Tenerife: Sailboat Tour Whale Watching Food and Snorkeling

Tenerife’s south coast is at its best from the water, and this small sailboat trip gives you a real chance to watch pilot whales and dolphins without the crowd and engine noise of a large excursion boat. The 12-meter Roulette carries no more than 10 passengers, with two crew members to look after you.

I like the personal service and the crew’s respect for the animals. Captain Salvador is often praised for his clear explanations of marine life, local geography, and the island’s past, while the crew keeps drinks coming and makes time for swimming and snorkeling.

The main drawback is the sea itself. Choppy water can make some passengers seasick, and wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. The snorkeling stop is usually around 30 minutes, so this is first and foremost a sailing and whale-watching trip, not a full snorkeling excursion.

What makes this Tenerife sailboat trip worth considering

• Pilot whales often come close to the boat, with dolphins, turtles, flying fish, and seabirds also possible.
• Only 10 passengers are allowed, giving you more deck space and a quieter ride than a large catamaran.
• Captain Salvador and the crew explain the wildlife in Spanish, English, or Italian.
• A swim and snorkel stop breaks up the sailing portion, often in a scenic bay near the volcanic coast.
• Food and drinks are included, from sandwiches and cake to cava, beer, wine, soft drinks, and water.
• The boat can sail under canvas, giving you stretches of peaceful travel without the constant sound of an engine.

A small boat, close wildlife, and a calmer pace

This is the kind of excursion I would choose if I wanted to see Tenerife’s marine life without turning the outing into a floating party. The Roulette has three double cabins, two bathrooms, and deck mats, but the real advantage is the passenger limit. With 10 people or fewer, you can move around, find a place in the sun or shade, and get a clear view from either side of the boat.

The south coast of Tenerife is a strong setting for this kind of trip. From the water, you see volcanic cliffs, beaches, open Atlantic horizons, and, on clear days, views toward La Gomera. The boat gives you a different angle on the island than a road tour or beach day.

The crew’s approach to wildlife is another reason I rate this outing highly. The aim is to locate animals and observe them without chasing or crowding them. That matters with pilot whales and dolphins, which may surface beside the boat or move away quickly. Several outings have seen pods close to the hull, including adults with calves, but nature remains in charge.

Meeting the Roulette at Puerto Colón

You meet at dock entrance number 5 in Puerto Colón, 10 minutes before departure. It is the first jetty after passing the port parking barrier, near the port parking area. Look for the vessel named Roulette.

This detail is worth taking seriously. Puerto Colón has several piers and boat operators, so give yourself enough time to find dock 5 rather than arriving at the last minute. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you need to make your own way to the port.

Once aboard, the crew gets you settled on the deck. The boat is a proper sailing yacht rather than a basic motor launch, with indoor cabin space and bathrooms, though most of the experience takes place outside.

The group size can vary below the 10-person maximum. Some departures have had six passengers, while others have been close to full. Either way, the limited capacity makes it easier to speak with the crew and find a comfortable place to watch the sea.

Sailing south from Puerto Colón

The first part of the trip is a coastal sail along Tenerife’s southern shore. If the wind is up, the crew may use the sails for much of the outward and return journey. That is one of the simple pleasures here: you can sit back with the boat moving quietly, rather than listening to an engine for all three hours.

The views are a major part of the outing. You see the coast from sea level, with volcanic rock, resort beaches, cliffs, and the broad Atlantic beyond. The view toward La Gomera adds another island to the horizon on clear days.

The trip is not only about looking for whales. The crew also explains the local marine environment, seabirds, and the geography of Tenerife. Captain Salvador has been especially praised for his enthusiasm and ability to make short explanations interesting. Other crew members named on different departures include Rafa, Ramone, Yani, Jenny, Dani, and Silvio, so the exact team may vary.

I like that the information is tied to what you are seeing. A seabird passing overhead, a group of dolphins, or a change in the water becomes part of the story rather than a random sighting.

Searching for pilot whales and dolphins

The whale-watching section is the heart of the excursion. Pilot whales are the most regularly reported sighting, and pods have included calves. Dolphins may appear beside the bow, and some outings have also seen sea turtles, flying fish, red-finned tuna, and Cory’s shearwaters.

The small yacht is useful here. You are closer to the water than you would be on a high-sided boat, and there are fewer people competing for the best view. The skipper also works to give both sides of the boat a chance to see the animals.

Some groups have watched pilot whales near the vessel for around 15 minutes. Others have found themselves surrounded by a pod of 20 to 30 whales. Those encounters are memorable, but you should keep expectations realistic. No responsible whale-watching operator can promise a particular species or close approach on every departure.

The crew’s attitude is just as important as the sightings. The best moments come when the boat slows down and lets the animals choose the distance. You may see a dorsal fin, a blow, or a dolphin riding the bow wave. You might also spend time scanning empty water. That is part of wildlife watching, not a flaw in the trip.

The swim and snorkeling stop

After the wildlife search, the boat stops for swimming and snorkeling, generally for about 30 minutes. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, so you do not need to bring a mask or fins unless you prefer using your own.

The stop is designed as a refreshing break rather than a major reef expedition. You can get into the warm water, look for fish, and enjoy the cliffs and coves from below the surface. Some departures have included a picturesque bay and a small cave to explore.

The water stop adds useful variety to the three-hour trip. You are not sitting in the same position for the entire outing, and a swim feels especially welcome after time in the sun. Still, if snorkeling is your main goal, this may feel brief. I would choose a dedicated snorkeling cruise instead if you want a long session or detailed underwater instruction.

Swimming ability also matters. The provided information does not describe a separate shallow-water lesson or a pool-like setting, so you should be comfortable with the conditions before getting in. If you prefer to stay aboard, the deck remains available.

Sandwiches, cake, and drinks on deck

Food is simple, fresh, and suited to a short boat trip. Expect sandwiches or baguettes, often with ham and tomato or Iberian ham, along with crisps and a slice of cake. Some departures have included carrot cake or gingerbread cake.

This is not a formal meal, and it does not need to be. The sandwiches are practical after swimming, and the snack service keeps the three-hour outing from feeling sparse. The crew has also accommodated dietary needs on at least some departures, but you should raise any requirements when booking rather than assume every option will be available.

Drinks include mineral water, soft drinks, beer, wine, and cava. The crew regularly offers refreshments, which is a pleasant touch on a warm afternoon. If you do not drink alcohol, you still have plenty of nonalcoholic choices.

One nice detail is the willingness to mark special occasions. A birthday cake with candles has been arranged on board, though lighting candles on a moving deck can be a small nautical challenge.

Comfort, seasickness, and what to bring

The Roulette has deck mats, cabins, and two bathrooms, so it offers more comfort than a bare-bones open boat. Most people will want to spend the time outside, where the views and wildlife are, but the cabin space gives you somewhere to retreat if the sun becomes strong.

The Atlantic can be smooth, but it can also be choppy. At least one passenger became seriously seasick despite having a wonderful experience overall, and the crew responded with care. That tells you two useful things: the team is prepared to help, but motion sickness remains a real possibility.

If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking your usual precautions before departure. Sit near the center of the boat, keep your eyes on the horizon, and avoid arriving on an empty stomach. The crew can help, but it is better to plan ahead.

Bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and a towel. A light layer is also sensible because the wind can make the return sail feel cooler than the port. You will want a secure way to carry your phone, since the boat deck can be wet during swimming and spray.

Why the small group changes the experience

The difference between 10 people and a large excursion crowd is easy to feel. You can ask questions without shouting, hear the wildlife explanations, and move to the bow or opposite side when something surfaces.

The small group also creates a more relaxed mood. You are not fighting for a railing spot or listening to loud music. The crew can check that everyone is comfortable, offer another drink, and make sure both sides of the boat get a fair view.

Families can enjoy the trip, and a toddler has taken part successfully. Still, remember that this is a moving sailboat with open deck space, sun, wind, and possible choppy water. Children need close supervision, and the three-hour length may be a lot for very young passengers.

Couples, small groups of friends, and solo visitors who enjoy nature are a natural fit. I would also recommend it for anyone who has already done a large dolphin cruise and wants something quieter and more personal.

Is $70 a fair price?

At $70 per person, the trip offers solid value if you want several experiences in one outing. You get three hours on a sailboat, a small group, a guide, wildlife watching, snorkeling equipment, food, and a broad selection of drinks.

The value is not only in the number of inclusions. A large boat may cost less, but the atmosphere and access are different. Here, you are paying for limited capacity, hands-on service, and a yacht that can sail under wind power when conditions allow.

I would not book it solely for the promise of seeing a whale. Wildlife is unpredictable, and a quiet sea can produce fewer sightings. I would book it because the day still has value through sailing, coastal views, crew stories, snacks, and swimming, with wildlife as the thrilling bonus.

The price has also compared favorably with the quality of the food and service on many departures. You are not receiving a luxury meal, but the sandwiches, cake, crisps, and drinks are more than enough for a short afternoon on the water.

Languages, booking flexibility, and timing

The live guide service is available in Spanish, English, and Italian. Captain Salvador has explained marine life and island geography in both Spanish and English, while the exact language mix depends on the group and crew on your departure.

The trip lasts three hours, with departure times varying by availability. Morning and afternoon options have both been offered. An afternoon sailing can be appealing when you want to avoid the strongest midday heat, while a morning departure leaves more of your day free afterward.

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and the reserve-now-pay-later option allows you to hold a place without paying immediately. These policies are useful when your Tenerife plans are still shifting.

The meeting point is not a hotel pickup location, so factor in your own transport to Puerto Colón. Arriving early is wise, especially if you are unfamiliar with the port.

Who should book the Roulette sailboat?

I would choose this tour for:

• People who prefer small boats to large, noisy cruises
• Families wanting wildlife, swimming, and food in one outing
• Couples looking for a calm half-day on the Atlantic
• Anyone interested in pilot whales and dolphins but also happy to enjoy the sailing itself
• Visitors who value personal attention and clear local explanations
• First-time whale watchers who want the crew to explain what they are seeing

I would think twice if you get severe seasickness, need guaranteed wildlife sightings, or want snorkeling to take up most of the trip. The sea sets the schedule, and the snorkeling stop is short compared with a dedicated water-sports tour.

Should you book this Tenerife whale-watching trip?

I would book it if you want a quiet, small-group sailing trip with a good chance of seeing pilot whales and dolphins, plus a swim, food, and drinks. The crew’s care and respect for the animals are the strongest reasons to choose it over a larger boat.

The best booking strategy is to pick a day when you can tolerate some flexibility. Bring sun protection and motion-sickness precautions, arrive early at dock 5, and treat the wildlife as wild rather than guaranteed. If the sea cooperates, the combination of pilot whales close to the hull, a peaceful sail, and a swim off Tenerife can make this one of the most rewarding short excursions on the island.

FAQ

How long is the Tenerife sailboat tour?

The tour lasts three hours, including sailing, wildlife watching, swimming, and snorkeling.

Where does the tour start?

It starts at Puerto Colón, at the entrance to dock number 5. The boat is named Roulette.

How early should I arrive?

You should arrive 10 minutes before departure at the meeting point.

How many people can join the tour?

The sailboat has a maximum capacity of 10 participants, with two crew members.

What wildlife might I see?

You may see pilot whales, dolphins, turtles, seabirds, flying fish, and other marine life. Sightings are not guaranteed.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, along with time to swim and snorkel.

What food is provided?

Food can include sandwiches or baguettes, crisps, and cake. Dietary requirements may be accommodated if arranged in advance.

What drinks are included?

Mineral water, wine, cava, beer, and soft drinks are included.

Which languages are available?

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

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you must make your own way to Puerto Colón.