Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of cruising along Tenerife’s stunning coast, spotting whales and dolphins, and enjoying some relaxing snorkeling, this tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into what makes this experience special, and honestly, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a blend of wildlife, comfort, and a touch of adventure. The reviews are glowing, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from over 600 travelers, which says quite a bit about its popularity and consistency.

What really appeals to us are how personal and well-organized the trip looks—small groups and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re not just another face on a boat. Plus, the combination of wildlife watching, snorkeling, and onboard snacks sounds like a well-rounded escape. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who appreciate expert guides, enjoy being on the water, and want a more intimate experience with Tenerife’s marine life. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative, and wildlife-rich outing, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances the personal experience and allows for closer wildlife encounters.
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge help you understand the marine environment and animals.
• Wildlife sightings of whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds are common and memorable.
• Snorkeling and swimming in warm waters add a fun, active element.
• Inclusive drinks and snacks make the trip comfortable and indulgent.
• Well-maintained sailboat with modern amenities offers both comfort and safety.
• Price point of $70 per person offers excellent value given the activities and expertise involved.
• Departure from Puerto Colón requires your own transportation arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tenerife Sailboat Tour

This three-hour adventure packs a lot into a small window, making it perfect for those with limited time or wanting a relaxed, yet adventure-filled outing. Starting at Roulette Charters, you’ll meet your crew at the dock of Puerto Colón, just a short stroll from the port parking area. Our review highlights that arriving a few minutes early is wise, especially since the meeting spot isn’t far from the main port entrance.

The Boat and Its Comforts

The sailboat itself is about 12 meters long, designed to comfortably seat up to 10 passengers plus crew. It features three double cabins, two bathrooms, and deck mats for lounging. From reviews, it’s clear that the boat is well-kept, clean, and comfortable—important factors when you’re spending precious hours on the water. The small size means fewer people and a more personal vibe, which lots of travelers seem to appreciate.

Wildlife Watching: Sightings That Stick

The core attraction here is spotting cetaceans, turtles, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Many reviews mention incredible moments with pilot whales swimming right up to the boat, sometimes interacting playfully with guests. One reviewer even described a group of pilot whales coming right to the vessel, creating an unforgettable moment. Guides are praised for their extensive knowledge of marine life, and their dedication to respectful observation—meaning they don’t chase or disturb the animals.

Dolphins are also frequently seen, often in large pods, with one guest noting they floated among a pod of 20-30 whales. Birds, including seagulls and other seabirds, add to the lively maritime atmosphere. The guides’ tips and stories make each sighting more meaningful, helping you understand what you’re seeing.

Snorkeling and Swimming Opportunities

A highlight for many is the chance to take a quick dip in the warm waters. The itinerary includes a stop at a beautiful bay, where you can snorkel with provided equipment. The reviews mention that there’s time for about 30 minutes of snorkeling, which is enough to see some marine life up close without feeling rushed.

Guests often note the shallow, clear waters make for enjoyable swimming and snorkeling. Plus, there’s a chance to explore caves or secluded spots along the coast—adding a bit of adventure to the trip.

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Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere Onboard

One of the biggest surprises is how well the onboard catering is received. Expect snacks, sandwiches, and desserts, with some reviews praising the quality and variety, often noting that the crew caters to dietary needs. Drinks are plentiful—soft drinks, mineral water, wine, cava, and beer are all included. Travelers repeatedly mention how the crew keeps everyone refreshed and comfortable, making the trip feel more like a leisurely cruise than a hurried excursion.

Guests have described the atmosphere as relaxed and friendly, with many appreciating the attention to detail from guides who are not only knowledgeable but also warm and welcoming. A particular highlight is the opportunity to sip cava while enjoying the sea views—such moments turn into treasured memories.

The Itinerary: A Day on the Water

While the trip is only 3 hours long, it’s thoughtfully designed to maximize wildlife sightings and leisure. Starting at Roulette Charters, travellers are transported to the south coast of Tenerife, near Puerto Colón—a convenient departure point.

The Main Stop: Wildlife and Snorkeling

The core part of the trip is a cruise along the coast with chances to spot whales and dolphins. The guides use their expertise to seek out cetaceans, and their passion is evident, making sightings feel special rather than routine. Many reviews mention how close and engaging these encounters are, often with animals swimming near the boat.

Swimming and Snorkeling Break

After wildlife viewing, the boat anchors at a calm bay for swimming and snorkeling. This is an ideal time to cool off, explore underwater, or just relax on deck. The shallow, transparent waters make for easy snorkeling, and the crew provides equipment, so no need to bring your own.

Return and Reflection

After about 30-45 minutes in the water, the boat heads back to Puerto Colón. Many guests comment on how this quick, balanced mix of activity and relaxation makes for a memorable day. The crew’s stories and local insights during transit are often highlighted as a bonus.

What the Reviews Tell Us

With over 600 reviews, the overall feedback paints a clear picture of an enjoyable, well-organized trip. Travelers frequently praise the knowledgeable crew for their passion and ability to spot wildlife, with one saying, “Salvador is a true marine biologist,” and another noting, “The skipper’s sheer enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge.” This passion translates into a more authentic experience, making wildlife sightings more meaningful.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants—shines through in reviews, with many saying it feels more intimate and less commercial than larger tours. This setup allows for better viewing opportunities and more personalized attention from guides.

People also love the food and drinks onboard—sandwiches, soft drinks, cava, beer, and even some desserts—considered good value for the price of $70. Many reviews mention the relaxing atmosphere, friendly guides, and the chance to learn about marine life while enjoying the ride.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few subtle points emerge. The trip doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to Puerto Colón. Also, some travelers mentioned that the waters can be choppy, so packing a seasickness remedy or a jacket might be wise, especially if you’re sensitive.

Who Should Book This Experience?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast who loves being on the water and values expert guides, this tour is a great fit. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a small, more personal adventure rather than a crowded, noisy boat ride. Families or groups who appreciate a relaxed pace, good food, and the chance to see dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural environment will find this trip especially rewarding.

It’s also well-suited for those who want a meaningful connection with nature, enjoy snorkeling, or simply want to relax with a drink in hand while watching the sunset. However, if your priority is hotel transportation or you prefer a larger, more energetic tour with activities like loud music, this might not be your best choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour. You’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point at Puerto Colón dock Nº5.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, from departure to return. Check available times when booking.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, making for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, snacks, sandwiches, desserts, and drinks (soft drinks, mineral water, cava, beer) are all provided onboard.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. There is about 30 minutes allocated for snorkeling in a beautiful bay, with equipment supplied.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see pilot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds. Many reviews mention close encounters with whales swimming right near the boat.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, many reviews mention children enjoying the trip. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable on the water and interested in marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, some warm clothes or a jacket (for choppy weather), and your swimwear for snorkeling.

Is there a chance I won’t see wildlife?
Like all wildlife tours, sightings aren’t guaranteed, but guides are experienced in seeking out animals, and many guests report successful encounters.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife sailboat tour stands out for its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and high wildlife sighting success rate. It balances relaxation with adventure—perfect if you want a memorable, wildlife-rich experience without the crowds or excess noise. The inclusion of good food and drinks, along with the chance to snorkel, makes it a well-rounded outing.

If you’re seeking a small-group, eco-conscious tour that emphasizes genuine wildlife encounters and local expertise, this trip offers excellent value for the price. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Tenerife’s marine environment in a respectful, relaxed, and friendly setting.

For those willing to organize their own transport and who appreciate a more personal touch, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Enjoy your adventure and keep an eye out for those amazing whales. Tenerife’s sea life is truly spectacular!

You can check availability for your dates here: