If you’re dreaming of seeing Tenerife from a new perspective without the fuss of needing a boat license, this rent a boat with no license, self-drive experience might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a chance to feel like the Captain of your own ship, even if you’ve never stepped behind a wheel of a boat before. The idea is straightforward—and honestly, quite appealing—especially if you prefer a relaxed, intimate outing on the water.
What we love about this experience? First, it offers freedom to explore at your own pace, drifting into hidden coves and taking in views few get to enjoy. Second, the inclusion of all essentials like gasoline, a GPS, and music makes it pretty stress-free. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the trip lasts only 1 to 2 hours, which might feel brief if you’re eager to spend a full afternoon out. It’s best suited for those who want a quick, memorable escape rather than an all-day adventure.
If you’re after a relaxed, family-friendly outing or simply want to see Tenerife’s coast from an angle that’s both beautiful and manageable, this tour might be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy the idea of sailing freely and discovering spotless coves like Montaña Amarilla or the Rasca lighthouse, with plenty of chances to snorkel or spot dolphins. Let’s break down what makes this experience worth considering.
Key Points

- No license required—perfect for beginners or those without boating experience.
- Short duration (1-2 hours) makes it a flexible, quick outing.
- All essentials included—gasoline, GPS, cooler, music—so no hidden extra costs.
- Beautiful scenery—you’ll see Tenerife’s coast, coves, and even the Teide from the sea.
- Guided experience with explanations of navigation, plus freedom to explore.
- Weather and safety considerations—bring your ID, cash, and be aware of age and pregnancy restrictions.
What to Expect from This Tenerife Boat Experience

Imagine setting out on a luxury boat, feeling the sun on your face, and steering along Tenerife’s coast—sounds pretty good, right? This experience offers a self-drive boat that allows you to take the helm if you’re comfortable, or simply relax as you cruise along the waters. The key highlights include exploring the hidden gems of Montaña Amarilla and the Rasca lighthouse, both of which are iconic landmarks along Tenerife’s southern coast.
The tour lasts between 1 and 2 hours, so it’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to make the most of your day. You’ll start from the meeting point, which can vary depending on your booking, and end back where you began. During the trip, you can anchor in peaceful coves to snorkel, swim, or just soak in the scenery—there’s even a cooler box for drinks and Bluetooth music to set the mood.
The experience is quite flexible; you’re free to explore at your own pace, but the guided explanations of navigation mean you won’t be left entirely to your own devices. Gasoline is included in the price, which simplifies budgeting; no need to worry about extra charges for fuel or equipment.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Tenerife
The Highlights of This Self-Drive Tour

Discover Tenerife’s Hidden Coves
The real charm of this experience lies in finding the quiet spots away from crowds. Montaña Amarilla, with its striking yellow cliffs, is a favorite stop to snorkel and marvel at the clear waters. The Rasca lighthouse is another iconic landmark, offering a fantastic backdrop for photos and a chance to appreciate Tenerife from a different angle.
Freedom to Explore
Because you’re in charge, you can choose where to anchor, how long to stay, and whether to take a dip or just enjoy the views. The boat is equipped with a sunshade—perfect for staying cool—and a Bluetooth speaker so you can listen to your favorite tunes while bobbing in the water.
More Great Tours NearbyFamily-Friendly and Easy to Access
While this tour isn’t suitable for very young children or pregnant women, it’s a good option for families with older kids, couples, or friends. It’s a laid-back way to enjoy the coast without needing prior boating experience, and the included explanations help you feel confident at the wheel.
Authentic and Relaxed Atmosphere
From the reviews, it’s clear that the experience is well-organized and friendly. Both Lorena and Angelo mention how smoothly everything went, praising the well-maintained boat and helpful staff. Lorena even expressed a desire to rent for longer next time—a sign that this can be a real highlight of a Tenerife trip if you’re looking to relax and explore.
The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and What’s Included

