REVIEW · TENERIFE
Tenerife: Private Boat Charter with Tapas & Drinks
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Libbys Waterfront SL · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Out on the water, time slows down fast. A private charter on the Libby (a 30-foot Rio 850 cruiser) lets you cruise Tenerife’s south coast at your own pace, with tapas and unlimited premium brand drinks onboard. I love how the crew keeps it personal, with captains like Robert, William, and Noel showing up again and again in guest experiences.
The route is built for big views: rugged Atlantic coastline, mountain peaks, and stops that can include caves and chances to swim. One possible drawback: this is open-water time, so if you’re prone to seasickness, you’ll want to think twice.
In This Review
- Why This Private Charter Feels Like a Treat
- A Few Key Things to Know Before You Go
- A 3-Hour Private Boat Charter from Puerto Colón That Actually Feels Private
- The Libby Cruiser: Seating, Shade, Bathroom, and That Freshwater Shower
- Tenerife’s South Coast Cruise: Rugged Atlantic Views and Cave Stops
- Swimming and Snorkeling: Included Gear, Real-Water Conditions
- Tapas and Unlimited Drinks: How the Onboard Food Actually Works
- The Crew and Captains: Friendly, Hands-On, and Careful with Your Time
- Choosing Your Departure Time: Sunset Feels Different for a Reason
- Getting There: Meeting Point at Pantalan 3 and Simple Packing
- Price and Value: Why $530 for Up to 6 Can Make Sense
- Who This Charter Is Best For (and Who Should Skip It)
- Should You Book This Tenerife Private Boat Charter?
- FAQ
- What boat is used for the charter?
- How long is the private boat charter?
- Where do we meet for the boat trip?
- Is snorkeling gear included?
- What’s included onboard?
- What should I bring, and what’s not allowed?
- Can I cancel for a full refund?
Why This Private Charter Feels Like a Treat
If you want an outing that doesn’t feel like a cattle call, this hits the mark. It’s a private group charter for up to six people, so you can relax on the bow, settle into the interior cabins when the sun gets too brave, and generally do what you came for: enjoy the coastline and the time together.
The food and drinks are part of the fun, not an afterthought. Expect a selection of tapas onboard, plus unlimited premium brand drinks, with a service style that keeps the boat feeling social.
A Few Key Things to Know Before You Go
- Private and small (up to 6 people), which makes the whole 3 hours feel more personal.
- The Libby cruiser is 30 feet with two interior cabins, plus a private bathroom and a freshwater shower.
- South-coast cruising means rugged Atlantic views, mountain backdrops, and cave spotting.
- Snorkeling gear is included, but swimming conditions can be active, so comfort matters.
- You can often spot sea life like dolphins, turtles, and even whales—never guaranteed, but common enough to hope.
- Drinks and food are generous, though one guest noted it may lean toward beer/wine rather than spirits.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tenerife.
A 3-Hour Private Boat Charter from Puerto Colón That Actually Feels Private
This is a private boat charter built around a simple idea: you rent the boat for the afternoon (or morning), you go out with the captain and crew, and you don’t have to share your schedule with anyone else. The boat is the Rio 850 Cruiser named Libby, departing from Puerto Colón in Adeje.
It runs for 3 hours, and you can usually choose from different departure times. That matters on Tenerife. Light changes fast, and the mood of the coast changes with it—especially around sunset.
For groups, the pricing is the first thing that makes people pause—in a good way. At $530 per group up to 6 people, you’re not paying per person. If you fill the group, the cost becomes much easier to justify versus joining a standard sightseeing boat with strangers.
The Libby Cruiser: Seating, Shade, Bathroom, and That Freshwater Shower
What makes the Libby practical is that it’s not only about looking good in photos. You get space that works when the sun is strong and when you want a break.
On deck, there’s ample seating on the bow, plus comfy sun pads. This is where you’ll likely spend most of the time if the weather is kind. It’s also the best spot for coastline views and quick camera stops—without needing to keep changing your position.
When you need shade, the boat has two interior cabins. They provide shelter from sun if you want to cool down or take a breather from the salt air. And yes, there’s a private bathroom onboard, plus a freshwater shower. That shower detail is underrated. After a swim or snorkeling session, it turns an annoying rinse-off into a real reset.
If you like to play your own music, you might be able to connect your playlist (Bluetooth came up in feedback). Even if you’re not trying to be a DJ, it’s a nice way to make the time feel more like your own outing.
Tenerife’s South Coast Cruise: Rugged Atlantic Views and Cave Stops
The big reason to pick the southern coast is the scenery. You’re cruising past a rugged Atlantic coastline with mountain peaks in the background, so the views feel dramatic without needing a long drive inland.
Your captain and crew guide the day. You’ll meander along the coast and take in the rugged stretches, including hidden caves. Even when the plan is simple—slow cruising, sea-life searching, a few photo moments—it works because you’re seeing Tenerife from the water instead of from a bus window.
This trip also has a “floating lookout” vibe. You’re not rushing through a checklist. You’re moving at boat speed, stopping where it makes sense for views and sea conditions, and then getting back out there.
Swimming and Snorkeling: Included Gear, Real-Water Conditions
Here’s the part you’ll either love or you’ll plan around: the trip includes snorkeling gear and includes time to swim. In practice, that usually means the boat anchors and you get a chance to jump in.
Important reality check: one guest noted the water isn’t still, and suggested you’re better off if you’re comfortable swimmers. So if you’re confident in open-water conditions, you’ll likely enjoy the whole experience more. If you’re not, you can still have a great time staying onboard—just don’t expect a calm, bathtub-style swim.
The good news? The boat setup makes it easy. You’ll have shelter in the interior cabins, plus fresh-water rinsing after. And the gear being included means you don’t have to show up hunting for equipment.
Also, the activity isn’t ideal for people prone to seasickness. If you know you get queasy on boats, this is the time to be honest with yourself and choose something else or talk to the operator beforehand.
Tapas and Unlimited Drinks: How the Onboard Food Actually Works
Food onboard is one of the most “you’ll be glad it’s included” parts of this charter. You get a selection of tasty tapas and unlimited premium brand drinks during your 3 hours.
But don’t assume it’s a full sit-down meal. One guest described it as more like a snack board. So if you want to avoid getting hungry, eat beforehand. Think of tapas as a fun pairing to the sea breeze, not your whole lunch plan.
On the drink side, the listing promises unlimited premium brand drinks. Still, one review mentioned limited drink options (beer/wine rather than spirits or cider). That doesn’t mean the experience is bad—it just means if your drink preferences are specific, you should be prepared for the possibility that it’s not a full cocktail bar. The easiest way to enjoy this is to go with what the crew offers that day, and treat the drinks as part of the relaxing pace rather than a bar crawl challenge.
The Crew and Captains: Friendly, Hands-On, and Careful with Your Time
A private charter lives or dies by the captain and crew. The strongest feedback centers on how well people are looked after—comfortable, safe, and genuinely welcomed.
Captains named in experiences include Robert, William, Noel, and Havier. Beyond the names, the repeated theme is care and communication. You’ll likely get clear guidance on when to be ready for swimming, where the best viewing spots are, and how to enjoy the ride without feeling like you’re in the way.
A few examples that make this feel special:
- Some captains invite you to have a go at steering (a simple thrill, but it changes the vibe fast).
- People report the boat being taken toward sea life, including dolphins and whales when conditions allow.
- One guest described a captain bringing the boat along so they could follow dolphins for a while.
This is the kind of tour where the crew turns “3 hours on a boat” into a story you’ll remember—especially if you like that small-group, hands-on feel.
Choosing Your Departure Time: Sunset Feels Different for a Reason
You can pick from various departure times, and that’s not a small detail. It changes the mood, the lighting for photos, and often the kind of sea conditions you experience.
