A pod of whales can appear fast. This 3-hour Tenerife sail blends wildlife spotting with real swimming and snorkeling in warm Atlantic water.

I like how the crew (often led by Captain Salvador, with hosts such as Ramone and Jenny on board) clearly know where to look. You also get a small, calm 12-meter boat experience instead of a crowded cattle-car chase.

Two things I especially appreciate: the trip is limited to 10 passengers, which keeps the vibe personal and the viewing close and respectful. And the onboard setup is practical—drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear are handled for you while you focus on the sea.

One possible drawback: the water can get a bit choppy. A few guests mentioned seasickness, and the crew can help, but if you’re sensitive to motion, plan for that.

Key highlights to expect

• Small-group vibe (10 max) for better wildlife viewing and quieter sailing
• Pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds spotted in their natural environment
• Deck-level comfort on a 12-meter sailboat with mats and room to spread out
• Snorkeling equipment included plus a swim stop in a secluded bay
• Drinks and snacks on board including cava/beer/wine and fresh bites
• Crew-first service with guides who explain what you’re seeing as you see it

Why this 12-meter sail makes whale watching feel personal

On Tenerife, whale watching can be either amazing or noisy—depending on the boat. This one is built for the sweet spot: small enough that you actually feel part of what’s happening, not just watching from the back of a crowd. With space for 10 passengers and 2 crew, you’re not fighting for the best side of the boat. And when a pod shows up, the crew can shift attention quickly so everyone gets a proper look.

I also love that the trip is not just about spotting animals from a distance. You sail along, you stop to swim, and you snorkel. That changes your perspective from tourist sightseeing to full “you’re out here with the ocean” experience.

And the sailing itself matters. In past trips, guests noted they used sails on the way out and back when the wind was up—so you get that clean sailing motion, not the constant mechanical noise that makes the whole thing feel more like transport than time on the water.

Getting to Puerto Colón and finding the Roulette

Your starting point is Puerto Colón. Go to dock number 5, on the port side, and look for the first jetty past the port parking barrier. You’ll meet at the door of dock Nº5 about ten minutes before departure. The ship’s name is Roulette, and it’s easier than it sounds once you’re there.

Two practical tips I’d give you:

• Wear something you don’t mind getting a little salty and sun-kissed. Deck time adds up fast.
• Arrive early enough that you don’t end up rushing down a dock with sandy shoes.

This is also a good tour if you don’t want a long pickup routine. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan on getting to the meeting point yourself.

Cruising the south coast: pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds

The heart of the experience is the search for cetaceans with a crew that actually focuses on marine life. As you sail along the south coast of Tenerife, you keep an eye on the water for whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds.

From guest experiences, the standout sightings often involve pilot whales—sometimes in pods close enough that you feel the scale of them right beside the boat. Many reports also mention dolphins, including pods that stay playful around the vessel. Turtles are another common bonus, and seabirds show up as extra proof you’re where food chains connect.

What makes this more than a generic wildlife scan is the way the crew handles positioning and timing. Multiple guests said the captain took time to keep the boat oriented so both sides of the vessel got views. And importantly, the tone is respectful—people specifically noted they weren’t chasing animals or disturbing them. That matters because it keeps the experience ethical, and it usually makes wildlife behavior more natural.

You’ll also get scenery value. A few guests talked about views of Tenerife and La Gomera from the water. Even when the wildlife timing is off by a bit, the coastline and horizon keep the time feeling worthwhile.

Wildlife viewing strategy: how the crew keeps it fair for everyone

A small group changes everything about viewing. With only 10 passengers, the captain and crew can spend more time on each sighting instead of constantly shuffling for the next stop. Guests also described the crew’s technique as calm and organized—guiding you to the right angles, letting you stay with the animals, and then moving on when the moment is done.

You’ll also hear explanations as you go. Past passengers highlighted how guides like Salvador and the onboard hosts kept commentary moving in Spanish and English (and sometimes Italian, depending on the guide). They explain local geography alongside marine life, so you’re not just learning animal names—you’re learning why those animals might be there.

If you like a tour where you feel informed while it’s happening, this one works. If you prefer silence and photos only, you can still enjoy it. The boat layout makes it easy to find a comfortable spot and watch without constantly being pulled into a lecture.

Snorkeling and swimming in warm Atlantic water

The tour includes time for swimming and snorkeling, and the stop is usually in a secluded bay feel. Guests mentioned snorkeling around 30 minutes, which sounds short until you’re actually in the water. That’s enough time to suit up, float, look around, and come back to breathe before the boat moves on.

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t have to rent gear or show up hunting for an unavailable mask. You’ll want to bring your own swimwear, since you’re dealing with wet deck moments.

One reason guests love the swim stop is the setting. People described it as picturesque and secluded, with some reports that there’s even a cave area worth exploring while snorkeling. You’ll still want to stay aware of your footing and follow the crew’s guidance in case conditions change.

Practical caution: water temperature can feel fine, but sun plus wind can still catch you. After you snorkel, take a minute to dry off and drink something before you’re back on deck for more sailing.

What you’re really getting with the snacks, cava, and desserts

A lot of boat tours treat food like an afterthought. This one doesn’t. Guests repeatedly praised the onboard service as friendly and attentive, with drinks kept coming throughout the cruise.

Included are mineral water plus wine, cava, beer, and soft drinks. That’s a real spread for a short tour. And on top of drinks, you get snacks and sweets—plus a proper lunch-style bite in some cases.

From guest accounts, the food described includes sandwiches (often baguette style), chips, Iberico ham, and cake (including carrot cake in at least one account). It’s not a gourmet restaurant meal, but it’s definitely not “chips and regret.” Also, one guest specifically noted the crew accommodated dietary requirements, which is a big deal if you’re traveling with restrictions.

The best part is timing. You’re out at sea, you’re watching wildlife, and then you’re offered something salty and refreshing without the awkward scramble. It keeps energy up for swimming and gives you a smooth finish when you’re back on deck.

Boat comfort details that matter more than you think

Let’s talk comfort like a realist. This sailboat is 12 meters with 3 double cabins and 2 bathrooms, plus deck mats for passenger comfort. You’re mostly on deck during the tour, but having real space below (and bathrooms that are not an afterthought) makes a difference on a 3-hour outing—especially if the sea gets a little rough.

Also, a quiet note: multiple guests mentioned the crew being attentive about guest comfort, including helping someone who felt sick from choppy water. If you’re even slightly unsure about motion sensitivity, take that seriously. Sit where the boat motion feels manageable for you, and don’t go empty on water or food.

Price and value: why $70 feels fair on this kind of boat

At $70 per person for a 3-hour sail that includes whale viewing plus drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment, the value comes from the combination—most trips sell wildlife plus photos, and you pay extra for everything else.

What helps here:

• You’re paying for a small boat with a limited guest count, which generally improves the experience.
• You’re not buying food and drinks separately.
• You’re getting a true water break with snorkeling gear included.

Some guests even described it as a steal when it was priced around €60 in earlier seasons. Even if pricing shifts, the real question is whether you want a quick, crowded run or a compact, crew-led outing where you can actually relax between sightings. For a lot of people, this is that sweet spot.

Who this tour suits best (and who should think twice)

This sail works best if you:

• Want wildlife time with a small group and an attentive crew
• Like the idea of sailing, not just riding in a motorboat
• Want a day that includes snorkeling, not just a look from the deck
• Appreciate clear guidance and explanations in Spanish, English, and Italian (depending on the guide)

It’s also a good choice for groups that want something shareable but not chaotic—like couples, friends, and families who can handle being out on the water for a few hours.

Who might think twice:

• If you’re very prone to seasickness, check the conditions and be prepared. Some guests got sick on choppy water, even with a small boat. The crew can help, but prevention is still best.

Should you book the Tenerife Whale Watching and Snorkeling sail?

I’d book it if you want a small-group Tenerife experience where the crew genuinely focuses on marine life and you get real time in the water. The standout pattern from past trips is close and exciting wildlife viewing—often pilot whales—and a calm service style that feels personal without feeling forced.

Skip it only if you know you can’t handle boat motion or you’re looking for a long, full-day snorkeling program. This is a compact 3-hour outing. When conditions line up, it’s the kind of trip that makes the ocean feel close enough to touch.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts 3 hours.

Where do we meet in Puerto Colón?

Meet at the door of dock number 5 of Puerto Colón, about ten minutes before departure. The ship is named Roulette.

What group size should I expect?

It’s a small group, limited to 10 participants.

What languages is the live guide offered in?

The live tour guide is available in Spanish, English, and Italian.

What’s included in the price?

The cruise, guide, whale watching, drinks (mineral water, wine, cava, beer, soft drinks), snacks, and snorkeling equipment are included.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What snorkeling and swimming should I expect?

You’ll have time to swim and snorkel in the warm waters, and snorkeling equipment is provided.

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