Tenerife Boat Trips: Which Cruise Is Right for You?
Updated 29 October 2026 · DoTenerife
The best Tenerife boat trips leave from Puerto Colón, Los Cristianos and Los Gigantes, with most combining whale and dolphin watching, the Los Gigantes cliffs and a swim stop. Shared trips typically cost roughly €25–€70 per adult for two to five hours, while private yacht charters start from a few hundred euros. Pick the boat type to suit your group: catamarans for comfort and families, sailing yachts for small groups, RIBs for speed, and party boats for groups and celebrations.
Types of boat trip compared
| Trip type | Typical length | Rough price per adult | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catamaran cruise | 2–5 hours | €30–€70 | Families, first-timers, food and drinks included |
| Sailing yacht (shared) | 2–4 hours | €40–€80 | Couples, small groups, quieter wildlife watching |
| RIB / speedboat | 1.5–3 hours | €35–€70 | Thrills, closer to the waterline |
| Glass-bottom boat | 1–2 hours | €20–€35 | Young children, short trips |
| Party boat | 3–4 hours | €40–€70 | Stag and hen groups, birthdays |
| Private charter | Half or full day | from a few hundred euros per boat | Groups, special occasions |
| Fishing trip | 4–6 hours | €50–€100+ | Anglers |
All prices are rough guides and vary by operator, season and what’s included.
Departure ports
Puerto Colón (Costa Adeje)
The biggest choice of trips on the island, from large catamarans to luxury yachts. Close to San Eugenio, Torviscas and Playa de las Americas. Many tours include hotel pick-up from the south.
Los Cristianos
A working harbour with ferries to La Gomera plus a selection of tourist boats, including glass-bottom trips and larger cruises.
Los Gigantes
The closest port to the resident pilot whale grounds and to the cliffs themselves. Trips to Masca Bay usually leave from here. See the Los Gigantes area page.
Las Galletas (Marina del Sur)
Quieter, with smaller operators running sailing, diving and fishing trips.
What a typical trip includes
- Wildlife watching: pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are resident year-round, so sightings are common. No trip can guarantee them. Our whale and dolphin watching guide explains how to choose an authorised, responsible boat.
- Swim or snorkel stop: often in a sheltered bay, with snorkels provided.
- Food and drink: many catamarans include a light lunch, soft drinks and sometimes beer, wine or sangria.
- Transfers: some trips include coach pick-up from main resorts.
Masca Bay cruises
The longer trips from Los Gigantes or Puerto Colón sail beneath the Los Gigantes cliffs, which rise several hundred metres straight out of the sea, to Masca Bay, where the famous gorge meets the sea. Masca Bay is also where hikers walking the regulated Masca trail are picked up by boat, which must be booked separately. See Masca village and gorge.
Party boats and group trips
Party boats are a staple for stag dos and hen dos, with DJs, drinks packages and swim stops. Some are adults-only. Private catamaran or yacht charters give groups exclusive use and are often better value per head for groups of 10 or more.
Tips for booking
- Book through a reputable operator or your hotel’s tour desk rather than street touts.
- Check what’s included: drinks, lunch, snorkelling, transfers and tax.
- Read the cancellation policy: sea conditions can force changes.
- Go in the morning for calmer seas, especially if anyone is prone to seasickness.
- Take seasickness tablets an hour before departure if needed.
- Bring: sun cream, hat, towel, swimwear, a light layer and cash for tips.
Accessibility and children
Larger catamarans are generally the easiest for people with limited mobility, though boarding can involve steps; contact the operator in advance. Children are welcome on most trips, and life jackets in children’s sizes should be provided. Fast RIBs often have minimum ages or are not recommended for pregnant passengers.
Seasonal tips
- Winter (November–March): the busiest season for visitors, so book a few days ahead. Seas can be choppier, and some trips are rescheduled.
- Spring and summer: calmer seas on many days, especially in the mornings. Afternoon trade winds can pick up.
- Autumn: often calm and warm, with the sea at its warmest for swim stops.
After your trip
Puerto Colón sits between San Eugenio and Torviscas, both busy in the evenings. To find live music or a tribute act near the marina, check what’s on tonight or the San Eugenio area page.
Frequently asked questions
Where do boat trips leave from in Tenerife?
Most leave from Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos harbour, Los Gigantes marina and Marina del Sur in Las Galletas.
How much is a boat trip in Tenerife?
Shared trips usually cost roughly €25 to €70 per adult depending on length and what's included. Private yacht charters typically start from a few hundred euros for a half day.
What is the best boat trip in Tenerife?
For most visitors, a three-to-five-hour catamaran trip from Puerto Colón or Los Gigantes combining whale watching, the Los Gigantes cliffs and a swim stop gives the best all-round experience.
Are Tenerife boat trips suitable for children?
Catamarans and larger boats are generally fine for all ages and usually stable. Fast RIBs and some speedboats have minimum ages, so check before booking.
Do boat trips get cancelled in bad weather?
Yes. Operators cancel or reschedule when sea conditions are unsafe, typically with a refund or new date. Check the cancellation policy when you book.