Tenerife: Puerto Colon Snorkel Safari by Speed Boat

Tenerife: Puerto Colon Snorkel Safari by Speed Boat — An Honest Review

If you’re looking for a quick, fun way to explore Tenerife’s coast and see some of its marine wonders, a snorkel safari by speed boat might be just what you need. We’ve come across this tour and want to share what makes it a compelling option—and where it might not be perfect. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, you’ll find some real value in this experience.

Two things we especially appreciate are the small group size—which tends to mean more personalized attention—and the knowledgeable guides who help you feel safe and confident. On the flip side, the short duration of around two and a half hours** might leave some eager explorers wanting more. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, engaging aquatic adventure without the fuss of lengthy trips or diving certifications.

In this review, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect, highlight the key features, and give some honest insights so you can decide if this snorkel safari fits your Tenerife itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Short but sweet: The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, ideal for a quick ocean escape.
• Inclusive gear: Wetsuits, fins, masks, and lifejackets are provided, making it straightforward for all levels.
• Marine encounters: Potential to see turtles, stingrays, cuttlefish, and plenty of colorful fish.
• Small group benefits: Limited to 9 participants, offering a more intimate experience.
• Comfortable boat ride: A 15-minute speedboat trip takes you to a secluded bay perfect for snorkeling.
• Tour quality: Guided by multilingual instructors, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

What is the Tenerife Snorkel Safari Like?

Starting Point and Convenience

The adventure kicks off from Puerto Colón, a popular and accessible area in Tenerife. You won’t need to worry about complicated pickups since most participants meet directly at the departure point. The small group size means you’ll get more attention and a relaxed atmosphere—no overcrowding here.

Safety First

Once onboard, you’ll receive a brief safety instruction—a necessary step that makes even nervous swimmers feel more at ease. Lifejackets are available, especially helpful if you’re a weaker swimmer, and the guides are multilingual—speaking English, Spanish, French, and Italian—to ensure clear communication.

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The Speedboat Ride

In just 15 minutes, you’ll cruise along the coast to a secluded bay. This short trip provides some lovely views of Tenerife’s southern shoreline and gets you out to calmer waters where snorkeling is most enjoyable. The boat itself is comfortable enough for groups of up to nine, and the trip is quick enough to keep everyone excited without feeling long or tiring.

Snorkeling in Clear Waters

Once you arrive at the chosen spot, your guides will help you gear up with wetsuits, masks, and fins (all provided). The snorkeling session lasts about 50 minutes, offering plenty of time to explore the underwater world. The water is described as crystal-clear and warm, making it both pleasant and visually rewarding.

During this time, you can expect to see marine wildlife such as turtles, stingrays, cuttlefish, and various fish species. The guides often stay close to help spot the creatures and assist less experienced snorkelers. As one reviewer pointed out, their guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Return Trip

After the snorkeling, you’ll hop back onto the speedboat for the 15-minute return to Puerto Colón, allowing you to reflect on your marine adventures or just enjoy the scenic ride back.

The Real Value of This Tour

Cost and What You Get

At $44 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. Included in the price are speedboat transport and snorkeling gear, which means you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment unless you prefer to. The gear includes wetsuits, fins, and masks, with life jackets available—important for comfort and safety.

Who Will Love It?

This trip is well-suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a quick, fun ocean experience. It’s especially good for those interested in marine life but not looking for a lengthy or intensive activity. If you’re seeking a relaxing yet adventurous way to see Tenerife’s coast and possibly spot turtles, this tour ticks those boxes.

Would We Do It Again?

Based on reviews, many participants had a positive experience, especially praising the guides and the chance to see marine animals. Some mentioned that they saw a variety of fish and rays, and a few even caught glimpses of turtles. However, one review noted they didn’t see turtles on their trip, which highlights that wildlife sightings can be a bit hit or miss.

The Experience: What to Expect

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Puerto Colón: Easy to access, a lively hub for boat tours.
• Safety Briefing: Quick but comprehensive instructions ensure everyone is prepared.
• Speedboat Ride: A scenic, 15-minute cruise along Tenerife’s southern coast.
• Snorkeling Time: About an hour in a secluded, calm bay, ideal for spotting marine life.
• Return to Base: Relaxing ride back, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery and wind down.

What Makes It Special

The guides’ friendliness and knowledge really stand out, according to reviews. They help less confident snorkelers and keep things lighthearted, making the experience accessible for most. The secluded bay offers calmer waters than the busy beaches, which is perfect for snorkeling and spotting wildlife without the crowds.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration—at just 2.5 hours, it’s a snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re eager to spend hours underwater or want a broader marine adventure, this might feel a little brief. Also, wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, which can be disappointing if you’re hoping to see certain animals like turtles.

The Practical Details

Price and Value

$44 per person covers most essentials—gear, transport, and guidance. It’s a reasonable price for the quality and intimacy of the small group setting. Keep in mind that photos and videos are available to purchase afterward, which can be a nice way to relive your trip but will add to the cost.

Duration and Timing

At 2.5 hours, the tour offers a quick but fulfilling experience. Check availability for start times that suit your schedule, as they vary. Morning or early afternoon trips tend to be popular for calm waters and good visibility.

Group Size

Limited to 9 participants, this small group experience allows for more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. It’s a nice change from larger tours where you might feel lost in the crowd.

Additional Info

• Remember to bring swimwear and a towel.
• Life jackets are provided, especially helpful for weak swimmers.
• The tour is offered in multiple languages, ensuring clear communication.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkel safari is ideal if you’re looking for a short, guided ocean adventure that doesn’t require much prior experience. It’s perfect for first-time snorkelers or those who want a fun, relaxed way to connect with Tenerife’s marine environment. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine a scenic boat ride with snorkeling but don’t have the time or desire for a full-day tour.

It’s well-suited for travelers who prioritize safety, comfort, and small group intimacy. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy marine wildlife are likely to find this experience rewarding.

Final Thoughts

If you value personalized attention, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to see marine wildlife up close, this Tenerife speed boat snorkel safari offers a compelling option. The short trip, combined with the beautiful scenery and warm waters, makes it a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the coast without committing to a long day.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the overall experience—friendly guides, stunning views, and the thrill of floating above marine life—makes it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife plans. Keep in mind the limited time if you’re looking for a detailed underwater exploration, but for a quick, engaging ocean outing, this hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience involves snorkeling with provided gear and a short boat ride, which generally suits older children and teenagers. Life jackets are available for weaker swimmers, making it more accessible.

Do I need my own snorkeling equipment?
No, all essential gear like wetsuits, fins, and masks are provided onboard, so you can just focus on enjoying the water.

How long does the snorkeling last?
Expect around 50 minutes of snorkeling in the designated bay, giving you ample time to see marine life and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Can I see turtles on this tour?
While many reviews mention the possibility of seeing turtles, sightings are not guaranteed. Some groups do see them, but it depends on the day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers speedboat transport, snorkeling gear, and life jackets if needed. Photos and videos are optional extras to purchase later.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, as with most outdoor activities, weather conditions can influence the trip. Calm seas and good visibility are ideal, so check local weather forecasts before booking.

In all, this snorkeling adventure offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to get out on the water, see Tenerife from a different perspective, and maybe encounter some of its hidden marine treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: