Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling

Getting out on the water around Tenerife offers a chance to see some of the most exciting marine life, enjoy stunning coastal views, and relax in a cozy, well-equipped boat. This particular tour, operated by Roulette Charters, combines whale and dolphin spotting, snorkeling, and delicious onboard food — all within a three-hour trip along the south coast of Tenerife. It’s a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, designed to give you an authentic taste of the island’s marine environment without the crowds or noise of larger boats.

What really makes this experience shine are three key things we love: the small group size of just 10 people, the knowledgeable crew passionate about marine life, and the high-quality food and drinks provided. However, a potential consideration is that the trip doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. This tour is perfect for travelers craving a personal, intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters and underwater exploration.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience
• Expert crew with extensive marine knowledge enhances spotting chances
• Wildlife sightings include whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds
• Snorkeling equipment and a dedicated spot for swimming make the trip versatile
• High-quality food and drinks are included, adding to the enjoyment
• No hotel transfers, so plan your arrival at the dock accordingly

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Tenerife Marine Experience

If you’re looking for a way to connect with Tenerife’s wild side, this sailboat tour hits all the right marks. The journey begins at Roulette Charters, with a brief walk to the dock at Puerto Colón, where the small, well-maintained boat awaits. With a capacity for just 10 passengers, the vessel feels more like a private adventure than a crowded cruise — something highly praised by reviewers who’ve pointed out how the small group makes the trip more personal and relaxing.

The boat itself is about 12 meters long, with three double cabins and two bathrooms, giving passengers room to spread out and stay comfortable. Deck mats and ample space for sitting or lying down make lounging on the water a genuine pleasure. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Salvador and Ramone aren’t just about spotting wildlife—they’re also eager to share insights about marine life, local geography, and the sustainability of wildlife encounters.

What to Expect on the Trip

Departure and Route

The tour departs from Puerto Colón, a popular and accessible spot on Tenerife’s south coast. Expect to start around your chosen time (which varies — check availability), and within minutes, you’ll be cruising along the coast where dramatic cliffs and secluded bays set the scene. The itinerary is straightforward and flexible: sail, spot wildlife, snorkel, and enjoy onboard food.

Wildlife Watching

The main highlight is the chance to see cetaceans like pilot whales and dolphins**, with many reviews describing close encounters and even interactions with pilot whales that come right up to the boat. One reviewer joyfully recalled a group of pilot whales swimming alongside, while others caught glimpses of flying fish and even a turtle. The crew’s extensive knowledge and enthusiasm boost your chances of sightings, since they actively look out for these animals and respect their space.

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Snorkeling and Swimming

A dedicated snorkeling spot is part of the experience, allowing you to float in the warm waters and see underwater life up close. The activity is relatively short—about 30 minutes—but enough to enjoy the underwater scenery. Some reviews mention stopping at secluded bays or caves that add an adventurous touch to the trip. The provided snorkeling equipment makes it easy for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike to enjoy.

Food and Drinks

No detail is spared when it comes to onboard refreshments. Expect a selection of snacks, delicious sandwiches, and desserts. Drink options include mineral water, cava, beer, and soft drinks. Reviewers often mention the high quality and generous servings, with some comparing the value favorably against larger, more commercial tours. One guest happily noted that the crew went out of their way to accommodate dietary needs, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The Crew and Guides

The reviews frequently highlight guides like Salvador, Ramone, and Dani as being both highly knowledgeable and friendly. They share interesting facts about marine life and Tenerife’s local landscape, making the trip educational as well as fun. Many reviewers comment on how the guides’ enthusiasm and respect for wildlife make a difference in their overall experience.

The Itinerary — A Closer Look

Starting Point: Roulette Charters

Your journey begins at Roulette Charters, a well-regarded operator with a reputation for small, intimate tours. Arriving at the dock about ten minutes before departure ensures a relaxed start — no rushing or crowding here. The first impression is of a clean, cozy vessel ready to host a small group comfortably.

Puerto Colón: The Launchpad

Once aboard, the focus is on the south coast’s stunning views. The crew offers a quick briefing, setting expectations for wildlife sightings and safety tips. From here, the boat heads out into the open waters, where the real magic happens.

Wildlife Spotting in the Open Waters

Many reviewers report seeing pilot whales, with some describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience of a pod swimming right next to the boat. Dolphins are also common, sometimes leaping out of the water in playful groups. Seabirds soar overhead, adding to the lively scene. One guest fondly recalled a baby whale swimming alongside its mother, an image many consider a highlight.

Snorkeling and Swimming Stops

The boat makes at least one stop for snorkeling, often in a clear, sheltered bay or a cave. Reviewers mention that the water is warm and inviting, and that the snorkeling spot is picturesque with natural formations adding to the experience. These stops allow for a quick but satisfying underwater exploration, with snorkeling gear provided.

Return to Puerto Colón

After the swim, you’ll cruise back to the starting point, often with more wildlife sightings if the timing is right. The crew keeps the atmosphere lively and educational, sharing stories or answering questions along the way. It’s a trip that balances adventure with relaxation perfectly.

Value for Money: Does It Deliver?

At around $70 per person for a three-hour tour, this experience is considered good value, especially given the small group size and included amenities. Many reviews highlight how the guides’ extensive marine knowledge enhances the experience, making it feel more like a tailored adventure than a generic cruise.

The food and drinks onboard add to the overall value, with fresh sandwiches, tasty desserts, and beverages flowing throughout. The included snorkeling equipment means you don’t need to rent gear elsewhere, saving you extra costs.

Compared to larger tours that often feel rushed or overly commercial, this small, intimate experience emphasizes quality encounters and personal attention. Several guests have expressed that the trip exceeded their expectations, mainly due to the friendliness of the guides and the quality of wildlife sightings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at the dock to ensure a smooth start. The meeting point is at dock Nº5 at Puerto Colón, past the port parking barrier.
• Bring a jacket — even in warm weather, the sea breeze can get cool, especially if the water is choppy.
• Prepare for a short but active trip—wear comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat.
• Consider your sea sickness susceptibility; the crew is attentive to comfort needs and offers tips if you feel unwell.
• No hotel transfers are included, so plan your transportation accordingly. Many guests walk or take a short taxi ride.
• Book in advance — the small group capacity fills quickly, and reviews show the trip is popular.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailboat experience suits travelers who value intimacy and personal service. If you love wildlife and want to maximize your chances of seeing whales, dolphins, and turtles while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere, this is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good food, drinks, and a knowledgeable crew.

While it’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, it might not be suitable for those looking for a lively party atmosphere. Also, if you prefer longer excursions with more snorkeling time or transfers included, you might want to explore other options.

In essence, this Tenerife sailboat tour offers a genuine, well-rounded maritime adventure. With its small group setting, expert guides, and focus on wildlife, it provides a memorable experience that’s both fun and educational. The onboard food and drinks elevate the trip from simple sightseeing to a relaxed, enjoyable outing.

It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to see Tenerife’s marine animals in their natural environment without the hassle of large crowds or commercialized tours. The combination of wildlife sightings, snorkeling, and personal attention makes it a top choice for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the sea.

If your goal is to enjoy a peaceful yet adventurous day on the water with plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters and meaningful interaction with guides, this tour hits the mark. It’s an experience many reviewers describe as unforgettable, and one that’s truly worth the price.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the dock at Puerto Colón.

What is the meeting point? The meeting point is at the dock Nº5 of Puerto Colon, past the port parking barrier, about ten minutes before the scheduled departure.

How long is the tour? The trip lasts for approximately 3 hours, providing enough time for wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and enjoying onboard food and drinks.

Are food and drinks included? Yes, the tour includes snacks, sandwiches, desserts, and beverages like mineral water, cava, beer, and soft drinks.

What wildlife might I see? Expect to see pilot whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds. There’s a good chance of close encounters, as many reviews highlight.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and you’ll have time to swim in a designated spot.

Can I expect a lively or quiet atmosphere? Given the small group size and knowledgeable guides, the experience tends to be relaxed and personal, rather than party-like.

This detailed review captures what makes this Tenerife sailboat tour special—a combination of wildlife, comfort, and authenticity that appeals to travelers seeking a genuine ocean adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: