There’s something special about Tenerife from the water—and this private outing mixes cliffs, swimming coves, and possible whale sightings into one tight 3-hour run. You’ll start from Puerto Colón, cruise toward La Caleta on the Barco 33, and anchor where the water is clear enough for snorkeling and fish-spotting.

What I like most is that you get included snorkeling equipment (plus snacks, water, and even alcoholic drinks), so you’re not scrambling for gear or extra purchases once you’re aboard. I also like the private setup for up to 8 people, which makes the whole experience feel less rushed and more “your day, your pace,” especially when the captain is deciding where the best sightings and calmer water are.

One thing to plan around: this trip depends on good weather, and that matters not just for comfort but for getting the best time in the bays.

Key things to know before you set sail

• Private group (up to 8) means you’re not stuck with a big crowd’s pace.
• Snorkeling equipment + WiFi are included, so you can swim and stay connected.
• La Caleta stop is the main star, with anchoring in a bay for swimming and fish life.
• Whale watching is part of the route, and at least one group reported pilot whales.
• Time is limited (about 2 hours by the main stop), so you’ll want to be ready to go when you arrive.
• Scuba isn’t included, so this is a snorkeling-and-sightseeing style trip.

Private boat in Tenerife: up to 8, and very “you”

This is a true private boat tour: your group only, up to 8 people. That single detail changes the mood. You’re not negotiating around strangers, and it’s easier for the captain to adjust the day for what’s happening offshore—especially when you’re hoping for marine life sightings.

The tour runs about 3 hours total and starts at 10:00 am. It ends back at the meeting point, so you don’t have to worry about planning a second transfer afterward. There’s also a mobile ticket, the tour is offered in English, and the meeting spot is Av. de Colón, 4 (Costa Adeje area). If you like to travel light, that’s a good sign: you’re not building a complicated day around logistics.

From Puerto Colón to La Caleta: cliffs, open water, and a real change of pace

The cruise begins in Puerto Colón and heads toward La Caleta, where you’ll get ocean views you just can’t get from shore. Think dramatic coastal cliffs, open Atlantic conditions, and that “we’re actually going somewhere” feeling.

Here’s why this part matters: boat time isn’t wasted time. It’s when you’re most likely to get broad ocean perspective, and it’s also when the captain can start searching for wildlife. The plan includes the chance to observe whales in this stretch of Tenerife’s coast, and one recent group specifically mentioned seeing families of pilot whales. That’s the kind of detail that can make the whole trip feel instantly worth it.

Then the plan shifts “from cruising to hanging out”—you’ll anchor in the bay at La Caleta. Anchoring is a practical win: it sets you up for swimming and snorkeling without constant maneuvering.

Whale spotting in Tenerife: what to expect (and what to bring mentally)

Let’s be honest: whales are never a guarantee. But the route is built around that possibility, and it’s the main reason to choose this style of tour instead of a simple scenic cruise.

What I’d tell you to expect:

• You’ll be looking out from the boat while the captain searches along the coast.
• If conditions cooperate, you may see whales close enough for clear watching from the waterline.
• You may not see anything—but you still get the high-value bay time at La Caleta.

The most common “value” of whale trips is not just the sighting; it’s the way the ocean changes your focus for a bit. Even on days with no whales, you’re still out in clear open water with time to snorkel and swim.

La Caleta snorkeling and swimming: clear water, fish life, and optional turtle luck

La Caleta is where the tour earns its keep. The day plan calls for time after anchoring where you can swim in crystal clear water and enjoy underwater life—plus the chance of seeing turtles “sometimes,” according to the tour concept.

Snorkeling equipment is included, which is a big deal for value. You don’t need to rent gear or pay extra on the spot. And because the main focus here is snorkeling (not scuba), you can keep things simple: put on the mask, float a bit, and let the bay do the work.

A practical note: you’ll also have a window where fishing is possible. The tour description frames it as part of the marine-fauna experience in the Atlantic. If you’re curious about fishing in these coastal waters, ask the captain before you start—rules and local practice can vary by day and conditions. Either way, the center of gravity is snorkeling and swimming among the fish.

