Tenerife, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, invites enthusiasts to experience a world beneath the waves. Among the many marvels encountered on our boat tours are sharks, enigmatic and graceful inhabitants of the Atlantic that surrounds the island. In this post, we delve into fascinating shark facts specific to Tenerife and explain how our boat trips can bring you face-to-face with these incredible creatures.
Exploring the Variety of Sharks in Tenerife
Dispelling common myths, Tenerife’s waters host an assortment of shark species, many of which are entirely benign to humans. Below are a few of the most frequently observed types:
Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna mokarran)
The hammerhead stands out as one of the most recognizable species roaming the Atlantic near Tenerife. Although sightings are rare, these sharks occasionally make an appearance during the warmer summer months. Their distinctive T-shaped head makes them unmistakable, particularly in deeper oceanic zones.
Angel Shark (Squatina squatina)
Known for its flat and camouflaged appearance, the angel shark blends seamlessly with sandy ocean floors. As one of the more commonly encountered sharks around Tenerife—especially in safeguarded areas like the Teno Marine Reserve—this species poses no threat to humans, offering a captivating spectacle as it rests on the seabed.
Blue Shark (Prionace glauca)
Often spotted in the vast, open waters surrounding the island, the blue shark is noted for its streamlined form and vibrant blue hue. Boat tours venturing further offshore increase your chances of witnessing these elegant swimmers, who thrive in the deeper parts of the Atlantic.
Intriguing Shark Insights in Tenerife
Protected and Endemic Species
Many of the sharks gracing Tenerife’s waters are under legal protection, ensuring that fishing or habitat disruption is strictly prohibited. For instance, angel sharks are classified as vulnerable, and safeguarding them is crucial to maintaining the island’s rich marine ecosystem.
Sharks Pose Little Threat
Despite widespread misconceptions, most shark species near Tenerife are peaceful and pose minimal danger to humans. Typically, they dwell along the ocean floor or in the deeper parts of the sea, and are often more cautious of human presence than we are of them.
Boat Tour Sightings
The marine environments around Tenerife offer exceptional opportunities for shark observation, especially during boat excursions in less touristy areas and near natural reserves like Teno or the cliffs of Los Gigantes. Summer months, when ocean temperatures rise, are particularly favorable for spotting these elusive creatures.
How to Encounter Sharks on Our Boat Tours
For those eager to witness sharks in their natural habitat, Tenerife provides tailored boat trips that bring you close to marine life. Our catamaran excursions allow exploration along the island’s rugged coastlines, where sharks are known to swim freely. Choose from the following tour options:
3-Hour Catamaran Adventure
Embark on a three-hour journey along Tenerife’s southwest shoreline, a prime location for encountering sharks, turtles, and dolphins alike. The deeper offshore waters create ideal conditions for sightings of both blue and hammerhead sharks, promising an unforgettable maritime experience.
Intimate Sailing Expedition
For a more relaxed encounter, our sailing expedition navigates quieter waters, such as those within the Teno Marine Reserve. This intimate tour provides ample opportunities to observe angel sharks resting on sandy ocean floors, away from the usual tourist paths.
Why Opt for Tenerife Boat Tours?
Beyond the thrill of shark watching, our excursions allow you to admire the stunning coastal landscapes, unwind on board a comfortable catamaran, and snorkel in the pristine, clear waters. With a knowledgeable guide on board providing insights into the local marine fauna, every moment of your trip is designed to be both educational and exhilarating.
Book your Tenerife boat tour now and step into the mysterious underwater world where sharks roam freely!
If you’re interested in reserving one of these excursions, click here for shark tours, or click here for additional boat adventures.
