Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife

Reviewed · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife

★ 4.7 · 5 reviews 1 - 4 hours From $71 Operated by Tenerife-rentaboat.com · Bookable on GetYourGuide
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A coast cruise that feels like you’re driving the vacation. A license-free self-drive boat lets you explore Tenerife at your own pace, with the practical gear handled for you. You pick the route, you choose the calm spots to stop, and you get to keep the day relaxed instead of scheduled to someone else’s rhythm.

I especially like the freedom of sailing along the shoreline with a GPS that helps you move confidently, even if you’ve never driven a boat before. I also like the onboard comfort touches: a canopy for sun protection, plus a fridge if you brought extra drinks or snacks to keep cool.

One thing to consider: the “where do we go?” part still depends on you and your ability to follow the meeting instructions and handle the voucher smoothly. One review flagged a wrong pickup point and extra steps, and another mentioned a limited area to go—so give yourself a little buffer and double-check the exact meeting spot at Gate 3.

Key Things That Matter Before You Untie the Lines

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - Key Things That Matter Before You Untie the Lines

  • License-free self-drive means you’re not stuck with a set route or a tight schedule
  • Up to 6 people makes it a good value when you split the cost among friends or family
  • GPS + briefing helps you feel oriented fast, without needing boating experience
  • Anchor + snorkel masks are what turn a simple sail into an actual swim-and-chill day
  • Fridge, music, and soft drinks cover the comfort side, so you start relaxing right away
  • Meeting at Gate 3 is simple, but you’ll want to verify pickup details to avoid delays

Price and What You’re Really Paying For ($71 Per Person)

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - Price and What You’re Really Paying For ($71 Per Person)
At about $71 per person, this is one of those experiences where the value depends on how you group up. Since the boat is for up to 6 people, it tends to make more sense the more people you share it with. If you’re traveling as a couple, it can still work, but you’ll feel the cost more. If you’re a small group—two families or a tight group of friends—it starts to feel like paying for a day on the water with the important extras already included.

What’s included is the key. You’re not just renting a hull and hoping for the best. You get gasoline, a briefing, life jackets, snorkel gear, GPS, music, and soft drinks. You also have a fridge onboard if you want to bring your own food or extra drinks. In plain terms: you’re paying for a “ready-to-go” sea day, not a scavenger hunt.

Meeting at Gate 3: The Start Line for a Smooth Day

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - Meeting at Gate 3: The Start Line for a Smooth Day
Your day begins at Gate number 3. That’s wonderfully straightforward—until it isn’t. At least one review mentioned an incorrect pickup point, which caused a delay and extra steps, plus a separate mention of voucher issues where someone had to call for help.

Here’s how I’d handle that in real life if you want less stress:

  • Arrive a bit early so you can confirm you’re at the right spot.
  • Have your ID/passport ready (a copy is accepted) and be ready with the credit card they ask for.
  • Plan to manage the “last 50 meters” yourself—don’t assume the first person you see will have your exact answer.

If you connect with staff like Eric at the meeting point, that’s a name that came up as someone who made things smoother. Even if you don’t meet him, the takeaway is the same: the more calmly you handle the start, the more your boat day stays a boat day.

The Boat Setup: License-Free, Built for Easy Confidence

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - The Boat Setup: License-Free, Built for Easy Confidence
The headline is license-free self-drive, and that matters because it shifts the experience. Instead of paying for a captain and following their pace, you’re steering your own day. The boat is described as easy to maneuver, and that’s important if you’re not a “strong with boats” person.

You’ll also get practical safety support from the start. You have life jackets available, and you’ll get a briefing before you go. The included GPS is there for wayfinding, so you’re not doing the whole trip using vibes and guessing. If you’ve ever driven in a new city with traffic, you already know the feeling: a little guidance reduces stress fast.

Onboard comfort isn’t an afterthought either:

  • A canopy helps cut the sun.
  • Bluetooth audio lets you play music while you’re stopped or moving.
  • A fridge keeps your extra drinks cool.

That combination is what turns this from a “quick ride” into a comfortable few hours.

Your On-Water Day Plan: How It Usually Flows

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - Your On-Water Day Plan: How It Usually Flows
You can choose a duration between 1 and 4 hours (availability determines the specific start times). The great part is that the “plan” isn’t a rigid list of pre-chosen stops. It’s more like this: you go out, you find your pace, and you use the tools onboard when you want them.

Here’s a realistic rhythm you can expect:

1) Briefing, then you head out along the coast

This is when the GPS and the boat feel come together. You’re not just watching scenery—you’re learning how the boat responds so you feel in control.

2) Cruising with options

Tenerife’s coast gives you plenty to look at, but the real value is choosing where you want to slow down. With the included GPS, you can steer toward areas you’re curious about, then keep moving until something says stop.

3) Anchor time for calm water

The boat includes an anchor, which is what lets you pause in a tranquil spot rather than drifting. This is where you’re able to treat the day like an actual beach-and-sea break.

4) Snorkel when you’re ready

Snorkeling masks are included. When conditions are calm, it’s a quick way to feel like you’re exploring underwater without the commitment of a long activity. If you’ve never snorkeled before, start gently—short sessions first, and focus on breathing and staying relaxed.

5) Return with fuel handled

Fuel (gasoline) is included, so you’re not thinking about “running out” mid-day. When your time window ends, you head back and you’re done.

If you pick the longer end of the duration (closer to 4 hours), you get more “hover and choose” time. If you pick 1–2 hours, you still get the essentials, but you’ll likely prioritize one main swim/stop rather than doing multiple anchor moments.

What Makes Tenerife’s Coast Work So Well for This

This activity is designed around the coast, not a single destination. Tenerife’s shoreline is the star here, because it gives you variety—different-looking stretches of water, different angles of sunlight, and places where you may find calmer water to anchor.

The included anchor changes how you enjoy it. Instead of staying in motion the entire time, you can turn the boat into your base and treat it like floating downtime. That’s the secret sauce for value: you’re paying for control, gear, and comfort, not just transportation.

Also, the fridge + music combination matters more than people think. If you’re traveling with family or friends, having your own mini setup helps the mood. You can keep energy up with drinks and music without feeling like the day is one long waiting game.

Snorkel Gear and Safety: The Basics You Should Use

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - Snorkel Gear and Safety: The Basics You Should Use
You’re getting snorkel masks and life jackets included. That’s good because the “equipment friction” is removed. Still, use the gear like you mean it.

A few practical tips:

  • Put on the life jacket before you get too comfortable on deck. Make it a habit so you’re not rushing later.
  • Use the snorkel mask in short stretches. If visibility is limited or the water is not what you expect, don’t force it.
  • Keep the Bluetooth music at a volume where you can still hear instructions and the feel of the boat.

And if you’re with kids: the info says it’s not suitable for children under 2. That doesn’t automatically mean older kids won’t enjoy it, but you should use common sense about supervision and comfort around the water.

Who This Boat Day Fits Best (And Who Might Not)

This is made for groups that want flexibility. I think it works especially well if you’re:

  • Going with friends or family (up to 6 people)
  • Comfortable following a briefing and using a GPS
  • More interested in time on the water than in a museum-style checklist

It’s also a good match for people who want “do it your way” pacing. Some days you’ll want calm. Some days you’ll want to cruise. This setup supports both.

On the other hand, it’s not suitable for:

  • Pregnant women (listed)
  • People over 297 lbs / 135 kg (listed)
  • Children under 2 (listed)

That isn’t about judgment. It’s about safety and boat suitability. If any of those points affect you, look for an alternative tour format that better matches your needs.

Comfort Extras That Actually Change Your Experience

Some experiences include gear that you never use. Here, a few items are likely to matter during the day:

  • Fridge: If you’re bringing extra drinks or food, you can keep them cool instead of dealing with warm beverages on a sunny coast.
  • Music (Bluetooth): It turns anchoring into a real hangout. You get a “floating party” vibe without needing any extra supplies.
  • Soft drinks: It’s a small thing, but it sets the tone early so nobody has to ration.
  • Canopy: Sun is real on Tenerife. Shade helps you recover between swim moments.
  • Life jackets: Not glamorous, but crucial and included.

These are the kinds of details that make a short trip feel complete.

The Main Downsides to Plan Around

Puerto Colon: License-Free Self-Drive Boat in Tenerife - The Main Downsides to Plan Around
Let’s keep it honest. Two downsides popped up in the feedback you provided:

1) Pickup confusion and extra steps

One review said the wrong pickup point was given, leading to delays and steps. Another noted voucher handling problems that required calling. The lesson: confirm Gate 3 details and don’t show up relying on guesswork.

2) Limited area to go

One review said there was only a limited area to go. That doesn’t mean the whole thing is bad. It means your “freedom” has boundaries. In practice, you should expect freedom within the permitted zone, not an open-ended free-roam fantasy.

If you keep those in mind, you’ll judge the day more fairly—and you’ll enjoy it more.

Should You Book This License-Free Boat in Tenerife?

I’d book it if you want a relaxed sea day where you steer your own time. The mix of license-free, included GPS, and practical comfort (fridge, canopy, music) is a strong combo for people who don’t want their vacation locked to someone else’s itinerary.

I’d think twice if:

  • You hate logistics and want everything foolproof from the first minute
  • Your group expects unlimited roaming outside set zones
  • You or someone in your party is affected by the listed limitations (pregnancy, age under 2, or weight cap)

One more nudge before you decide: if you’re traveling with a group of 4–6, this starts to feel like a clever value. If you’re just two people, it can still be fun, but do the math against other Tenerife boat options you might consider.

FAQ

Do I need a boating license to drive the boat?

No. This is a license-free self-drive boat experience.

How many people can go on the boat?

The boat is for up to 6 people.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are gasoline, soft drinks, briefing, life jacket, fridge, music, GPS, snorkel gear, and the boat for 6 people.

Where do we meet?

The meeting point is Gate number 3.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel and a credit card, plus your passport or ID card. A copy is accepted.

Is alcohol allowed?

No. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

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