focused boat trip. It’s not a full-day adventure, but it gets you out on the water with a good chance of seeing marine mammals. The inclusion of drinks and a light snack makes it feel like a well-rounded experience without extra costs.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler mentioned, “We really enjoyed the boat trip. Lots of dolphins around the boat. Some of them even swimming right below the nose of the boat. Great experience and very nice guide!” That’s pretty typical of the positive reviews—people love the sightings and the friendly, knowledgeable guides.

However, not every experience is perfect. Some reviews highlight minor frustrations, such as a misleading upgrade offer—a traveler mentioned, “We convinced to upgrade from 4 hours to 3 hours but turned out the trip was still 3 hours with an extra hour at the port eating a sandwich.” It’s worth noting that the trip might not be as long as some hope, and the “extra hour on the port” might feel like a bit of a letdown.

Another reviewer pointed out the water was too warm for snorkeling, which can happen and isn’t something the tour can control. Still, they appreciated the small group, which made spotting animals easier and provided a more personal experience.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re seeking an easy, affordable way to see dolphins and possibly whales in their natural environment. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a relaxed day at sea without the pressure of a long or high-cost tour. If you’re curious about marine life and enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

That said, if your main goal is extensive snorkeling or whale watching, you might find this tour a bit on the short side. It’s more about brief encounters and appreciating the scenery.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a quick but immersive experience on the water.

What is included in the price?
You get a 3-hour boat cruise, sandwiches, and drinks like soft drinks and wines. Masks for snorkeling are also provided.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

Is snorkeling guaranteed?
Not necessarily. Masks are provided, but water conditions may vary, and snorkeling depends on the weather and water temperature.

Who guides the trip?
An experienced captain and crew lead the tour, offering insights into the local fauna and geography, with guides speaking English and Spanish.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the trip’s relaxed nature and focus on wildlife viewing make it generally suitable for older children and families, especially those comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Don’t forget a sense of curiosity and patience—marine wildlife can be unpredictable.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a short, friendly, and wildlife-rich boat trip in Tenerife, the Marine Life Cruise from San Juan hits the right notes. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see dolphins and possibly whales without fuss, enjoy some local drinks, and learn a bit about the marine environment from passionate guides. While it’s not a long expedition, the small-group setup and emphasis on natural encounters make it a memorable addition to your Tenerife adventures.

It’s a tour that respects the environment and offers genuine chances to witness the island’s marine treasures. Just keep expectations realistic about the length and snorkeling—this is primarily a wildlife-watching trip, not an all-day aquatic adventure. For those seeking a laid-back, authentic, and well-priced experience, this cruise is worth considering.

Enjoy your trip, and here’s hoping you catch some impressive dolphin shows. Cheers!

You can check availability for your dates here: