Pilot whales and local snacks, on a sailboat. This private 3-hour trip runs from Puerto Colón on a Beneteau Oceanis 44, with authorization to watch whales in Tenerife’s south waters. I like that it’s set up as a relaxed day-on-the-water plan, not a rushed checklist.

Two things I really like: you get a full-sail departure toward the Atlantic (so you’re feeling the wind, not just sitting on a motor), and you’ll enjoy a proper spread of local food and cold drinks while you search the marine life. One consideration: at $623 per private group up to 11, it’s best if you’re splitting the cost with friends or family, because shared tours will usually be cheaper.

Key things that make this whale watching feel worth it

• Full sail from Puerto Colón toward the Atlantic, for a more “Tenerife at sea” start.
• Pilot whales are the target, with dolphins also on the menu (and turtles are part of the local fauna you can watch for).
• Comfort-first Beneteau Oceanis 44 layout, including shade under the roof at all times.
• Snorkeling time at Los Cristianos, plus snorkeling equipment included.
• Free van pick-up in Costa Adeje and nearby areas (up to 8 people).
• Canarian snack-and-drink setup for your crew, not just light refreshments.

Tenerife whale watching from Puerto Colón: why this works

If you want Tenerife whale watching that feels like an outing instead of an all-day mission, this one is designed for you. You start in Puerto Colón in the island’s south, where the boat is already moored and ready to go. From there, you head out looking for marine life in the Atlantic waters where the team has whale-watching authorization.

The reason this matters is simple: you’re not just hoping to spot something random. The tour is built around the local species that regularly show up in these southern waters, especially pilot whales. And even if whales are the main goal, dolphins, turtles, and other sea life are part of the overall “keep your eyes open” plan.

Also, the group format is private. That changes the vibe. Instead of squeezing into a crowd, you get a calmer pace where you can take photos, chat, and actually enjoy the ride.

The Beneteau Oceanis 44 comfort details you’ll notice right away

This trip runs on a Beneteau Oceanis 44 sailboat (the materials describe it as 12 meters in one place and 14 meters in another), and the comfort choices are practical.

Here’s what stands out in day-to-day terms:

• Shade roof at all times: you’re not baking in direct sun the whole time. That’s a big deal in the Canaries.
• Spacious interior: a large living room with seating and a table that fits eight people, plus two sofas. It’s the kind of space where you can relax if you’re taking a few photos and want a break from the wind.
• Cabin storage: cabins have wardrobes and drawers, so you’re not living out of a bag.
• Bathroom access that feels less “boat-tiny”: aft cabins have direct access to bathrooms with showers and hot water.
• Energy and water independence: solar panels and an energy setup described as independent, plus 900 liters of water autonomy. Translation: fewer worries about comfort running out mid-tour.

It’s not a floating luxury hotel, and it’s still a sailing day—but the layout is built for real comfort. You’ll feel it most during the “in-between” stretches, when you’re enjoying the sea time while waiting for wildlife.

Getting there: Puerto Colón Gate 5 and the easy pick-up plan

The meeting point is Puerto Colón, Gate 5, and the tour ends back at the same place. If you’re coming from the south resorts, there’s a free pick-up van (max 8 pax) covering Costa Adeje, Playa Paraíso, Palm Mar, and Los Cristianos.

Why I like this setup for your planning: it reduces the stress of figuring out transport once you’re already on Tenerife. And since it’s a private group, your timing matters—getting to the marina without a scramble lets you start the trip calm.

Bring a sun hat and towel. That’s all the “must” list you’re given, and it’s honestly the right direction: sun and saltwater.

Stop by stop: how the 3 hours are paced

This is a 3-hour private excursion, with time carved into several parts that keep it interesting: sailing out, searching, then a break for snorkeling and food tasting.

Stop 1: Puerto Colón (starting point)

You meet at Puerto Colón, Gate 5, then you’re set for departure. The tour starts with the kind of staging that matters: you’re on an active sailing boat, not a dock-side show. Once you’re aboard, the goal becomes simple—get out to the Atlantic and start scanning.

Stop 2: Costa Adeje sailing stretch (about 45 minutes)

This is your main sailing block: you head from Puerto Colón toward the Atlantic Ocean, with Costa Adeje on the route. It’s around 45 minutes of moving time, and this is where the “full sail” detail really affects your experience.

With sail time, you’re more in sync with the coast than if the boat were purely motor-driven. You also get the slow, watchful rhythm that whale watching works best with: less frantic movement, more time to look.

What to do during this segment: stay on deck when you feel like it, then take breaks under the roof shade. Watch for surf lines and changes in the water—wildlife spotting often comes down to noticing the sea’s behavior, not just staring at the horizon.

Stop 3: Secret stop for dolphins and whales (about 20 minutes)

This is the short, high-focus part. There’s a secret stop where the plan is dolphin watching and whale watching for about 20 minutes.

The time window matters. It’s short enough to keep the search meaningful and intense, but long enough that you should get at least some sustained viewing time if wildlife is nearby. This is the section you’ll want to be present for: minimal distractions, good camera readiness, and your best “quiet attention” posture.

Pilot whales are specifically mentioned as the ones you can spot in the local Canarian waters. Dolphins are also in the mix, and turtles are part of the broader marine fauna the tour expects you might see.

Stop 4: Yacht time (about 50 minutes)

After the wildlife-focused stop, you get about 50 minutes onboard as the sailing and wildlife searching continues. This is often the “sweet spot” for the trip. You’re not in constant scanning mode; you’re enjoying being at sea on a comfortable boat while the guide keeps an eye out.