Costing around $146 per group (up to 2 people), this experience offers a cost-effective way to enjoy Tenerife’s coastline. For what it includes—gasoline, GPS, a cooler, music, and a sunshade—it’s quite good value. You won’t have to worry about hidden fees or extra charges for fuel, which makes planning easier.
Since the tour lasts 1 to 2 hours, it’s easy to slot into a busy itinerary. Whether you want a quick escape or a more relaxed, leisurely outing, you can check availability for your preferred time slot. The experience is flexible enough to fit into your plans, and with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you’ve got peace of mind.
You’ll need to bring your passport or ID, a credit card or cash, and a towel if you plan to swim. Remember, the deposit (refundable) is just €200 or equivalent in cash/card, protecting the boat during your trip.
How It Fits Into Your Tenerife Trip

This self-drive boat tour makes a fantastic addition if you’re in Tenerife for a few days and want a change of pace from land-based activities. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy being out on the water, but aren’t necessarily experienced sailors or boaters. If you’re traveling with someone who loves exploring or simply cherishes scenic views, this can be a memorable highlight.
While it’s not tailored for very young children or pregnant women, older kids and teenagers who enjoy watersports and adventure will likely have a blast. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins during your sailing—though not guaranteed—adds a touch of magic to the trip.
Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Worth It?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and flexible way to see Tenerife’s coast, this no-license, self-drive boat experience delivers. It’s an easy, affordable way to enjoy the sea, feel like a captain, and explore stunning coves and landmarks at your own pace. The reviews suggest it’s well-organized, fun, and a good value for the money.
While it’s not a full-day adventure, that’s part of what makes it appealing—short enough to fit into a busy schedule but memorable enough to leave a lasting impression. The opportunity to snorkel, listen to music, and enjoy the views make it a solid choice for those seeking a laid-back marine escape.
If you love the idea of seeing Tenerife from the water, discovering quiet spots, and doing so without the hassle of licensing or complex arrangements, this tour is definitely worth considering.
Rent a Boat with No License, Self Drive
“I loved! A very different experience from everyday life. I also thanked instructor Hélio for being so helpful and friendly. Next time I might rent…”
FAQ

Do I need a boat license to take part in this tour?
No, this experience is designed specifically for those without a license. It’s a self-drive boat that’s suitable for beginners.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on your booking and preference.
What’s included in the price?
Gasoline, GPS navigation system, a sunshade, cooler box, and Bluetooth music are all included. There are no extra charges for fuel.
Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, you can snorkel in the coves, especially around Montaña Amarilla, which is known for its clear waters.
Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or children under 18, and pregnant women should avoid it. It’s best suited for older kids and adults.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point varies based on your booking, but the trip ends back at the same location.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your passport or ID, a credit card or cash for the deposit, and a towel if you plan to swim.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
In the end, this self-drive boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Tenerife’s coast—without the fuss of licenses or complicated arrangements. Whether you’re wanting a quick adventure or a peaceful day on the water, it’s definitely worth thinking about if you’re visiting Tenerife and yearning for some sea air and stunning views.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Tenerife
- Private excursions for cruise-ship passengers
- Tenerife South: Parascending Experience with Boat Ride
- Tenerife Barranco de Masca: Guided hike + boat ride + transport
- Puerto Colon : Whale & Dolphins Sailing Excursion
- Tenerife: Whale Watching Boat Tour with a Marine Biologist
- Teno to Masca: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Teide Night Experience with Dinner and Stargazing
- Tenerife: Mt. Teide and Masca Valley Tour
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: PADI Introductory Dive
- Teide National Park: Landscapes and Viewpoints Private Tour
- Tenerife: Icod de los Vino, Garachico & Guachinche Tour
- 90-minute walking tour overlooking Barranco Ruiz, Tenerife
More Tenerife experiences we've covered
- Rent a Boat with No License, Self Drive
- Tenerife: Mt. Teide and Masca Valley Tour
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: PADI Introductory Dive
- Teide National Park: Landscapes and Viewpoints Private Tour
- Tenerife: Icod de los Vino, Garachico & Guachinche Tour
- 90-minute walking tour overlooking Barranco Ruiz, Tenerife
- Tenerife: Quad Sunset Volcano Teide National Park
- Tenerife: Mount Teide Quad Tour in Tenerife National Park
- Tenerife: QUAD excursion TEIDE volcano
- Private excursions for cruise-ship passengers
- Tenerife: Guided Off-Road Quad Tour on Mount Teide
- Ride the Atlantic Ocean



