Whales sound better from a quiet yacht. This private sailing trip from Playa de las Américas uses sonar whale listening plus easy time on the Atlantic, with Champagne, snacks, and a real swim stop. You also keep watch for pilot whales that are present in local waters year-round.

What I love is how small it stays: up to 11 passengers, so you get more deck space and less queueing for anything. I also like that snorkeling gear is included, so you can actually use it when the captain drops anchor.

One thing to think about is that wildlife is wildlife. Weather matters, and sightings are never guaranteed, even with the best skipper and the right gear.

Key highlights at a glance

• Private yacht for up to 11 passengers, so you’re not sharing the boat
• Sonar listening for whales and dolphins, not just eyeballing them
• Champagne plus an open bar of wine, beer, sodas, and bottled water
• Snorkel gear included for the swim stop you’ll want to take
• Pilot whale habitat year-round in these Tenerife waters
• 3- or 6-hour options, morning or afternoon, to fit your schedule

Private Yacht Cruise From Playa de las Américas: why it feels different

This is one of those tours that changes the whole vibe. Instead of waiting in a crowd and hoping the wildlife comes close, you’re on a boat built for space and watching. It’s a sailing yacht style day: open deck time, a comfortable saloon cabin if you want shade, and enough room that conversations don’t turn into shouting.

The other big difference is control. You’re booking a private tour, so your group sets the rhythm with the skipper, and you’re not stuck with strangers’ energy levels. When the captain finds the right area for marine life, you can shift your attention without anyone else’s agenda taking over.

Stepping onto a 40-foot sailing yacht (and making the most of the space)

You’ll meet at the Puerto Colón marina area (Puerto Colon, pantalan 2, Costa Adeje) and board where your captain gives a safety briefing and trip briefing. The yacht is listed as a sailing boat around 40 feet (12.19 meters) and it carries up to 11 passengers. That size is key: large enough for comfort, small enough for the captain to steer the day around conditions.

On board, you have more than just seats. There’s a luxurious saloon cabin and a kitchenette, plus plenty of deck space for spotting. Practically, that means you’re not forced to stay in one spot if you want shade, a different view, or a calmer moment while you wait for animals to surface.

Drinks, Champagne, and snacks on the Atlantic

This trip doesn’t treat food like a consolation prize. You get a glass of Champagne, and then the open bar stays flowing with unlimited wine, beer, sodas, and bottled water. Along the way, you’ll have light snacks.

In plain terms, it’s a nice way to turn whale watching into a proper outing. You can focus on the sea instead of mentally tracking what you’ll eat next. If you’re traveling with friends or family, it also makes the day feel more special without turning it into a formal dinner.

Vegetarian guests are covered too. A vegetarian option is available if you tell the operator when you book.

The whale and dolphin hunt: pilot whales, dolphins, and more

The captain heads toward waters known for whale and dolphin sightings, and you’re specifically on the watch for pilot whales, which are said to be present year-round in the area. That matters, because it changes your expectations. You’re not looking at one season only, and you’re not gambling on one narrow window.

As you cruise on open water, keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles as well. Sometimes wildlife shows up fast. Other times, it’s a slow game of patience—look, scan, reposition, repeat. The good news here is that you’re already on a boat designed for spotting, with plenty of deck space and a captain who’s paying attention.

Sonar listening: a different way to look for marine life

You’re not just staring into the water hoping for a lucky moment. This tour includes sonar equipment used to listen for whales and dolphins. That’s a big deal for two reasons.

First, it can help your group spend more time in the right areas rather than drifting through the unknown. Second, it gives your outing structure. Even when you don’t see animals immediately, the day still has a rhythm: cruise, scan, and then shift when the equipment and observations line up.

I like this approach because it feels honest. Wildlife days aren’t magic tricks, but adding sonar gives you another tool besides eyesight.

The swim and snorkel stop: gear is included, so use it

At some point during the cruise, the captain drops anchor, giving you time to swim. There’s a swim stop built into the plan, so you’re not stuck with sightseeing only.

If you want to get more out of that moment, the tour includes snorkeling equipment. That means you can suit up right there and explore what’s below, with a shot at close-up marine life like sea turtles.

Practical tip: bring your swimwear and a towel you can dry off with. Also, plan to use reef-safe habits even if you’re just guessing what’s around you—small choices help when you’re sharing ocean habitat with wildlife.

3 hours vs 6 hours: choosing the right amount of time on water

You can choose a 3-hour or 6-hour cruise, in the morning or afternoon. On a day like this, time on the water is the main lever you can pull.

For many people, the 3-hour version hits the sweet spot: long enough to get out to the whale-and-dolphin areas, enjoy drinks and snacks, and still have the swim and snorkeling moment without feeling like you missed the rest of Tenerife. The shorter format is also easier to stack with other plans in Costa Adeje or nearby.

If you want a slower pace, the 6-hour option makes more sense. You’ll simply have more time for cruising and spotting, and you’ll be less stressed about getting everything done in one block.

Getting there at Puerto Colón: meeting point and pickup reality

The meeting point is clear: Puerto Colón, pantalan 2, 38660 Costa Adeje. The tour ends back at the original jetty, so you’re not dealing with drop-offs across town.

Pickup isn’t automatic. Hotel pick-ups aren’t included, and you’ll need to contact the operator at least 24 hours before the trip starts if you want pickup arrangements. Best practice is to reach out as soon as you book so you get the correct details early.

Also keep in mind: this is offered in English, and you’ll receive a mobile ticket.

Cost and value: $716.45 per group, up to 11 people

The listed price is $716.45 per group (up to 11), for the approximately 3-hour experience. Value depends on how many seats you fill.

• If you bring a larger group and get near the full capacity, the per-person cost becomes much more reasonable.
• If you’re just 2 people, the price is still for the whole boat, so it’s more of a splurge.

That said, you are paying for privacy, not just a boat ride. The whole point of booking a private yacht is that you control the experience: your group is the group, you get the attention of your captain, and your day doesn’t turn into a waiting game among crowds.

For families, this can be one of the most cost-effective ways to do a premium wildlife outing, because the boat size helps everyone relax. For couples, it’s best when you’re okay with paying for exclusivity.

Small details that can make or break your day

A few practical points matter on a sea day like this:

• Weather is required. The experience depends on good weather. If conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Bring the right expectations for wildlife. Even with sonar and a smart route, the ocean decides how close animals come.
• If you’re sensitive to motion, plan accordingly. Boats this size can still move in waves.
• Souvenir photos are not included, so if that matters to you, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

One more thing: the hosting style seems to be a strong part of the experience. Names like Guy, Juan Angel, and Maxi show up as skippers credited with keeping things relaxed and helping people know where to look.

Should you book this private yacht whale and dolphin tour?

Book it if you want a private day on Tenerife that blends wildlife watching with real comfort: open bar, snacks, a swim stop, and included snorkeling gear. It’s a great match for couples, small families, and groups who don’t want the energy of a shared tour boat.

Think twice if your top goal is guaranteed dolphin-or-whale sightings. This is wildlife watching, and the day still depends on conditions and how animals behave. If you’re fine with that, you’ll likely love the mix of sonar listening, pilot whale habitat, and the simple pleasure of being out on the water with your own boat and your own pace.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the yacht tour in Tenerife?

You’ll meet at Puerto Colón, pantalan 2, 38660 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

Does the price include pickup from a hotel?

No. Hotel pick-ups are not included. Pickup may be possible if you contact the operator at least 24 hours before the trip starts.

How many people are on the yacht?

The yacht can carry up to 11 passengers per booking, and this is a private tour for your group only.

How long is the experience?

The duration is approximately 3 hours. You can also choose a 6-hour cruise option.

What’s included for food and drinks?

The tour includes snacks, bottled water, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, plus a glass of Champagne.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you’ll have time to swim when the yacht anchors.

Does the tour use sonar to find whales and dolphins?

Yes. Sonar equipment is included for listening to whales and dolphins.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes. A vegetarian option is available if you advise the operator when booking.

What happens if weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a cancellation deadline for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, based on local time.

You Might Also Enjoy

Split: PRIVATE Full-Day Sail Yacht Cruise – Per group (up to 12)!Maui: Molokini and Turtles Luxury Yacht Snorkel2-hour Private Sunset Cruise on a luxury yacht in Cancun Bay 25P18Hurghada: Yacht Trip 2 islands, Diving & Snorkeling W Lunch