Tenerife: Catamaran Cruise with Brunch and Unlimited Drinks

Whales and dolphins are the bonus on this trip. It is a simple, scenic Tenerife catamaran cruise out of Las Galletas area with live guide commentary, plus a 100% Canarian brunch built around local ingredients. I like the relaxed pace, you can do nothing, watch the coast slide by, and still get plenty of action at the wildlife stops.

One thing to plan for is the drinks setup: unlimited means beer and soft drinks, with water also included. If you are hoping for wine, cocktails, or champagne, those cost extra.

Key Points at a Glance

• Live commentary for wildlife spotting as you scan for dolphins, pilot whales, turtles, and flying fish
• 100% Canarian brunch that changes depending on the 3-hour vs 4-hour option
• An ocean swim stop where you can jump in, and snorkel only if you bring your own gear (not included)
• Coast-hugging viewpoints passing Las Galletas, Los Cristianos, and Palm-Mar for photos
• Unlimited drinks that are mostly beer and soft drinks (wine and cocktails are extra)
• Pickup and drop-off in Tenerife South via multiple hotel and resort options

Why This Tenerife Catamaran Cruise Feels Like a Good Half-Day

This is one of those Tenerife activities that stays fun even if you do not consider yourself a boat person. You start on land with pickup, you transfer to Marina del Sur, and then you are on the water for long stretches where the biggest job is finding a comfortable spot and keeping an eye out for wildlife.

I especially like the combo of wildlife time plus food that does not feel like a random afterthought. Many boat tours give you snacks, here you get a proper brunch with a Canarian focus, so the trip has a clear payoff even if the seas are calm and you just want a great afternoon.

The crew keeps things moving, but it never turns into a hard sell. Based on what I have seen from how this runs, you should expect a friendly, professional vibe and a group that usually feels social rather than packed.

Getting There: Marina del Sur, Pickup, and the Smooth Start

Your day usually begins with pickup from select Tenerife South locations. There are lots of options, and the meeting point is tied to where you stay, so you do not have to figure out transport on your own.

After pickup, there is a coach transfer (about 45 minutes) to the marina. Once you are at Marina del Sur, you get aboard and head out west along the coast. This matters more than it sounds: it means you are not spending your limited time driving around the island or waiting around to depart.

Practical tip: be on time. The drivers wait only briefly after your scheduled pickup window, so if you are prone to underestimating walk time, build in buffer.

Punta Rasca Lighthouse: The Best Wildlife Watch Zone

One of the highlights is the stretch around Punta Rasca Lighthouse, where the cruise slows down for wildlife watching (about 45 minutes). This is where the live guide commentary comes in handy. You are not just staring at the horizon, you are getting real-time context on what you might be seeing and where to look.

You can get dolphin and whale sightings, and the species reported on this route include pilot whales and dolphins. You may also spot turtles and flying fish. Even if wildlife stays elusive on your specific day, this part of the tour is still usually the most “wow” section because the boat is actively searching rather than just cruising past.

What I like here is the way the crew handles animal encounters. In my experience, the best wildlife tours keep distance and let the animals do their own thing. The tours on this route are set up for respectful watching, with the crew focused on steering and spotting rather than chasing.

Diego Hernández Beach: Brunch, Swimming, and Snorkeling Setup

After wildlife time, you reach the stop at Diego Hernández Beach. This is where the trip shifts from watching to doing. The lunch and swim break is around 1 hour, which is enough time to eat, cool down, and decide if you want to try snorkeling.

The brunch is one of the main reasons this catamaran stands out. The menu is Canarian and 100% Canarian, and it differs based on the cruise duration:

• For the 3-hour option: sandwich with roast turkey, seasonal fruit, and cheesecake
• For the 4-hour option: sandwich with roast turkey, suckling pig burrito, vegetable dumplings, and cheesecake

That difference is worth noting. If you are hungry for a fuller meal, the 4-hour option gives you more variety and a more “real brunch” feel, not just a boxed lunch.

You also get unlimited refreshments on board, plus water. For swimming, you should expect a casual dip. The tour does not include snorkel equipment, so if you want to snorkel, bring your own mask and snorkel or be ready to stick to swimming.

Practical tip: if you get seasick, take it seriously on open-water days. One passenger had a rough time due to motion, and it is one of those reminders that you cannot outsmart the ocean. If you know you are sensitive, consider bringing motion-sickness help and choose a more stable seating spot if there is an upgrade option.

