Tenerife: Accessible Cruise with Turtles, Dolphins & Whales

Traveling to Tenerife and craving an up-close encounter with marine life while enjoying a relaxed, accessible boat trip? This tour promises just that—an opportunity to sail along the stunning coastlines of the Canary Islands in a vessel designed for everyone, with plenty of chances to spot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.

What really sets this experience apart are three key features: its full accessibility, small-group intimacy, and marine wildlife opportunities. The boat’s innovative design means wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility can board easily and enjoy the ocean without barriers. The chance to see diverse marine creatures in their natural habitat is genuinely thrilling, and the cozy, private vibe makes it perfect for families or couples looking for a more personal adventure.

One potential consideration is the tour’s duration—at three hours, it’s a relatively short trip, though it covers a lot of ground, and the smaller group size ensures a more intimate experience. If you’re after a quick, meaningful escape at sea with a focus on wildlife and comfort, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prioritize accessibility and meaningful wildlife encounters over long, crowded excursions.

Good To Know

• Fully accessible boat with ramps, secure spaces, and wheelchair-friendly features.
• Small group size (up to 10 guests) for a personalized experience.
• Wildlife spotting including whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural environment.
• Comfortable setup with shaded seating, artificial grass decks, and cushions.
• Snorkeling options with assistance available, perfect for all ages and mobility levels.
• Gourmet Mediterranean pasta on board, adding a delicious touch to your trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Accessible Tenerife Marine Adventure

The Vessel & Accessibility Features

The Santa Rita, renowned as the world’s first fully accessible tourist boat, is central to this experience. Its design demonstrates a clear commitment to inclusivity, making it possible for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges to enjoy the ocean just like everyone else. The hydraulic platform is a standout feature, allowing wheelchairs and scooters to board effortlessly—no need to transfer or struggle.

Inside, the vessel offers plenty of shaded seating and cushions on the deck, ensuring comfort whether you’re sunbathing or relaxing in the shade. During a recent review, a guest mentioned how the crew’s attention to detail helped make the experience smooth, especially for visitors with mobility needs. Also worth noting is the accessible restroom, ensuring comfort during the trip, which isn’t always a given on small boat tours.

The Itinerary & Highlights

The tour begins along Tenerife’s coast, where the crew guides guests to the Guaza Fish Farm, an impressive spot for observing marine life in a semi-natural setting. Here, visitors often spot sea bream, bass, sardines, and mackerel—and this area is a magnet for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine predators. The guides, like Juan, known for his warmth and enthusiasm, often share insights about local marine ecosystems, adding an educational layer to the trip.

Next, the boat ventures toward the stunning Lovers Cave, a crystal-clear water sea cave that offers picture-perfect moments. The cave’s transparent waters make it an ideal spot for photos, and some guests reported that the sight of the cave’s natural formations was a highlight of their trip.

One of the main attractions is whale and dolphin watching. The crew often encounters 17 different species of whales in these waters, and sightings of dolphins and pilot whales are frequent. A reviewer mentioned how “the crew’s patience and keen eye made the wildlife sightings very rewarding,” adding that the experience felt authentic rather than overly scripted.

Snorkeling & Water Activities

The tour includes a chance to snorkel in Las Vistas Bay, with gear provided and assistance available for those who need it. The clear waters and vibrant marine life are a delight—some guests joked that they wished they had brought their underwater cameras. The boat’s diving platform is wheelchair-friendly, allowing guests to jump in from a comfortable height into the water, which is especially appreciated by those who want to get closer to marine life without hassle.

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Food & Refreshments

After a couple of hours exploring and wildlife spotting, everyone gathers for a Mediterranean-style pasta dish served on board. Freshly prepared, with Mediterranean flavors, this meal is a thoughtful touch that elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a relaxing, gourmet experience. Soft drinks are included, and guests can purchase alcoholic beverages if they wish.

The Overall Experience and Value

At $587 per group (up to 10 guests), the tour offers a high level of exclusivity and comfort. While it might seem pricey compared to larger group excursions, the personalized service, accessibility features, and quality wildlife encounters make this a worthwhile investment for travelers looking for a memorable and inclusive experience.

The small size means you’re not just another face in a crowd; you’ll enjoy plenty of space and personalized attention from the friendly crew, who are praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm. Guests often mention the “extra effort” made to accommodate everyone, which truly enhances the feeling of being cared for.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who value comfort, accessibility, and authentic wildlife encounters. Families with children, elderly travelers, or anyone with mobility challenges will especially appreciate the design of the vessel and the inclusive atmosphere. Nature lovers and marine enthusiasts will find the chance to see whales, dolphins, and turtles in the wild an unforgettable highlight.

Final Thoughts

This accessible boat trip in Tenerife offers much more than a typical coastal cruise. It combines wildlife watching, comfortable amenities, and a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of the ocean. The small group size lends a sense of intimacy, making it ideal for couples or families seeking a relaxed, meaningful adventure.

While the trip is relatively short, the diversity of sights—from marine animals to stunning caves—means you leave with a richer appreciation for Tenerife’s marine environment. The gourmet pasta and attentiveness of the crew add a special touch, making it a well-rounded outing that balances fun, comfort, and discovery.

If you’re after an unhurried, inclusive, and wildlife-rich experience, this tour offers excellent value for the quality of the encounter and the level of accessibility provided. It’s a rare find in the world of boat tours, and one that’ll likely stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the small-group setting and accessible features make it suitable for children, adults, and seniors alike, including those with mobility challenges.

What kind of marine life might I see?
Expect to see whales, dolphins, and sea turtles— sightings of 17 whale species are common, with dolphins and pilot whales frequently spotted.

Is snorkeling included and accessible?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and assistance is available for those who need help entering the water. The boat’s diving platform is wheelchair-friendly.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy wildlife sightings and the scenic coast.

What’s the price and what does it include?
At $587 per group (up to 10 guests), it covers the fully accessible boat, wildlife sightings, snorkeling, a Mediterranean pasta dish, soft drinks, and private, exclusive service.

Are alcoholic beverages available?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are available at an extra charge.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point, following signs for ‘Zone B – Excursions.’

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

This Tenerife accessible cruise combines thoughtful design, exciting wildlife encounters, and a relaxed vibe that makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking an inclusive and memorable day at sea.

You can check if your dates are available here: