Tenerife: Snorkeling Tour in a Marine Protected Area

If you’re thinking about exploring Tenerife’s vibrant marine life, a guided snorkeling excursion might just be the perfect fit. This tour, rated a solid 5 out of 5 from hundreds of happy travelers, promises a gentle, family-friendly way to discover colorful fish, sea turtles, and rocky reefs in a calm, protected bay. It’s a chance to see marine wonders without the need for previous experience, making it accessible for most visitors.

What really sets this tour apart are the professional guides who go out of their way to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, and the free photos and videos that serve as a lasting souvenir. We also love how the emphasis on marine conservation means respectful interaction with sea creatures — touching and feeding are off-limits, which benefits both wildlife and the overall experience.

One potential consideration is that sightings of sea turtles are not guaranteed, since they swim freely in their natural habitat. Windy or poor weather conditions can also sometimes lead to cancellations or changes in plans. Still, the overall value and quality make this a standout choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Tenerife’s underwater world.

This experience suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, family trips, or simply want an easy-going introduction to snorkeling. Whether you’re a first-timer or have some experience, the supportive environment and top-notch gear make it a smart pick.

Key Points

• Accessible for all ages and experience levels with high-quality, well-fitted gear.
• Respectful wildlife interaction promotes conservation and responsible observation.
• Professional multilingual guides ensure safety and a friendly atmosphere.
• Free photos and videos make it easy to remember your underwater adventure.
• Calm, sheltered waters provide excellent visibility and safe conditions.
• Small group size (max 8) allows personal attention and a relaxed vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: An Underwater Adventure in Tenerife

Our review focuses on a snorkeling tour in Tenerife’s marine protected area, which has garnered rave reviews for its friendly guides, stunning marine life, and great value. This excursion offers a chance to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and rocky reef formations without needing prior experience or advanced equipment.

Two things we love about this tour are the professional, multilingual guides who prioritize your safety and respect for marine life, and the free photos and videos that turn a fun activity into a cherished memory. The calm, sheltered waters of Abades Bay mean even novice swimmers can enjoy the experience without fear of strong currents or rough seas.

A possible downside? The turtle sightings—while common—are not guaranteed, since these creatures swim freely in their habitat. Weather conditions like wind or poor visibility could lead to cancellations or a change of plans. Still, the overall experience remains highly recommended, especially for families, first-timers, or anyone looking to enjoy Tenerife’s underwater scenery at a relaxed pace.

Who this tour best suits? Travelers seeking a safe, guided, and eco-friendly way to explore marine life, those interested in memorable photos, and families with young children or seniors.

What You Can Expect: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off from Magilu Beach in Abades, a quiet and accessible spot on Tenerife’s southeastern coast. Participants are asked to arrive about 10 minutes early for a safety briefing and gear fitting. The tour duration is approximately 2 hours, with around 50 minutes dedicated to snorkeling in the water, depending on availability and conditions.

The Snorkeling Environment

The sheltered bay offers tranquil, clear waters—ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The rocky reef formations and coves provide a vibrant home for the marine life you’ll see. Expect to encounter tropical and sub-tropical fish, some hiding among rocks, others swimming freely in the open water.

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Guided Experience and Equipment

Guides, fluent in multiple languages including Spanish, English, Italian, Swedish, Dutch, and German, lead the group through a safety briefing before entering the water. They’re attentive, friendly, and focused on responsible wildlife encounters, making sure you keep a respectful distance from sea turtles and avoid touching marine animals.

The provided gear is high-quality—full wetsuits, masks, snorkels, fins, and boots—all designed for comfort and warmth. The wetsuits help maintain buoyancy and keep you warm in waters that range from 19° to 23°C (March to September). For those with some snorkeling experience, bringing your own camera is allowed, but the guides provide professional underwater photos and videos at no extra cost.

Marine Life Encounters

While sea turtles are a special highlight, sightings are not guaranteed since they roam freely. That said, reviews consistently mention seeing turtles, colorful fish, juvenile stingrays burying in the sand, and even octopuses and seahorses. The guides follow strict protocols to avoid stressing the animals, maintaining a respectful distance and prohibiting feeding or touching.