Passing Tenerife’s Coast: Las Galletas, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, and Palm-Mar

After the swim and brunch break, the cruise keeps moving along the coastline with short sightseeing sections. You pass Las Galletas, then later you are in the area of Playa de las Américas and Playa de Los Cristianos (with short visits and boat cruise segments), plus a photo stop at Palm-Mar.

You are looking at cliffs, beaches, and the coastline from the water. This part is not about intense activities. It is about enjoying the coastal views without the stress of traffic or parking.

If you are the type who likes a “constant postcard” experience, these passes and short stops make sense. If you only care about wildlife, you might find this section a bit more relaxed than the main search area near Punta Rasca.

Drinks and Food: Unlimited Beer and Soft Drinks, with Wine and Cocktails Extra

Here is the clear rule that helps you plan your spending. Unlimited means beer and soft drinks, plus water. Wine, cocktails, and champagne are not included.

I like that this is straightforward, because it keeps the cruise from turning into a surprise bill. Just remember: if you want Canarian wine with brunch or a cocktail after swimming, you will be paying for it.

There are also options for preferred seating or extra-cost upgrades. People have reported upgrades like side beds or a VIP front arrangement that made lounging easier. Some passengers even mention perks like towels with certain setups, which can be a nice “save space in your bag” benefit if you travel light.

One more smart tip from real-world experience: bring cash just in case. At least one passenger noted that card payments out at sea did not process when connectivity failed. Most places still accept cards, but cash gives you peace of mind.

The On-Board Vibe: Comfort, Group Size, and What the Crew Actually Does

This tour typically runs with a manageable group size. One review experience put it around 50 people, which is big enough to feel lively but small enough that the boat does not feel chaotic. The crew is on constant duty, scanning the water, running commentary, and serving food and drinks.

I like that the staff are not just handing out items and vanishing. Live commentary is part of the design, and it helps you understand what you are seeing rather than guessing.

Seating can matter if you get tired or you just want to lie down and let the breeze do the work. Some people choose beds or VIP seating so they can recline more comfortably for the longer time on the water. Even without upgrades, the general experience is built around relaxing, with frequent chances to look out and then cool off during the beach stop.

Who This Trip Suits Best (and Who Might Want to Rethink It)

This cruise is best for you if you want:

• A low-effort Tenerife afternoon with pickup and drop-off
• Wildlife spotting with real-time guidance
• Brunch that actually feels like a meal
• Unlimited beer and soft drinks without thinking about it all day

It is less ideal if:

• You strongly prefer premium drinks included in the price, since unlimited is beer and soft drinks only
• You want snorkeling but do not want to bring equipment, because snorkel gear is not included
• You know you are very prone to seasickness and do not take measures ahead of time

If you are traveling with teens, this is a good “everyone can find their thing” option: wildlife spotting is exciting, swimming breaks up the boredom, and brunch takes care of the hunger problem.

Should You Book This Tenerife Catamaran Cruise?

I would book it if you are looking for value in an easy half-day format. At around $71 per person, you are paying for transportation from Tenerife South, time on the open water with live guide commentary, a Canarian brunch, and unlimited beer and soft drinks. For many people, that combination is the sweet spot between “worth it” and “not too long.”

I would think twice if your plan depends on wine, cocktails, or champagne included. You can still have a great time, but you should budget for extras. Also, if snorkeling is a must for you, remember that equipment is not included, so pack accordingly.

If your ideal Tenerife day includes sea air, coastal views, and a decent chance at dolphins or pilot whales, this cruise fits the bill. Just keep your expectations realistic about which drinks are actually included, and you will enjoy it a lot more.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The experience runs about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the option you choose.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included for select Tenerife South locations.

What food is included in the brunch?

The brunch is Canarian and 100% Canarian. For the 3-hour option it includes a sandwich with roast turkey, seasonal fruit, and cheesecake. For the 4-hour option it includes a sandwich with roast turkey, suckling pig burrito, vegetable dumplings, and cheesecake.

Are drinks like wine and cocktails included?

No. Unlimited beverages include beer, soft drinks, and water. Wine, cocktails, and champagne are not included.

Is snorkel equipment provided?

No. Snorkel equipment is not included.

What are the cancellation and booking options?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.