One small consideration: snorkeling time is limited by the overall 3-hour schedule. That’s normal on short boat tours, but it means you should be ready to hop in quickly once the boat stops.

El Puertito de Armenime: a shorter stop for lagoon fun

After La Caleta, the itinerary heads along the southern coast back toward land with a second stop at El Puertito de Armenime. This is a shorter visit (about 30 minutes), centered on a beautiful lagoon where you can swim and go underwater, plus have a good time.

This stop is less about “major wildlife” and more about adding variety: a different kind of water and a quick break before the tour ends. If you’re the kind of traveler who wants at least two different swim spots in one morning, this stop helps a lot. If you were hoping for a long second snorkel session, 30 minutes can feel tight—so don’t treat this as the main snorkeling block. La Caleta is the big one.

Onboard comfort: snacks, water, drinks, and WiFi

This tour includes snacks and bottled water, plus alcoholic beverages. It also includes WiFi, which is not something you expect on a boat day (so it’s a nice perk if you need to stay in touch or just post those water photos).

Comfort-wise, this is the kind of add-on that makes people relax. When you’re not paying for drinks and you don’t have to wait in line at a café before boarding, you spend more time focusing on the sea.

And yes, it’s a private tour—so the “rhythm” is friendlier. You can settle in, take photos when the captain calls out something offshore, then swim when the timing works.

Price and value: $417 per group up to 8

The price is $417 per group (up to 8), for about 3 hours. On the surface, that sounds like a lot—until you break it down the way you actually travel.

This is value if:

• You’re traveling with 4–8 people and want a private boat rather than a shared tour.
• You care about having snorkeling equipment included.
• You want a morning activity that bundles ocean views, swim time, and a wildlife-focused search.

It may not feel like value if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, because you’re paying for the whole group capacity. But if you can split the group cost with friends or family, it becomes one of those “surprisingly reasonable for what you get” experiences.

Also, there’s no scuba equipment included, so keep that in mind. This trip is built for snorkeling and swim-and-watch, not certified scuba sessions.

Who should book this trip (and who should skip it)

Best fit for:

• People who want snorkeling gear included and don’t want extra rentals.
• Small groups up to 8 who want privacy and a flexible-feeling captain-led route.
• Travelers who enjoy ocean wildlife chances (especially the chance for whale sightings).
• Anyone who prefers a simple, short-duration plan over a full-day boat outing.

Maybe not ideal if:

• You’re hoping for guaranteed whale sightings. The ocean doesn’t run on schedules.
• You want scuba as the main activity. Scuba equipment is not included.
• You dislike being on a boat for 3 hours when the weather isn’t perfect—this tour requires good weather.

Simple practical tips so your day runs smoothly

• Bring swim-ready basics: you’ll be in and out of the water at La Caleta, and you’ll likely want to use snorkeling equipment quickly after the anchor drop.
• Wear sun protection. You’re moving along the coast and spending time in open water.
• Be flexible about marine life. If the captain finds strong activity, you’ll want to keep your plans open for where they position the boat.
• If you’re serious about underwater time, prioritize La Caleta. The lagoon stop at El Puertito de Armenime is shorter.

One more helpful detail: service animals are allowed, and the meeting point is near public transportation. If you’re building your Tenerife plan around easy connections, that’s worth noting.

Should you book this private boat tour?

If you want a short private ocean day with snorkeling gear included, a real chance at whale sightings, and two swim opportunities (La Caleta first, El Puertito de Armenime second), I think this is a smart booking—especially for groups.

I’d only hesitate if you’re scuba-focused or you know weather won’t cooperate during your dates. Otherwise, this is the kind of experience that turns a morning into something you’ll remember for the water clarity and the feeling of watching wildlife from up close.

FAQ

What’s the duration of the private boat tour?

The tour lasts about 3 hours.

How much does it cost, and how many people can be in a group?

It costs $417 per group and accommodates up to 8 people.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 10:00 am.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s private, so only your group participates.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What’s included in the price?

Snacks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, snorkeling equipment, and WiFi are included.

Is scuba included?

No. Scuba equipment is not included.

Where do you meet?

You meet at Av. de Colón, 4, 38660 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Does it depend on weather?

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

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