Tenerife: Accessible Cruise with Turtles, Dolphins & Whales

Traveling to Tenerife often promises stunning coastlines, lush landscapes, and vibrant marine life. But for those with mobility challenges or looking for an experience that combines comfort and adventure, the accessible cruise with BAT4ALL stands out. This trip isn’t just about spotting whales and dolphins; it’s about enjoying the ocean in a way designed for everyone.

What we love about this tour is its thoughtful accessibility features, the chance to see up to 17 whale species, and the relaxed, small-group vibe that ensures each guest feels special. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling and marine wildlife encounters makes it a well-rounded adventure. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a small-capacity tour, so booking in advance is advisable to secure your spot.

If you’re after a comfortable, inclusive, and nature-focused day at sea, this tour is likely to tick all your boxes. It’s ideal for families, individuals with reduced mobility, or anyone wanting a relaxed, personalized way to explore Tenerife’s marine environment.

Key Points

• Fully accessible design ensures everyone, including wheelchair users, can participate comfortably.
• Small group size (up to 10 guests) guarantees a personal and unrushed experience.
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, with chances to see up to 17 whale species.
• Snorkeling is available for those who want to explore beneath the surface, with assistance provided.
• Comfortable onboard amenities, including shaded seating, a diving platform, and accessible bathrooms.
• Delicious Mediterranean-style snacks and soft drinks make the trip even more enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Boat: Santa Rita – The First Fully Accessible Vessel

This is no ordinary cruise. Santa Rita has been specifically designed with accessibility in mind, making it the world’s first fully accessible tourist boat. Its hydraulic platform allows guests in wheelchairs or mobility scooters to board effortlessly, which is a game-changer for anyone concerned about mobility issues. The boat features accessible bathrooms, ramps, and secure spaces for all mobility devices, ensuring total comfort and safety.

There’s plenty of shaded seating on board, which is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the views without worrying about sunburn or exhaustion. The deck has artificial grass and cushions, providing comfortable spots to lounge either in the sun or shade.

Itinerary Breakdown

Starting point: Guests meet at a clearly marked area, following signs for “Zone B – Excursions,” and the crew provides a quick briefing before departure. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

First stop – Guaza Fish Farm: This fascinating site is home to sea bream and bass, with sardines and mackerel swimming nearby. The marine ecosystem here attracts dolphins and sea turtles, increasing the chances of wildlife sightings early in the trip. Reviewers mention that spotting these creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight, with one guest noting, “We saw dolphins swimming alongside the boat, which was incredible.”

Lovers Cave: A spectacular sea cave with crystal-clear waters offers perfect photo opportunities. Its stunning clarity and natural formation make it a memorable visual highlight. Many guests comment on how picturesque and unique this spot is, adding a special touch to the trip.

Open Ocean – Dolphin and Pilot Whale Watching: As the boat ventures further, guests often spot dolphins and pilot whales swimming freely. The crew is experienced at spotting marine life, and reviews mention that “dolphins often come close, and it’s a thrill to see them leap out of the water.” The tour emphasizes a respectful approach to wildlife, avoiding chasing or disturbing the animals.

Las Vistas Bay – Snorkeling & Swimming: For those interested, snorkeling gear is provided, and assistance is available for anyone who needs help entering the water. The clear waters and abundant marine life make this a refreshing and engaging part of the tour. Several reviews highlight how accessible the snorkeling experience was, with one guest saying, “I loved being able to snorkel with my family, and the crew was so helpful and patient.”

Return & Refreshments: The trip concludes with a delicious Italian Mediterranean-style pasta dish, served fresh on board. Soft drinks are included, giving everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic coastlines before heading back.

Accessibility & Comfort Features

This tour’s standout feature is its dedication to accessibility. The hydraulic platform makes boarding a breeze for wheelchair users, and the boat’s design ensures easy movement and secure placement for mobility devices. The accessible restrooms are clean and well-equipped, enhancing comfort throughout the trip.

The crew, including guides who speak English, Italian, and Spanish, are praised for their friendly, accommodating attitude and detailed knowledge. Guests with mobility challenges consistently mention how seamless and enjoyable their experience was thanks to these features.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wildlife & Snorkeling: What You Might See

While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the tour’s reputation for frequent dolphin and whale encounters is notable. Several guests mention seeing 17 species of whales, including pilot whales and possibly others, depending on the season. Sea turtles are also common, particularly around the Guaza Fish Farm area, making this trip a real treat for marine life enthusiasts.

Snorkeling is optional but highly recommended for those who want to get closer to the underwater world. The shallow, clear waters and the assistance provided make it accessible for beginners and non-swimmers alike.

Food & Drinks: A Mediterranean Delight

The onboard meal is a real highlight for many. The freshly prepared Italian pasta, flavored with Mediterranean herbs and ingredients, offers a satisfying end to the trip. Soft drinks are included, while alcoholic beverages are available at extra cost, allowing you to toast your wildlife sightings.

The Value of the Experience

At $588 per group (up to 10 people), this tour may seem pricier than standard boat trips, but the value lies in its personalized, accessible design. Unlike larger, crowded excursions, this small-group experience ensures more space, better views, and more interaction with the crew. The inclusion of snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and a gourmet meal makes it feel like a luxurious, all-inclusive day at sea.

The tour is especially worth considering for families, seniors, or anyone with mobility needs who might otherwise shy away from traditional boat trips. The safety features, comfortable seating, and personalized attention turn a typical wildlife tour into a truly inclusive adventure.

What Reviews Add

Guests consistently praise the friendly crew and seamless accessibility, with one noting, “They really thought of everything to make sure we could all enjoy the sea.” Others mention how relaxing it is to have plenty of space and avoid the hustle of larger boats.

Some reviewers found the small group size to be a major plus, saying it made conversations easier and created a sense of intimacy. A few mention that the timing aligned perfectly with wildlife activity, heightening their chances of impressive sightings.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is a fantastic choice for anyone craving a personalized, relaxed marine adventure. It’s ideal for families with children, elderly travelers, or those with mobility challenges who want to experience Tenerife’s marine life comfortably. Nature lovers will appreciate the respectful wildlife viewing practices and the chance to snorkel in pristine waters.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, small-group experience with a focus on accessibility and wildlife, this tour delivers. It also suits travelers who value good food and a calm, unrushed atmosphere over a frantic, adrenaline-fueled excursion.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this accessible cruise with BAT4ALL in Tenerife offers a unique blend of comfort, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty. Its thoughtful design ensures that everyone can enjoy the ocean, whether through snorkeling, observing whales, or simply relaxing on deck. The personalized attention and small group size create an intimate, memorable experience that’s hard to match.

While it may cost more than larger tours, the quality of the experience, inclusivity, and opportunity to see marine life up close make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re traveling with mobility challenges or just want a more relaxed, personal adventure, this tour proves that nature and accessibility can go hand in hand.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the vessel is fully accessible with a hydraulic platform that allows wheelchair and mobility scooter users to board easily. The boat has accessible bathrooms and ramps designed for all mobility devices.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a barrier-free cruise, marine wildlife sightings, snorkeling, the opportunity for jumping off the boat’s roof, and Italian Mediterranean-style pasta. Soft drinks are also provided, with alcoholic beverages available at extra charge.

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts about 3 hours, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and scenery without feeling rushed.

Are there private options available?
Yes, they offer private or small-group tours, including 5-hour full-day adventures, perfect for special occasions or more personalized experiences.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Guests frequently see dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles. The tour boasts a chance to spot up to 17 whale species, depending on the season and conditions.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and assistance is available, making it accessible even for those new to snorkeling or with limited swimming ability.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Yes, a freshly-made pasta dish and soft drinks are included. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, and optional waterproof camera. If you plan to snorkel, bring your own mask if preferred; gear is supplied.

This Tenerife accessible cruise is more than just a wildlife tour — it’s a carefully curated, inclusive adventure that opens the ocean to everyone. If you value comfort, natural beauty, and a respectful approach to marine life, it’s well worth considering for your next trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: