Big boat, big ocean, real-time wildlife spotting. The Luxury Opera 60 combo trip mixes whale and dolphin watching with a proper swim-and-snorkel stop, plus drinks and onboard gear. It’s built for comfort too, so you’re not just staring out a windshield for hours.

I especially love the boat setup: up to 15 people on a huge 60-foot (almost 20 meters) luxury RIB makes the whole outing feel calm instead of crowded. Second, I like that the water time is planned, not an afterthought, with snorkeling equipment, snacks, and even showers waiting after you get back aboard.

One fair heads-up: wildlife isn’t a guaranteed checklist. Some days you’ll see plenty, and some days you might miss dolphins even if you get whales or sea turtles.

Key things to know before you go

• Opera 60 is a 60-foot, 740 HP luxury RIB with twin Volvo Penta engines for a smooth, fast run out
• Small group size (max 15) keeps views open and the vibe relaxed
• Snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks are included on board
• Swimming bay stop with showers onboard means you can get cleaned up fast
• Crew actively scans for marine life and keeps a respectful distance from whales and dolphins
• Departure and return are back at Puerto Colón in Playa de las Américas

Where Opera 60 starts in Tenerife: Puerto Colón and the Playa de las Américas vibe

Your tour starts at Puerto Colón in Playa de las Américas, Tenerife (and you return there). This matters more than you’d think: you’re not dealing with a long transfer or winding road logistics before you even reach the water.

The meeting point is also described as near public transportation, so if you’re staying in the south of the island, you can usually build this into a day without making it your entire itinerary. And because the whole experience is about 3 hours, it’s a strong choice when you want ocean time without surrendering the whole day.

From the reviews, there’s also a consistent theme: the trip leaves on time and the crew focuses on getting you into position for wildlife sightings and then out to the swimming bay.

Opera 60 on the water: big comfort, extra safety, and why it feels different

Let’s talk boat. OPERA 60 is described as the largest and most spacious luxury RIB in Tenerife, and it’s not a bare-bones speedboat. It has a rigid hull with inflatable side defenses, which is exactly the kind of “grown-up” safety detail you want when conditions get choppy.

The specs are impressive: the boat is 60 feet (almost 20 meters) long, powered by two Volvo Penta engines totaling 740 HP. In plain terms, that means you can cover distance efficiently when marine life is out there, instead of spending the whole trip crawling along.

On board, you’re not just standing around. Expect sunbeds, multiple seating areas, two big tables, and quality speakers for music. There’s also a toilet and showers, which turns the snorkel stop from a messy, end-of-day problem into a true part of the experience.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’re more likely to get space around you for pictures and for moving to different viewpoints as the crew spots something offshore.

Whale and dolphin watching: what you actually do during the search

This is a “look for them as you go” style of wildlife watching. The key targets are whales, dolphins, and sea turtles, and the crew keeps an eye out for them while you travel along the coast. Since marine sightings are natural and not staged, your best attitude is simple: be ready to scan, listen, and shift your angle quickly when the boat changes course.

What I like about this setup is how it combines speed with safety. The RIB can move fast enough to reach sightings, while the crew keeps a respectful distance from whales and dolphins. That matters for your experience and for the animals. If you want close viewing without the chaos, this is the right style of operation.

Based on the range of experiences people describe, sightings can include different types of whales and sea turtles, while dolphins can be present—or not. So I’d treat dolphins as a bonus, not a requirement.

Tip for your camera: keep your lens handy, but also enjoy it with your eyes first. When you suddenly see something ahead, that split-second reaction is where the best moments happen.

The swimming and snorkeling bay: the part that makes it feel like a full outing

The trip includes a dedicated stop at a swimming/snorkeling bay. This is where you trade “watching” for “doing.”

The whole point is convenience: snorkeling equipment is provided on board, and you’ll have time in the bay to get in the water and explore. People consistently describe the snorkeling stop as one of the highlights, with them seeing different types of fish and having enough time to actually enjoy the water—not just dip in for a photo.

There’s also a practical comfort angle: after swimming, the boat has showers. That’s a big quality-of-life detail. Saltwater can make you feel sticky fast, and getting cleaned up before you head back to shore changes the tone of the end of the day.

One more value point: the bay stop is paired with food and drinks, so you’re not waiting until you’re back in town to eat. You’re basically turning the middle of the tour into a mini beach day, but without the hassle.

Food, drinks, and the onboard party level (without going overboard)

This trip is known for included refreshments. On board, you’ll find drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment as part of the experience. Many guests describe the drinks as generous, including mentions of champagne and other cool drinks.

The meal is served during the bay stop, and it’s part of why people call this a better-than-typical boat trip. Several reviews describe the food as plentiful and warm, with options like chicken and rice, plus bread. The practical layout—tables on board—also helps. You’re not balancing a plate on your knees while trying to enjoy the ocean.

That said, I’ll be honest about the only notable weak point that shows up in the feedback: one person felt the food was less than ideal and that drink service wasn’t handled smoothly at first. It sounds like an exception, not the norm. Still, if you’re the type who needs constant attention (especially with kids), I’d recommend you settle in early and politely flag what you’d like right away rather than waiting for the next round.

Overall, the drink-and-lunch pairing is what makes this feel like an afternoon out, not a short wildlife chase.

Timing and comfort tips for a smooth 3-hour sea day

Because the tour is about 3 hours, every segment matters. You’ll be on the water long enough to scan for whales and dolphins, then you’ll head to the swimming bay and get real time in the water before returning.

Weather matters too. This experience is described as requiring good weather, and if conditions cancel the trip, you’ll be offered another date or a refund. So plan it with flexibility in mind—this is one of those activities that’s happier when the sea is cooperative.

What I suggest you bring:

• Your swim gear, since you’ll actually get in the water
• Sunscreen and something for wind (even on a bright day, sea air can dry you out fast)
• A dry layer for the ride back, because being wet plus salty air can make you feel chilly

If you’re prone to motion sensitivity, this boat is still a rigid hull with inflatable defenses, but you’ll still want to listen to the crew if the sea state changes.

Price and value: what $96.79 gets you on Opera 60

At about $96.79 per person, this isn’t the cheapest boat option. But you are paying for three things that add real value:

First, you’re paying for a large, comfortable boat with serious power (60-foot length and 740 HP) and a small group cap of 15. That reduces the cramped feeling you get on many smaller departures.

Second, you’re not just watching wildlife from a deck. You’re getting snorkeling gear, time in the water, and onboard showers. That’s the difference between a quick excursion and something you’ll remember.

Third, food and drinks are part of the package. When you add up the practical costs—meal, drinks, and equipment—this price starts to look more reasonable for a 3-hour outing that feels like a half-day plan.

If you’re mostly there for wildlife spotting only, you might find cheaper. But if you want the full combo—whales and dolphins plus swimming—this one earns its spot.

Who should book Opera 60, and who might want a different plan

This is a great fit if you want:

• a comfortable RIB ride instead of a bare-bones boat
• a chance at whales, dolphins, and sea turtles
• a built-in swim and snorkel stop with provided gear
• a group size that stays manageable

It also tends to work well for families because the schedule is simple and the onboard setup is designed for people to relax between sightings and in the bay.

If you’re someone who gets unhappy when wildlife sightings don’t show up exactly how you imagined, temper expectations. The ocean runs the script. But if you’re flexible and enjoy the hunt as part of the adventure, this trip is a strong choice.

Should you book the Luxury Opera 60 experience?

If you want a 3-hour, all-in package that mixes high-end boat comfort with real water time, I’d book Opera 60. The combination of a spacious boat, included snorkeling gear, showers, and onboard food/drinks is what makes it feel like more than a standard wildlife excursion.

I’d book it especially if small-group comfort matters to you and if you plan to actually swim, not just watch from the deck. And keep one expectation in check: dolphins and whales are wild sightings, so some days look different than others. When you go with that mindset, you’ll enjoy the ride for what it is—an active afternoon on Tenerife’s coast.

FAQ

How long is the Luxury Opera 60 whale and dolphin watching experience?

It’s about 3 hours (approx.). The exact experience timing can vary slightly based on conditions and the day’s schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Puerto Colón, Playa de las Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s included on board?

You get drinks and snacks, plus snorkeling equipment provided on board. There’s also food served during the day.

Is there time to swim and snorkel?

Yes. This is a two-in-one experience that includes a swimming and snorkeling stop at a bay.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes. The experience is offered in English.

How many people are on the boat?

The experience has a maximum of 15 travelers, so you should get more space than on larger group boats.

Does the tour require good weather?

Yes. The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes. Service animals are allowed on this experience.