REVIEW · TENERIFE
Sailing Yacht on a Private Charter
Book on Viator →Operated by Tenerife First Excursions · Bookable on Viator
Dolphins, snacks, and salty air. That’s the feel of this half-day private yacht charter off Tenerife, where you glide along the coast at a relaxed pace and get chances at marine life sightings from the water. It’s built for people who want a calmer way to see the island without the constant buzz of bigger tours.
I really like two things here: the included food and drinks (including alcoholic options), and the onboard setup that makes it easy to take part in snorkeling and swimming if conditions allow. Even better, you’re not stuck in a crowd—this runs as a small private charter.
One thing to consider: since you’re on a sailboat, ask a quick question about whether you’ll actually be sailing versus mostly cruising by engine. One past guest was disappointed because the mainsail wasn’t working as expected, so it’s worth confirming you’ll get the true sailing experience you’re paying for.
In This Review
- Key things I’d mark on your map
- A 3-hour private sail is the sweet spot in Tenerife
- Meeting at Puerto Colón and getting comfortable fast
- Coastline cruise: views, quiet, and wildlife time
- Snacks, drinks, and that post-sun glow
- Snorkeling and swimming: gear ready, weather calling the shots
- The sailboat reality check: when sailing is the goal
- Who this private charter fits (and who might want something else)
- Price and value: what $74 buys you on the water
- Tips to make your day smoother
- Should you book this private yacht charter from Puerto Colón?
- FAQ
- How long is the private yacht charter?
- Where does the charter start and end?
- What’s included on board?
- Are alcoholic drinks included?
- Do they offer vegetarian or vegan food?
- What happens if weather isn’t good?
Key things I’d mark on your map
- Private charter, small group size up to 11 passengers, so you get personal attention
- Marine life watching built in, with chances to see dolphins and pilot whales (and turtles are possible)
- Snorkeling gear plus life vests on board, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute
- Included snacks and drinks: baguettes, seasonal fruit, and beer/wine/Cava
- Wi‑Fi on board, useful for sharing photos or checking plans afterward
- 3 hours on the water with time to relax, take in views, and choose swim time if weather cooperates
A 3-hour private sail is the sweet spot in Tenerife
Tenerife can be a lot. Big roads, busy viewpoints, and sun that starts strong and ends fast. A half-day yacht charter fits nicely because you get that ocean time without sacrificing your whole afternoon.
You’re spending roughly three hours on the water, cruising along the Tenerife coastline from Puerto Colón in Playa de las Américas. That timing matters. You get enough time for the best part—out on open water where sightings are more realistic—without feeling rushed back before your next plan.
Also, private doesn’t just mean quieter. It usually means the skipper can set the day’s rhythm for your group: how long to hang out near wildlife, when to offer the swim option, and how much time to spend on photos and views.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Tenerife
Meeting at Puerto Colón and getting comfortable fast
Your start point is Puerto Colón (Puerto Colón, Playa de las Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain). It ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not dealing with the hassle of transfers across town at the end of a fun day.
This charter is set up for practical ease:
- Mobile ticket for the day
- Near public transportation, if you’re not driving
- Most travelers can participate
- Service animals allowed
Once you’re on board, you’ll get into “vacation mode” quickly. The day includes life vests, and you don’t need to bring snorkeling gear. That takes away a bunch of stress, especially if your trip includes other activities where gear storage is a headache.
If you’re the type who likes to arrive with a plan, I’d do this: bring a swimsuit you don’t mind getting sandy-salty, plus a towel (unless you know you’ll have one). Even with onboard gear, you’ll want to be comfortable before you step back into regular clothing.
Coastline cruise: views, quiet, and wildlife time
The whole point of the trip is relaxed sailing time with whale and dolphin watching as a core feature. From the information provided, you’re set up for encounters with dolphins, whales, and turtles, and that’s backed by what people have enjoyed: dolphins and pilot whales are recurring highlights.
The vibe is calm. Since this is a private charter (not a cattle-style boat), you’re not constantly being shuffled or blocked by other groups. You can lean back, scan the water, and actually pay attention.
A small detail that matters: you’re also getting Wi‑Fi on board. Even if you don’t care about checking the internet, it’s handy for quick logistics—sending a message, confirming dinner plans, or posting a photo while everything is still fresh.
If you’re hoping for marine life, here’s the real-world tip: bring patience. Wildlife sightings depend on where the animals are that day. What you can control is how you show up—be ready for a slower, attentive pace rather than expecting instant action every minute.
Snacks, drinks, and that post-sun glow
One reason this charter feels like good value is that it doesn’t stop at “we’ll take you on a boat.” It feeds you. You’ll have beer, wine, soft drinks, Cava, and water, plus food on board.
Food included is:
- Ham and cheese baguettes
- Fresh seasonal fruits
- Vegan and vegetarian options available
That matters more than it sounds. In a lot of tours, you either buy overpriced snacks later or you end up hungry while everyone else is enjoying their day. Here, you can keep your energy steady while you’re out on the water and deciding whether to snorkel.
And yes, there’s alcoholic drink included. So this is a great option for groups where someone wants to relax with a glass while others focus on the sea. If you prefer non-alcoholic, you’ve got soft drinks and water too.
My practical advice: pace the drinks. Three hours passes fast, and the sun + salt air can sneak up on you. Stay hydrated, and you’ll feel better if you decide to get in the water.
Snorkeling and swimming: gear ready, weather calling the shots
This charter includes snorkeling & swimming if the weather permits. That’s the key limitation, and it’s also the most honest one. The ocean doesn’t follow schedules.
You get:
- Snorkeling gear on board
- Life vests
- A built-in swim option during your time on the water
What I like about a setup like this is that it lowers the barrier. You’re not spending your trip figuring out where to rent gear, or how to assemble it quickly. You can spend more of your energy looking at what’s under the surface.
When it’s time to swim, decide based on your comfort level—not just your curiosity. If you’re new to snorkeling, use the life vest, go slow, and keep your expectations realistic. You’re in open water, and conditions can vary.
Also, remember that the best snorkeling moments don’t always happen at the exact center of the tour. They depend on where the skipper finds the best conditions and on water movement that day.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Tenerife
The sailboat reality check: when sailing is the goal
Since this is a sailing yacht, your expectation might be full sail, not just a boat ride. And that’s where I’d be a little picky in a good way.
This charter is on a sailboat, but there’s a chance your experience will lean more toward cruising than lots of dramatic sail maneuvers. One past guest wasn’t happy because they felt the boat wasn’t actually sailing.
How do you protect yourself? Before you go, ask a simple question when you meet the crew:
- Will we be able to sail with the sails up at points during the 3 hours?
Even if the answer is motor-assisted at times (which is common in many coastal experiences), getting a direct explanation helps you know what you’re buying: sailing-focused time or sightseeing-focused time with a sailing yacht in the background.
If you’re mainly there for wildlife, views, snacks, and a calm ocean break, you’re likely to be very happy. If you’re specifically chasing the feeling of being underway under sail, that quick question can save your day.
Who this private charter fits (and who might want something else)
This is ideal if you want:
- A small-group private experience up to 11 passengers
- Personal attention from the skipper
- Included drinks and snacks, including vegetarian options
- A mix of wildlife watching and a possible swim/snorkel stop
It also makes sense for families, friend groups, and anyone who wants a half-day activity that feels like a real escape. The onboard pace lets you take photos without feeling like you’re in a parade.
It might be less ideal if:
- You’re strongly focused on the sailing experience itself (ask the sails question first)
- You’re sensitive to schedule changes tied to weather (snorkeling and swimming depend on it)
Price and value: what $74 buys you on the water
At the listed price of $74, the big value play is what’s included. You’re paying for the boat time, marine-life spotting, snorkeling gear, life vests, and also food and drinks.
When alcohol and snacks are included, the math changes fast. On a typical day-trip, you’d expect to buy at least drinks and food anyway. Here, it’s already part of the package, which is why many people end up feeling like they got more than they expected for a three-hour outing.
Also, private charters can be expensive—this one is positioned as a relatively budget-friendly way to do it without turning it into a whole production. If you’re booking as a group, the value tends to get even better because you’re sharing boat time and included items.
Tips to make your day smoother
You’ll have the most fun if you show up ready for the ocean, not just for the sights.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat. You’ll get sun even on breezy days.
- Wear something you can get a little wet in. Your swim option is weather-dependent, but you won’t regret being ready.
- Use the time to slow down. The real magic is quiet ocean time and scanning for movement.
- If you care about actual sailing, ask about how much they’ll sail versus cruise.
And if you’re traveling with a crew that loves different things—wildlife, photos, swimming—this format works because you can choose your pace without losing the group.
Should you book this private yacht charter from Puerto Colón?
I’d book it if your top priorities are calm private time, dolphin and pilot whale chances, and included food/drinks with an optional snorkeling stop. For many people, that combo hits the sweet spot: you get relaxation plus real activity, without extra rental costs or constant crowd energy.
I’d hesitate only if sailing is your main obsession and you need lots of sail action. In that case, do one quick check about the sails and how often they’ll use them. If they can confirm, you’re set.
If you want a half-day that feels like a break from Tenerife’s busier side, this is an easy yes.
FAQ
How long is the private yacht charter?
It’s about 3 hours on the water.
Where does the charter start and end?
It starts at Puerto Colón in Playa de las Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, and ends back at the same meeting point.
What’s included on board?
Snacks and drinks are included, along with snorkeling gear, life vests, and Wi‑Fi on board.
Are alcoholic drinks included?
Yes. The charter includes beer, wine, and Cava, along with soft drinks and water.
Do they offer vegetarian or vegan food?
Yes. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
What happens if weather isn’t good?
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
