Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
A sunset boat trip in Tenerife is a trip of about 2 to 4 hours timed so that you are at sea during the sunset, usually from the south or west coast, with La Gomera on the horizon. It can be on a sailing boat, a catamaran or a private boat, and usually includes drinks and something to eat.
What sets it apart from other trips is the time of day, not the type of boat. This page helps you choose a format and understand how the timetable changes through the year.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Boat trip timed for the sunset |
| Formats | Shared sailing boat, catamaran, private boat |
| Duration | About 2–4 hours on the offers reviewed |
| Timing | Changes with the season: departure is adjusted to the sunset time |
| Usual ports | Puerto Colón, Los Cristianos, Las Galletas, Los Gigantes |
| Includes | Drinks and snacks on many offers; dinner on some |
| Group | From boats with a few seats to large catamarans |
| Price | Depends on the format, the duration and what is included |
Why the south and west
From the south-west coast of Tenerife, the sun sets over the sea, often with the silhouette of La Gomera in the background. That is why most sunset trips leave from Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Las Galletas or Los Gigantes.
Available formats
| Format | What sets it apart | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Shared sailing boat | Small groups, calm sailing | Couples or travellers looking for calm |
| Sunset catamaran | More space and stability; on some offers, a Canarian menu | Families or people who get seasick |
| Private boat at sunset | Your group only | Celebrations or a special occasion; see the private boat |
| Luxury yacht | Crew and service | See the luxury yacht charter |
| Party boat | Music and a party atmosphere | Groups looking for a party, not contemplation |
If sailing particularly appeals to you, see the sailing excursion.
What happens
- Meeting at the port in the mid or late afternoon.
- Sailing along the coast as the light fades.
- Swimming stop, on some offers, before it gets cool.
- Drinks and snacks or dinner on board.
- Sunset from the sea.
- Return to port in the last of the light or after dark.
How the timetable changes
The departure time depends on the sunset, which varies quite a lot in Tenerife through the year: earlier in winter and much later in summer. Operators adjust the departure so the boat is at sea at the key moment.
Always ask for the exact departure and return times for your date, especially if you have a dinner booked afterwards or depend on transport.
Who it suits
- Couples looking for a relaxed or romantic plan.
- Groups celebrating something.
- Families who want a boat trip without the midday heat.
- Travellers who want to combine the sea and sunset photography.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who wants to see cetaceans: it is possible at sunset, but if it is your priority, choose an authorised operator and a trip designed for it; see the whale and dolphin watching trip.
- Anyone prone to motion sickness: choose a large catamaran.
- Young children: you get back late and it gets cool at sea.
- Cloudy days: the sunset may not be visible. Ask about the change policy.
How to choose well
- What are the departure and return times for your date?
- What type of boat, and how many people on board?
- What is included? Drinks, snacks, dinner, swimming stop.
- Is it shared or private?
- Is there a chance of seeing cetaceans? If so, the boat must have Barco Azul and AROC authorisation.
- What happens if the sea or weather makes it impossible to go out?
- Is there transport from your accommodation?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Boat trip | Included | Type and capacity |
| Drinks | Common | Whether there is an alcohol-free option |
| Snacks or dinner | Common | Menu and dietary needs |
| Swimming stop | In some offers | If it interests you |
| Transport | In some offers | Area and time |
Safety and requirements
- Life jackets for everyone, children included.
- Alcohol and swimming: do not swim after drinking.
- Wet deck: wear non-slip shoes.
- Darkness: the return may be after dark; follow the crew’s instructions.
Weather
- Clouds on the horizon can hide the sunset even on a fine day.
- Afternoon wind: in some areas of the south it picks up in the afternoon and the sea may be rougher.
- Chill: once the sun goes down, it quickly gets cool at sea.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure: the formats are very different (shared sailing boat, catamaran with dinner, private boat).
The price depends on:
- The format: shared or private.
- The duration.
- What is included: drinks, snacks or dinner.
- The type of boat.
What to bring
- A jacket or jumper for the return.
- Swimwear and a towel if there is a swimming stop.
- Soft-soled shoes.
- A camera or a charged phone.
- Motion sickness remedy, if you need one.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| A boat just for your group | Private boat in Tenerife |
| Sailing | Sailing excursion |
| Daytime catamaran with a swim and a meal | Tastingmaran excursion |
| Sunset on Teide with stargazing | Teide sunset and stargazing |
Frequently asked questions
What time does the sunset boat leave?
It depends on the time of year, because it is adjusted to the sunset time. Ask for the exact time for your date.
How long does it last?
Between about 2 and 4 hours on the offers reviewed.
Can you see La Gomera?
From the south-west coast, often yes, if the day is clear.
Is dinner included?
Some offers include dinner or a Canarian menu; others, only drinks and snacks.
Can you see dolphins at sunset?
It is possible, but only on boats authorised for whale watching.
Is it cold?
It gets cool at sea once the sun goes down. Bring a jacket.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, on stable boats and bearing in mind the return time.