If you’re traveling with mixed ages or people who get restless, this longer onboard stretch is a smart buffer. It helps keep the mood relaxed, which matches what you want from a private tour.

Stop 5: Los Cristianos break for snorkeling + food tasting (about 30 minutes)

Next is Los Cristianos, with about 30 minutes for a break, including snorkeling and food tasting.

Snorkeling equipment is available, so you’re not showing up empty-handed. And the food tasting isn’t an afterthought—it’s paired with the swim time, which keeps the whole sequence feeling like a proper excursion rather than “quick dip, then done.”

What to expect in practical terms: you’ll have limited time in the water, so focus on doing one good snorkeling session rather than trying to do it all. When you get back, take the shade and re-center with the snacks and drinks.

Stop 6: Back to Puerto Colón

You return to the meeting point at Puerto Colón. The pacing keeps the total time tight, which is ideal if you’re on a holiday schedule and don’t want a big half-day commitment.

Wildlife spotting: what you’re actually hunting for

This is a pilot whale-focused experience, and that focus changes how you should judge the outing. The tour is authorized for whale watching in the south of Tenerife, and the main species mentioned is pilot whales.

You can also look for:

• Dolphins during the wildlife stop
• Turtles as part of the marine fauna you may spot
• Other local sea life as conditions allow

Here’s a helpful way to think about your odds without overpromising: wildlife sightings depend on the water and what’s happening in the area at that time. The good news is you’re working with a plan that includes a dedicated stop for whale and dolphin watching, not just “maybe we’ll see something.”

Also, the private format helps. If you’re not packed shoulder-to-shoulder, you can reposition more easily, and the boat crew can guide attention more comfortably.

The snack-and-drink setup on board (and why it matters)

A lot of tours say snacks. This one is more specific, and that’s the difference between a distraction and a real part of the experience.

You’ll get:

• Local food tasting, including cheeses, mixed local salami, jams, olives, tomatoes, hummus, nachos, Canarian mojo sauce, breads, fresh and nuts
• Cold drinks such as cava, white wine, beer, cola, Sprite, Fanta, and water

Why this is a big deal for your enjoyment: you’re spending time outside, at sea, often in sun and wind. Food and drinks keep the energy up so the tour doesn’t turn into a hangry endurance test.

Also, the description mentions snacks offered for the crew—so you can expect a steady, cared-for rhythm rather than a last-minute picnic.

Price and value: $623 for a group up to 11

Let’s talk numbers. The price is $623 per group up to 11 people, for a 3-hour private whale watching sailing tour.

Is that expensive? Yes, compared to shared group tours. But here’s where value comes in:

• You’re paying for a private sailing experience, not a seat on a larger vessel.
• The tour includes snacks and cold drinks, plus snorkeling equipment.
• You get a full-sail departure concept (not just motor cruising).
• There’s free van pick-up from several southern areas (for groups up to the van’s capacity).

If you have a group—say 6 to 10 people—you’re likely splitting the cost into something that feels much more reasonable per person for a premium, private wildlife outing with food included.

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, the per-person math will sting. In that case, you might want to compare against shared options and decide whether privacy and the specific boat experience are your priority.

Who this tour suits best (and who should choose another option)

This tour fits you if:

• You want pilot whale watching with a private group pace
• You like sailing time and not just “go see, then go home”
• You care about comfort: shade roof, spacious seating, and a real onboard plan
• You want snorkeling without extra hassle (equipment included)
• You’re traveling in a group that can actually share the cost

It might not be ideal if:

• You’re looking for a long, slow day on the water. This is 3 hours, and it’s paced.
• Your budget is strict and you can’t share the group cost.

Quick practical tips before you go

• Wear swim-friendly clothing and plan for saltwater spray.
• Bring your sun hat and use the roof shade when you need it.
• Keep your towel dry and accessible for after snorkeling.
• If you’re camera-focused, do quick checks before the wildlife stop so you’re not fumbling around when the action starts.

One more practical note: you’re sailing and spotting in Atlantic conditions. Dress for sun and wind, not just sun.

Should you book 3-hour private pilot whale sailing in Tenerife?

I’d book it if you want a private Tenerife whale watching experience that’s focused, comfortable, and tied to the kind of marine life found in the south—especially pilot whales. The combination of full sail, a dedicated wildlife viewing segment, snorkeling in Los Cristianos, and a defined snack-and-drink spread makes it more than a boat tour with a vague promise.

I’d think twice if the group price doesn’t make sense for your party size. In that case, either plan with friends or family to split the cost, or consider a shared tour where you’re not paying for exclusivity.

If your goal is a calm, well-run 3 hours on the water with actual time devoted to spotting whales, dolphins, and more—it’s a strong pick.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point and where do we return?

You meet at Puerto Colón Gate 5, and the activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s a private group experience.

How long is the whale watching tour?

The duration is 3 hours.

Do you get snorkeling time and equipment?

Yes. There is snorkeling included during the Los Cristianos break time, and snorkeling equipment is available.

What animals are you looking for?

The tour targets pilot whales in the south of Tenerife, and it also notes dolphins, turtles, and other local marine fauna.

Is pick-up available from nearby areas?

Yes. There is a free pick-up van with capacity up to 8 pax for areas including Costa Adeje, Playa Paraiso, Palm Mar, and Los Cristianos.

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