Family-Friendly and Safety Considerations

This tour is especially suitable for families with children, seniors, and non-swimmers. Assistance is available for those who need it, and the calm waters make for a safe environment. However, participants are asked to be comfortable in the water, and those with pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about motion sickness should plan accordingly.

Photos, Videos, and Memories

One of the tour’s most praised features is the free digital photos and videos taken by the underwater photographer, which are shared via WhatsApp or email after the tour. Many reviewers mention how these images capture the vibrant marine life and their smiling faces, making the experience truly memorable.

Environmental and Ethical Guidelines

The tour emphasizes marine conservation — feeding and touching marine animals are strictly prohibited. Guides explain the importance of respecting their natural habitat, which not only helps protect the ecosystem but also enhances your experience by observing animals behaving naturally.

Bookings, Cancellations, and Practical Tips

Reservations can be made with flexibility, as you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. It’s recommended to wear your swimsuit under your clothes and arrive 10 minutes early. Bring sunscreen, water, and possibly a waterproof camera if you want to capture your own shots.

Why This Snorkeling Tour Offers Great Value

At $40 per person, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. The gear quality, guided attention, and free photos make it more than just a splash in the water. Plus, the small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures personal attention, making it feel more like a private adventure. The unequaled combination of safety, professionalism, and natural beauty wins many positive reviews, with guests frequently remarking on how much they saw and learned.

The Authentic Touch

Many reviews highlight how guides like Raffaella and Ron make the experience special—they’re described as “warm,” “friendly,” and “respectful of marine life.” This approach doesn’t just make for an enjoyable trip but fosters responsible tourism, which is important when exploring delicate ecosystems.

The Experience for Different Travelers

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this snorkeling tour offers enough flexibility and support to suit your needs. It’s perfect for beginners who want a safe, guided introduction, and for more experienced snorkelers who enjoy sharing the activity with others. The calm waters and professional guidance also make it a good choice for seniors or those concerned about water safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive high-quality gear, including a mask, snorkel, fins, boots, and wetsuit, along with a 50-minute guided snorkeling experience, free photos and videos, multilingual instructors, insurance, and water.

Are there any age restrictions?
This activity is suitable for all ages, including children and seniors, with assistance available. However, minors must be under adult supervision at all times.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
No experience is necessary; the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, and the provided wetsuits and guidance help everyone feel comfortable.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, if you have previous snorkeling experience, you can bring your own camera to capture the underwater sights.

What should I wear?
It’s best to arrive wearing your swimsuit, as the tour starts from the beach. Sunscreen and waterproof accessories are also recommended.

Is it safe to swim here?
Yes, with professional guides, calm waters, and good equipment, the tour is very safe. Assistance is provided for those who need it.

Can I see sea turtles?
There’s a good chance, but sightings depend on the turtles’ natural movements. They are not guaranteed, but many guests do see them.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity might be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather or adverse sea conditions. The tour provider will contact you the day before.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, with 50 minutes spent in the water snorkeling.

Is there any special preparation needed?
Arrive 10 minutes early for safety briefing. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider medication. No lifting or transportation is involved, as it begins at the beach.

The Final Word

This Tenerife snorkeling tour offers a fantastic blend of fun, safety, and ecological responsibility. It’s a wonderful way to experience the island’s underwater beauty without the need for prior experience or equipment hassle. The guides’ professionalism and the quality of the gear ensure you’re well cared for, whether you’re a nervous beginner or a seasoned swimmer.

It’s particularly well-suited for families, those who want a relaxed, authentic encounter with nature, and travelers looking for a memorable souvenir in the form of stunning photos and videos. The small group size, respectful wildlife interaction, and the opportunity to possibly see sea turtles make this a standout activity—one that fits well into any Tenerife itinerary.

If you’re eager to enjoy calm waters, vibrant marine life, and responsible tourism, this tour is a smart pick. It’s not just a snorkel; it’s a genuine, hands-on way to connect with the sea and create lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: