Private sailboat charter – coastal tour with snorkeling in the bay

Exploring the Canary Islands by Sailboat: A Practical Review of the Coastal Tour with Snorkeling

Thinking about adding a touch of maritime adventure to your Tenerife trip? This private sailboat tour along the Costa Adeje offers an intimate way to see the island from the water, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your travel style.

What really appeals to us about this tour is its flexibility—it’s a private ride, which means you won’t be crowded with strangers. Plus, the focus on snorkeling in hidden bays and the inclusive amenities make it feel like a personalized escape. On the flip side, the tour’s duration is just three hours, so if you’re craving a full day at sea, this might feel a little short.

This experience seems well-suited for travelers who value a relaxed, scenic outing with a small group or family, and those who want to see Tenerife from a different angle. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this private sailboat trip a worthwhile option—and where it might fall short.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and intimate experience with a maximum of 11 passengers on a quality Jeanneau Sun Odyssey sailboat.
• Snorkeling in secluded bays offers a chance to see local marine life in crystal-clear waters.
• Comfort and convenience are prioritized with amenities like a shaded area, toilet, fridge, and paddleboard.
• The shorter duration (3 hours) makes it ideal for a quick, scenic escape rather than a full-day adventure.
• Knowledgeable guides help keep the experience engaging and safe, especially for families or first-timers.
• Flexible stops based on weather and guest preferences allow for a more personalized outing.

Setting the Scene: The Experience Overview

If you’re considering this private coastal tour in Tenerife, you’re probably looking for a more personalized, relaxed way to enjoy the sea. Starting from Puerto Colon in Costa Adeje, the trip takes you along the coast, with beautiful views of the island’s rugged shoreline and volcanic landscapes. The boat itself, an 11.5-meter Jeanneau Sun Odyssey, is comfortable enough to accommodate your group without feeling cramped, making it suitable for up to 11 guests.

What makes this tour stand out is its private nature. Unlike large group excursions, you get the chance to tailor the experience somewhat, asking for specific stops or activities if weather permits. The boat is well-equipped, with an awning for shade, a toilet, and a fridge for drinks, which is a thoughtful touch during the warm Tenerife days. There’s also a paddleboard on board, giving you the option to practice your balance or just float around when anchored.

This experience is not just about sightseeing—it’s about enjoying the sea in a relaxed, laid-back manner, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and simply soaking up the sun. From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides, particularly skippers like Alex, add a lot of value by keeping the group engaged and making the trip accessible for all ages.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off from Puerto Colón, a popular starting point for boat trips in Costa Adeje. You’ll head out along the coast, with the exact route depending on weather conditions and your preferences. The main stops are typically Playa de Diego Hernandez or Pal Mar, both known for their wild, less crowded nature. These spots are perfect for a peaceful escape and awesome snorkeling.

For about an hour, your group will anchor in these hidden bays, which are often too tricky to access by land and tend to be less frequented by travelers. During this anchor time, you’ll have multiple options: snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, enjoying a swim, or just relaxing on the boat. The snorkeling gear, goggles, and snorkels provided make it easy for everyone to join in, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or trying it for the first time.

The boat’s shade is a welcome feature, especially during midday, helping you stay comfortable as you soak up the sun and views. The paddleboard adds an extra element of fun, giving you a chance to test your balance or explore the nearby coastline from a different perspective.

The trip wraps up back at Puerto Colón after about three hours, leaving you enough time to continue exploring or relax for the rest of the day.

The Value of the Experience

For roughly the cost of a typical half-day outing, this tour offers a personalized adventure that’s perfect for small groups or families looking for a laid-back escape. The private nature means fewer compromises and the ability to focus on what interests your group most—be it snorkeling, taking photos of the coast, or just unwinding on the boat.

Given the positive feedback—such as Bob from the UK mentioning that the skipper “Alex was engaging and really helped keep the children involved”—it’s clear that the guides are good at making everyone feel looked after. This is especially important if you’re traveling with kids or anyone new to snorkeling or boat trips.

The tour’s flexibility, combined with amenities like a fridge for drinks and a shaded area, definitely adds to the perceived value. It’s a quick, focused experience that lets you enjoy the sea without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

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Practical Considerations

While this tour offers a lot, there are some things to keep in mind. For starters, the three-hour duration works well if you’re short on time or want a brief but memorable trip. But if you’re craving a full day at sea, you might find this a bit limited.

Weather can influence the stops—if the waters are rough or if certain bays aren’t accessible, the guide will choose alternate spots. This flexibility is good but means you should be prepared for some variation.

The boat has a capacity of 11, which keeps things intimate, but if you’re traveling in a larger group, you’ll need to book multiple trips or look for larger vessels. Also, keep in mind the tour’s rules—no high heels, smoking indoors, or glass objects—so plan accordingly.

Pricing wise, this is a premium for a private, guided experience, but the quality of amenities and personalized attention justify the cost for many travelers. Plus, with the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s easy to lock in your spot without immediate commitment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a relaxed, private day out on the water. If you’re interested in snorkeling in less crowded spots, enjoying scenic views, and having a knowledgeable guide at your side, you’ll likely find this experience very satisfying.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate comfort and amenities—like shade, toilets, and paddleboards—while still wanting to keep the adventure informal and fun. However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure or more adrenaline-filled activities, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Choice for You?

If you’re after a personalized, comfortable, and scenic sailing trip in Tenerife, this private coastal tour ticks many boxes. It offers a chance to escape the crowds, snorkel in pristine waters, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island from the water—without the hassle of large groups or rigid schedules.

The positive reviews, especially regarding the skipper’s engagement and the quality of the snorkeling stops, speak to its appeal. You’ll love the views, the ease of the amenities, and the flexibility to customize your time on the water.

However, keep in mind that it’s a shorter trip—so if you’re after a full-day adventure or highly active pursuits, this might not be enough. Still, for a relaxing, intimate experience with excellent value, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the positive review mentioning children suggests it can be family-friendly, especially with a focus on snorkeling and relaxed activities.

What is included in the tour?
Snorkeling gear, goggles, snorkels, paddleboard, an awning for shade, a toilet, and a fridge for drinks are provided.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later with the flexible booking option. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

How long is the tour?
The ride lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Gate 2 Puerto Colon, Costa Adeje, with coordinates 28.0780029296875, -16.736915588378906.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey is suitable for up to 11 passengers, with amenities like shade, a toilet, and a fridge.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary depends on weather conditions; the guide will choose the best spots on the day, and the experience can be flexible.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
High-heeled shoes, smoking indoors, glass objects, and littering are not allowed to ensure safety and comfort.

Can I bring my own drinks?
The boat has a fridge for drinks, so you can likely bring your own, but confirm with the operator about any restrictions.

What’s the best time to go?
Check availability for starting times; generally, mid-morning to early afternoon offers good weather for snorkeling and relaxing.

This private sailboat tour offers a wonderful way to enjoy Tenerife’s coastal beauty in a relaxed, personalized setting. Whether you’re new to sailing or just looking for a peaceful day at sea, it’s worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: