Planning a trip to Tenerife and looking for a water activity that’s both accessible and memorable? This snorkeling tour designed specifically for non-swimmers might just be the perfect choice. It offers a chance to explore the vibrant underwater scene without the need for extensive training or swimming skills, making it ideal for those who want to experience marine life comfortably and safely.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the calm, protected bay in Abades ensures a gentle environment for first-time snorkelers or anyone hesitant about deep water. Second, spotting sea turtles—those graceful creatures gliding effortlessly—is a highlight many reviews mention. Lastly, the photo and video package allows you to take home a visual record of your underwater adventure without any extra hassle.
One potential limitation is the reliance on weather conditions; poor weather or strong winds might lead to cancellations or schedule changes. While the tour promises a good chance of seeing turtles, sightings are not guaranteed, as these animals are truly wild and swim freely in their habitat. Still, for travelers seeking a low-pressure, fun introduction to Tenerife’s marine environment, this excursion offers great value.
If you’re someone who prefers relaxed activities, enjoys nature, and values safety and convenience, this tour will likely suit you perfectly. It’s especially suitable for non-swimmers, families, or those who don’t want to spend hours in the water but still crave an authentic marine encounter.
Key Points
- Accessible for non-swimmers: Full wetsuits, personal instructors, and calm waters make snorkeling easy for everyone.
- Wildlife spotting: There’s a good chance of seeing green sea turtles and vibrant tropical fish.
- Inclusive experience: Everything from gear to photos is included, providing convenience and value.
- Weather dependent: Activities might be affected by sea conditions, so flexibility is key.
- Short and sweet: 50-minute guided tour offers a manageable, fun introduction to snorkeling.
- Multilingual guides: Support in several languages helps ensure clear communication and safety.
What You Can Expect from the Tour
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Meeting and Preparation
Your adventure begins on the beach at Abades, a safe, marine protected bay known for its gentle, clear waters. The guides, identifiable by their Snorkel Tenerife Excursion t-shirts, greet you and start with a comprehensive safety briefing. This includes instructions on interacting with marine life and how to use the gear, which is all top-quality, including full wetsuits, masks, snorkels, fins, and boots.
One aspect that many visitors appreciate is the personal instructor assigned to each group. This ensures close supervision and reassurance, especially for non-swimmers or nervous participants. The guides speak several languages—English, Spanish, Italian, German, and Dutch—making communication smooth for international visitors.
The Snorkeling Experience
Once suited up, you’ll head into the calm bay waters. Unlike scuba diving, no certification or prior experience is necessary, and your guide will be with you every step of the way. The 50-minute tour is designed to be relaxed, with plenty of time to explore the underwater environment at your own pace.
We loved the way the tour emphasizes comfort; the wetsuits are high-quality and designed to keep everyone floats effortlessly. Many reviews mention that the gear fit well across sizes, making it suitable for most adults. The shallow, protected waters make it safe for non-swimmers and first-timers, allowing them to enjoy marine life without feeling overwhelmed.
Marine Life Encounters
The highlight for many travelers is the chance to see green sea turtles in their natural habitat. While sightings are not guaranteed, there’s a reasonable chance due to the bay’s status as a protected area. Alongside turtles, expect to see colorful corals and a variety of tropical fish, all swimming among rocks and seaweed.
Multiple reviewers note the vibrant underwater scenery. One mentioned, “The water was so clear, and we saw several turtles just swimming around us.” The guides are knowledgeable and will point out different species, making the experience both educational and fun.
More Great Tours NearbyPhotos and Videos
A standout feature of this tour is the free digital photos and videos taken during the activity. Many travelers say this is a real bonus—no need to worry about capturing the moment with your phone or camera. The photos are shot professionally, and reviews mention they are high quality and ready shortly after the tour ends, allowing you to relive your underwater adventure.
End of Tour and Facilities
After your snorkeling session, the guides bring you back to the starting point on the beach. There’s a public shower nearby, perfect for rinsing off the salt and sand. You’ll find water provided during the tour, and it’s recommended to arrive in your swimsuit for convenience.
The Logistics: What Matters for Your Planning
Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts around 50 minutes, making it a brief but fulfilling activity. Small group sizes are typical, which improves safety and allows guides to give more personalized attention.
Price and Value
At $69 per person, this snorkeling experience is quite competitive considering all the included gear, instructor support, and photos. The value is particularly high given that you’re getting a guided tour in a marine protected area, which is often a unique and fragile environment. The safety measures, quality equipment, and professional guidance justify the cost for most travelers.
Accessibility and Suitability
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those over 309 lbs (140 kg). Also, it’s best for those arriving with minimal medical concerns; informing the provider beforehand is recommended. If you have motion sickness, using medication is advised, as the tour operates in open water.
Weather and Cancellation
Activities depend heavily on weather conditions. The provider may cancel or reschedule due to poor weather or sea conditions, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Why This Snorkeling Tour Works Well
The experience strikes a good balance between safety, accessibility, and fun. Since no prior swimming skills are needed, it opens up marine exploration to a broader audience. The calm waters and full wetsuit gear provide confidence and comfort, making it a great first snorkel for kids, families, or nervous participants.
The inclusion of professional photos is a thoughtful touch, letting you focus on the experience while still taking home memories. Plus, the chance—though not a guarantee—of spotting green sea turtles adds an exciting wildlife element.
What Could Be Better?
Weather dependence is the main consideration. Also, some might wish for a longer tour, but for a half-hour adventure, the time flies by quickly. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, easy, and safe introduction to Tenerife’s marine world rather than a lengthy water activity.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This snorkeling experience is an excellent choice for non-swimmers or first-time snorkelers who are curious about marine life but prefer a calm, controlled environment. It suits families with children, solo travelers seeking a relaxed activity, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Tenerife’s underwater beauty. If your main goal is to see turtles and colorful fish while staying comfortable, this tour delivers on both fronts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour is designed specifically for non-swimmers, with full wetsuits, personal instructors, and calm waters ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
What gear is included?
You’ll receive a mask, snorkel, fins, boots, and a full wetsuit—all high-quality and fitting for all sizes.
How long does the snorkeling last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, giving plenty of time to explore the underwater scenery without feeling rushed.
Can I see sea turtles?
There’s a reasonable chance of spotting green sea turtles, but sightings depend on their natural behavior and habitat conditions.
What should I bring?
Just bring your swimwear and perhaps a towel. The tour provides water, and facilities like a public shower are available on the beach.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, adverse weather or strong sea conditions may lead to cancellations or schedule adjustments. The provider will contact you if this happens.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility should your plans shift.
Final Thoughts
This Tenerife snorkeling tour offers a calm, safe, and accessible way to explore the underwater world of the Canary Islands. With high-quality gear, professional guides, and the chance to see turtles and tropical fish, it provides excellent value—especially for those who aren’t confident swimmers but still want to experience marine life firsthand.
It’s well-suited for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a gentle introduction to snorkeling in a protected, beautiful setting. The inclusion of photos ensures you’ll remember your aquatic adventure long after you leave the beach.
If you’re seeking a light, enjoyable activity that combines wildlife encounters with convenience and safety, this tour could be just the ticket for your Tenerife trip.
Note: Always check the weather forecast before your trip and inform the tour provider of any medical conditions or special needs to ensure a smooth experience.
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