A sunset slot was mentioned at 6:30pm, and that’s exactly the kind of timing that makes sense in the Canaries. You’re still doing active sightseeing, but you get that glow on the water. If you’re trying to make the day feel like a celebration—birthday, anniversary, or just a “we made it!” moment—sunset is a strong choice.
For mornings or earlier slots, the coast can feel crisp and clear, and you may have more daylight for photos and snorkeling comfort. Either way, the 3-hour duration keeps it from dragging.
Getting There: Meeting Point at Pantalan 3 and Simple Packing
Transportation to and from the harbor isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan your ride to Puerto Colón and arrive a few minutes early. The meeting point is Pantalan 3.
What to bring is straightforward, but don’t skip it:
- Hat
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable clothes
On Tenerife, sun can be intense on the water. Sunscreen and a hat aren’t optional. And if you’re snorkeling or planning to swim, bring something you can rinse off without stress.
One more practical note: high-heeled shoes aren’t allowed, and you can’t smoke onboard. Also, alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed. (You’re already getting unlimited drinks as part of the experience, so think of this rule as about keeping things safe and controlled.)
Price and Value: Why $530 for Up to 6 Can Make Sense
At $530 per group (up to 6 people), this charter can be excellent value if you match the group size. The math is simple: if you fill all six spots, you’re effectively paying about $88 per person for a private 3-hour boat with tapas, unlimited premium brand drinks, and snorkeling gear.
But the better comparison isn’t only cost. It’s what you’re buying:
- Privacy (small group, no waiting around for strangers)
- Time on the water (not just looking from shore)
- A captain and crew handling the route and stops
- Onboard perks (bathroom, freshwater shower, shaded cabins)
- Included activities (tap as food, snorkeling gear, swimming time)
If you’re traveling as a couple and can’t fill the group, it can still be worth it if you want a special day with no compromises. Just understand you’re paying for a private boat, not a public attraction.
Who This Charter Is Best For (and Who Should Skip It)
This is a smart pick for:
- Couples or groups who want a private experience without getting stuck in a big-tour schedule
- People celebrating something (one 60th birthday was specifically highlighted)
- Wildlife-watchers who like the chance to see dolphins, turtles, or even whales—when conditions line up
- Anyone who wants a mix of relaxing cruising plus a swim without planning logistics for snorkeling gear
It may not be the right choice for:
- People prone to seasickness
- Folks who want a guaranteed, still-water snorkeling experience (conditions can be active)
- Anyone expecting a full meal that replaces lunch (plan to eat before; tapas are more snack-sized)
Should You Book This Tenerife Private Boat Charter?
I’d book it if you want a simple, high-comfort day on Tenerife’s south coast: boat time, good food, drinks, and the freedom to relax. The combination of a small private group, a boat with shade and bathroom comfort, plus snorkeling gear makes it feel like more than a basic sightseeing trip.
I’d think twice if you get seasick easily or if you strongly prefer specific drink types that go beyond what’s typically offered. And if swimming isn’t your thing, you’ll still enjoy the cruising and views, but the experience will lean more toward relaxing than active water time.
If you’re deciding between public tours and something more personal, this one’s the better match. It turns Tenerife into a few hours you can actually feel—salt air, sun on your face, and a coastline you can’t see the same way from land.
FAQ
What boat is used for the charter?
The charter uses the 30-foot twin-engine Rio 850 Cruiser named Libby.
How long is the private boat charter?
The experience lasts 3 hours.
Where do we meet for the boat trip?
You meet at Pantalan 3.
Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes. Snorkeling gear is included.
What’s included onboard?
Included are the private boat charter, unlimited premium brand drinks, tapas, a private bathroom, snorkeling gear, fuel, and a captain and crew.
What should I bring, and what’s not allowed?
Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Smoking is not allowed, high-heeled shoes aren’t allowed, and alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.
Can I cancel for a full refund?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
