Tenerife: Snorkeling to look for Turtles and Rays

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside sea turtles, rays, and dolphins while in Tenerife, you’ll find this snorkeling tour offers a fun and family-friendly way to explore the island’s marine life. While sightings of specific species can’t be guaranteed, many travelers appreciate the chance to see these beautiful creatures in their natural environment.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is for all ages, the professionalism of the guides, and the quality of the equipment provided. A quick boat ride from Los Cristianos adds a dash of adventure, too. The only thing to consider is that, like all wildlife excursions, it’s possible you might not see everything you hope for—nature doesn’t always cooperate.

This tour suits families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxed, educational day at sea. If you’re after a memorable outdoor activity without the need for advanced skills, this snorkeling trip could be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible for all ages: Designed as a family-friendly activity suitable for children as young as 8.
• Marine life sightings: Possibility of spotting turtles, rays, and dolphins, though not guaranteed.
• All equipment included: Wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and instructions are provided to ensure comfort and safety.
• Fast boat transfer: A quick ride from Los Cristianos means more time in the water and less in transit.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with tips and insights.
• Limited to water comfort: Participants should be comfortable in the water; not suitable for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or those with health restrictions.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This snorkeling adventure begins at the Aqua-Marina dive center in Playa de las Americas, where you’ll check in, meet your guides, and get fitted with all necessary equipment. The staff, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, will ensure you’re comfortable with the gear and provide brief instructions if needed.

Once prepared, you’ll hop aboard a speedy boat heading from Los Cristianos harbor to the renowned bay next to Palm Mar. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, with the breeze and scenic views adding to the anticipation of hitting the water.

The core of the experience is approximately 45 minutes in the water, where you’ll have the chance to observe a variety of marine life. Many reviewers have noted that guides like Juan and Maria are particularly helpful, offering interesting facts about the creatures you encounter and tips on how to get the best views.

What to Expect During the Snorkeling

The snorkeling spot offers a relatively calm environment, perfect for beginners and families. You’ll see local schooling fish, and if luck is on your side, sea turtles and rays might make an appearance. Some reviews mention sightings of turtles in open water, though not everyone swims directly with these creatures due to their unpredictable movement.

Guides typically emphasize respect for marine life—touching is prohibited, and everyone is encouraged to observe quietly. As one reviewer noted, “All equipment is provided, including a wetsuit, which is great because the sea is quite cold,” highlighting how the wetsuits help extend comfort in cooler waters.

The marine environment here is vibrant but not overcrowded, which means you’ll feel immersed without feeling like you’re competing for glimpses of wildlife. Many travelers report seeing multiple species of rays and various colorful fish, making each snorkel session unique.

Equipment and Comfort

The tour provides long wetsuits and top-quality snorkeling gear, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable. Just remember to bring your own sunscreen, towel, and swimwear, as these are not supplied. Waterproof cameras are also a plus if you want to capture the underwater moments.

Guests seem to particularly appreciate the equipment, with one reviewer stating, “The staff were friendly and knew a lot about the underwater world.” That level of knowledge enhances the experience, as guides can point out hidden creatures and share interesting tidbits.

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The Boat Ride and Logistics

The fast boat transfer is a highlight for many, offering a quick, scenic trip to the snorkeling area. The boat’s speed and stability are generally praised, though some reviews suggest arriving early helps secure the best spots. The entire activity lasts around 2-3 hours, including check-in, transfer, snorkeling, and return.

Group sizes are typically moderate, ensuring personalized attention from guides. The meeting point at Aqua-Marina is easy to find, located on Paseo Verode, and the activity ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Pricing and Overall Value

Costing about $53 per person, this tour offers decent value considering the inclusion of all gear, instruction, and a lively boat ride. Compared to other similar experiences, it’s reasonably priced, especially for families or groups who want a safe, guided introduction to Tenerife’s marine life.

While sightings can’t be promised, many find the experience rewarding simply for the chance to be in the water and learn about local sea creatures. Plus, the opportunity to see dolphins, turtles, and rays in the wild adds a magical touch, even if not every trip guarantees sightings.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendliness and ability to enhance the trip. One mentioned, “The staff knew a lot about the underwater world,” adding that their explanations made the experience more engaging.

Another shared, “All equipment is provided, including a wetsuit, which is great because the sea is quite cold,” emphasizing the importance of good gear for comfort. Although sightings of dolphins and turtles were not guaranteed, many still enjoyed the abundance of fish and the chance to observe marine life in a natural setting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling experience is perfect for families with children aged 8 and above, beginners, or anyone who wants a relaxed, educational day at sea. It’s suitable for those who are comfortable in the water but not necessarily experienced swimmers.

However, it’s important to note that pregnant women, non-swimmers, and people prone to seasickness should consider other options or check with the provider beforehand. The tour’s focus on safety and guided instruction makes it accessible for most water enthusiasts.

The Sum Up

The Tenerife snorkeling tour to look for turtles and rays offers a lively, family-friendly opportunity to explore the island’s marine environment. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the combination of professional guides, quality equipment, and a scenic boat ride makes it a worthwhile outing for many travelers.

You’ll leave with a better understanding of local marine species, some great photos if you bring a waterproof camera, and hopefully, a few unforgettable moments with sea turtles or rays. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or an experienced marine enthusiast, this tour provides a relaxed way to connect with the ocean.

For travelers seeking a safe, guided, and reasonably priced experience in Tenerife, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for families, curious beginners, or anyone looking to add a splash of adventure to their holiday.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly and suitable for children aged 8 and above, provided they are comfortable in the water.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour provides all snorkeling gear and wetsuits, so there’s no need to bring your own equipment.

Can I see dolphins on this trip?
While dolphins are part of the marine life you might encounter, sightings are not guaranteed. The focus is on turtles, rays, and other local marine creatures.

Is the tour appropriate for non-swimmers?
Participants should be comfortable in the water. Non-swimmers or those with health restrictions should consider other options, as the activity involves snorkeling.

How long does the snorkeling last?
Approximately 45 minutes in the water, with the entire experience lasting around 2-3 hours including transfer and check-in.

What if I don’t see any marine life?
Even if you don’t spot the creatures you hope for, many guests enjoy the boat ride, the guides’ insights, and the chance to be in Tenerife’s beautiful marine environment.

This snorkeling tour in Tenerife stands out as a practical, enjoyable, and reasonably priced way to experience the island’s waters. With friendly guides and all equipment provided, it offers a comfortable introduction to marine life — perfect for families and beginners alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: