Tenerife: Kayak and Snorkel with Turtles with Free Videos

Tenerife: Kayak and Snorkel with Turtles with Free Videos — An Authentic Marine Adventure

Taking to the waters of Tenerife on a kayak with snorkel gear in hand sounds like a perfect way to connect with the island’s vibrant marine world. While I haven’t personally paddled out myself, reviews consistently highlight this tour as a standout experience for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike. What makes it truly appealing? It’s eco-friendly, offers close-up animal encounters, and includes free photos and videos—value that’s hard to beat at just $40.

That said, the experience isn’t without considerations. It involves a fair bit of physical activity and swimming ability, so it’s best suited for active, confident swimmers aged 14 and up. If you’re looking for a relaxing boat trip, this might not be it—but for those wanting genuine contact with dolphins and turtles while exploring Tenerife’s stunning coastline, this tour hits the mark.

You’ll love the chance to see dolphins jump out of the water, the opportunity to spot green and loggerhead turtles, and the inclusion of free media to take home. However, keep in mind the need to be comfortable with swimming and some physical exertion. It’s a tour best suited for those eager for an interactive, nature-focused adventure rather than a leisurely cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are common with a 90% chance of encountering turtles and dolphins.
• Eco-friendly approach ensures minimal disturbance to marine animals.
• Inclusive package with pictures, videos, wetsuits, and snorkel equipment adds great value.
• Active participation required, including the ability to swim and a minimum age of 14.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and passion.
• Secluded bay stop offers a peaceful snorkeling spot and chances to see rays and more marine life.

What to Expect from Your Tenerife Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

This adventure kicks off at the Xplore Tenerife office, situated in Cristianmar, easily findable via Google Maps. Expect a brief safety briefing and introduction from your guide, who will equip you with wetsuits, snorkels, and kayaks. Changing rooms and lockers are available, which makes it convenient to leave your belongings safely during the activity.

The Kayaking Experience

Once on the water, you’ll paddle along Tenerife’s breathtaking coast, with the guide leading the way. The kayaks are designed for comfort, with supportive seats—so even if you’re not a seasoned paddler, you’ll find it manageable. Group sizes tend to be small, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

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Wildlife Encounters

This part truly shines. The majority of reviewers mention spotting dolphins nearby, often in pods of up to 30, doing playful jumps and flips that look like scenes from a nature documentary. Guides are keen to point out the different species, including bottlenose, striped, and rough-toothed dolphins. As one reviewer put it, “we saw families of dolphins within arms reach,” which is quite extraordinary.

Turtles are also common sightings, mainly green turtles and sometimes loggerheads. The guides do a great job respecting the animals’ space, ensuring encounters are natural rather than invasive. Expect some excitement—think jumping dolphins and gentle turtles surfacing near your kayak.

Snorkeling Break in a Secluded Bay

Midway through, the tour halts at a hidden bay accessible only by boat, providing a peaceful snorkeling spot. Here, you’ll have the chance to float in crystal-clear waters, observing marine life such as fish, rays, and possibly even turtle beneath you. Many reviews highlight this stop as a highlight, with commentaries like, “we saw turtles from really close up,” and “graceful rays gliding by.” The calm waters and minimal boat traffic make it an ideal place to relax and take it all in.

The Return

The trip wraps up with a gentle paddle back to the starting point. The entire experience generally lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours, a perfect length for an ocean adventure without feeling rushed or overexerted.

Guides and Equipment: Knowledge and Comfort Matter

Exceptional Guides

Reviewers frequently praise the guides—names like Luna, David, Vincent, and William pop up with glowing feedback. They’re described as enthusiastic, patient, and deeply knowledgeable about marine life and safety. Luna, in particular, received praise for creating a relaxed yet professional environment, making everyone feel confident whether they’re beginners or seasoned kayakers.

Equipment Quality

All necessary gear—wetsuits, snorkels, and kayaks—are provided, with many reviewers noting the wetsuits are short but sufficient for warmth, especially in summer. The kayaks themselves are stable and comfortable, with back support, which can make a big difference over the tour’s duration.

Practical Details: Price, Timing, and Booking

At $40 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the professional guides, quality gear, and free videos/photos. The inclusion of media means you walk away with memories without an extra cost, which is rare in ocean excursions.

Timing varies depending on the season, but most tours run in the morning, facilitating good weather and calmer waters. Booking is flexible—reservations can be made with the option to pay later, allowing for easy planning.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Participants need to be able to swim confidently, as the activity involves swimming in open water. The minimum age is 14, and group sizes tend to be small, ensuring personalized attention. For safety, there’s a weight limit of 100 kg per person, and pregnant women, people with medical conditions, or those over 220 lbs are advised against participating.

Authentic Experiences from Past Participants

Many reviews mention guides like Luis, Bea, Coco, and Vince, whose enthusiasm and care stood out. One reviewer appreciated how William kept everyone moving as a team, making sure no one fell behind. Several noted that their guides took great photos and videos, then shared them promptly—adding a nice touch to the overall experience.

While sightings can never be guaranteed in the wild, most participants report seeing dolphins and turtles, with some lucky ones witnessing close encounters—like a turtle swimming right up to their kayak or dolphins leaping just meters away.

The tour is also appreciated for its respect for the ocean and wildlife. Comments such as “respectful of the animals” and “not disturbing the marine life” emphasize the eco-conscious approach, making it a responsible choice for nature lovers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical effort and are comfortable swimming in open water. It suits families with teenagers (14+) who want an engaging adventure, as well as individuals or couples seeking a memorable wildlife encounter.

If you’re after a relaxed boat cruise or have mobility issues, this might not be ideal. But for those eager to see dolphins and turtles up close in a respectful way, this tour delivers. It’s especially fantastic for nature enthusiasts who appreciate knowledgeable guides and the chance to create lasting memories with stunning ocean views.

FAQ

Do I need to be able to swim to join?
Yes, being able to swim confidently is mandatory, as the activity involves swimming in open water.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops for comfort and protection during your time at the beach.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, short wetsuits are included in the price, which are generally enough for summer conditions.

Can I see dolphins and turtles every time?
While sightings are not guaranteed, reviews show about a 90% chance of encountering dolphins and turtles, often close enough for a memorable view.

What is the group size like?
Most groups are small, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What age is the minimum?
Participants need to be at least 14 years old, with minors under 18 needing adult supervision.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
No, it is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or back problems.

How do I book?
Reservations can be made online with the option to pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife kayak and snorkel tour stands out as a genuine wildlife encounter that combines adventure with eco-consciousness. The chance to see dolphins jump and turtles glide in their natural habitat makes it a memorable experience for those eager to connect with the ocean. The guides’ reputation for friendliness and expertise, coupled with the inclusion of free videos and photos, provides excellent value.

For active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, or families with older kids, this tour offers a perfect mix of fun, education, and respect for nature. While it’s not suited to everyone—particularly non-swimmers or those seeking a leisurely day at sea—it is undoubtedly a top-rated, authentic experience in Tenerife’s marine world.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In summary, if you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized, wildlife-focused adventure with a touch of adventure and professional guides, this tour is worth considering. It’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours immersed in the natural beauty of Tenerife’s waters, making lifelong memories and sharing incredible stories about your sea encounters.