3H Shared Barrier-Free Cruise with Turtles Dolphins & Whales

A Review of the 3H Shared Barrier-Free Cruise with Turtles, Dolphins & Whales

Imagine cruising along Tenerife’s coast on a boat designed for everyone—no stairs, no hassle—just the gentle sway of the Atlantic, the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, and perhaps even snorkel in clear waters. That’s what the 3-hour Barrier-Free Cruise promises. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the enthusiastic reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a unique blend of accessibility, wildlife fascination, and relaxed comfort.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on inclusive design—a boat that caters to guests with mobility challenges. Plus, the combination of marine wildlife sightings and delicious Mediterranean-style snacks makes for a well-rounded experience. The only potential drawback? The tour’s three-hour duration might feel a little brief if you’re craving a longer, more leisurely day at sea, but for many, that’s just enough to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value comfort and accessibility without sacrificing close-up encounters with marine life. Families, seniors, or those with reduced mobility will find it particularly welcoming, while anyone looking for a scenic, wildlife-filled adventure will leave satisfied. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour a standout choice on Tenerife.

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Key Points

• Fully accessible vessel with ramps, secure spaces, and accessible restrooms
• Small group size limits to 10 guests, ensuring personalized attention
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, pilot whales, sea turtles, and fish
• Snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters with assistance available
• Delicious Mediterranean snacks including fresh Italian pasta served onboard
• Ideal for all ages and mobility levels seeking a relaxed, inclusive adventure

The Tour Experience in Detail

An Accessible Adventure from Start to Finish

The first thing that catches your eye with this tour is the boat itself. Recognized as the world’s first fully accessible tourist boat, Santa Rita is a genuinely inclusive vessel. Designed for up to 10 guests, it offers a mix of shaded seating, sunbathing areas, and comfortable cushions. What’s more, the hydraulic platform makes boarding a breeze for wheelchair or mobility scooter users—a feature that truly sets this tour apart in Tenerife, where accessibility is often an afterthought.

If you’re traveling with someone who has reduced mobility, you’ll appreciate the easy entry into the sea via the diving platform, along with a special water wheelchair option. This means everyone gets to enjoy the water, whether they want to snorkel or just dip their toes in the Atlantic.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at the BAT4ALL Barco Accesible Tenerife, where the crew welcomes you and provides a quick briefing. The first stop is Los Cristianos, a lively area perfect for taking photos and soaking in views of the coastline. From here, your cruise heads out into the open water.

The first major highlight is the Guaza Fish Farm, a bustling marine ecosystem where schools of sardines, mackerel, sea bream, and bass swim freely. The fish farm attracts dolphins and sea turtles, so if luck is on your side, you’ll see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. As one reviewer put it, “We saw a turtle and lots of pilot whales,” which matches the expectations for this part of the trip.

Next, you’ll visit Lovers Cave, a stunning sea cave with crystal-clear waters, perfect for photographs or a quick swim. The cave’s dramatic cliffs and the turquoise waters make it a memorable backdrop—great for capturing some holiday snaps.

The open ocean is where the real magic happens—dolphins and pilot whales are frequent visitors, swimming freely and often coming close to the boat. The crew, experienced and friendly, are experts at spotting these creatures, and they do their best to give everyone a good view.

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Snorkeling and Marine Life Viewing

For those eager to get into the water, the tour offers a snorkeling stop in Las Vistas Bay. Gear is provided, and assistance is available, so even less experienced swimmers can enjoy a splash and explore underwater. This segment highlights the tour’s commitment to making marine experiences accessible to all.

Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

After a couple of hours at sea, the boat anchors for a Mediterranean-style pasta dish, freshly prepared and served onboard. As one review notes, “the pasta salad was very delicious”—a simple yet satisfying way to end your adventure. Soft drinks are included, and if you wish, you can purchase alcoholic beverages for a small extra fee.

Throughout the trip, passengers can relax on the artificial grass deck, sunbathe, or unwind in shaded seating. The relaxed pace and intimate group size make it easy to connect with fellow travelers or simply soak in the scenery.

Why Accessibility Matters

The standout feature of this tour is its commitment to accessibility. The hydraulic platform, wheelchair-friendly design, and accessible restrooms mean that travelers with mobility challenges can enjoy the sea just as much as anyone else. As one guest shared, “The crew were fantastic, helping me around the boat,” emphasizing how this tour prioritizes comfort and inclusivity.

Authentic Encounters

Unlike some larger, crowded boats, this experience offers an up-close, personal connection with marine wildlife. Small groups mean better chances for sightings, and the crew’s expertise ensures you’re in good hands. Plus, the chance to see 17 species of whales (including pilot whales and dolphins) is a real highlight, offering a chance to witness these animals in their natural environment.

Value and Price

Considering the inclusions—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and small-group intimacy—the cost seems fair compared to larger, less personal tours. The emphasis on quality, comfort, and accessibility adds value that’s well worth the price for the right traveler.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a relaxed, inclusive way to explore Tenerife’s marine life, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for families, seniors, or travelers with mobility needs who want an authentic experience without physical barriers. The knowledgeable crew, stunning marine sightings, and delicious food make it a well-rounded option.

However, if you’re looking for an extended day at sea, or more adventurous activities like diving, this 3-hour trip might feel a bit brief. Still, it provides a meaningful snapshot of Tenerife’s coast and the creatures that live there.

This tour offers a combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and comfort—a true highlight for anyone wanting to explore Tenerife’s waters with ease and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

Is the boat fully accessible?
Yes, the boat is designed for full accessibility, including ramps, secure wheelchair spaces, and accessible restrooms.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You are likely to see dolphins, pilot whales, sea turtles, and various fish species, especially around the Guaza Fish Farm and open water.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and assistance is available to help everyone enjoy the underwater experience safely.

Are drinks included?
Soft drinks are included, along with a Mediterranean-style pasta dish. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. The boat provides some amenities, but bring personal items as needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, especially given its small group size and accessibility features.

Are private or larger groups available?
Yes, private and small-group options are offered, making it customizable for special occasions or family outings.

Is hotel pickup provided?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point, BAT4ALL, so plan to arrange your own transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the tour date.

In essence, this barrier-free cruise combines the thrill of marine wildlife encounters with the comfort of a fully accessible boat. It’s a thoughtful, friendly way to experience Tenerife’s coast, perfect for travelers eager to enjoy the sea without limits.

You can check availability for your dates here: