REVIEW · TENERIFE
Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Brunch and Unlimited Drinks
Book on Viator →Operated by Five Star Boat · Bookable on Viator
A catamaran brunch with whale-spotting odds sounds too good to be true. It’s not just a boat ride: you get a 5-star style catamaran, live commentary on the marine world, and a Canarian-inspired brunch while you glide past Las Galletas, Punta Rasca Lighthouse, Diego Hernández Beach, and the Los Cristianos cliffs. My favorite part is how the crew seems to run a smooth, welcoming day at sea, and how the unlimited drinks help you relax instead of time your snacks. The main thing to weigh is that brunch service timing and food warmth can vary with sea conditions and wildlife activity, so you’ll want to go with a sea-day mindset, not a strict dining schedule.
If you care about comfort, you’ll likely like the onboard lounging setup with Balinese-style beds, plus the chance to cool off with a dip in the ocean after brunch. And with a cap of 66 travelers, this feels like a “group outing” rather than a cattle-car experience. Still, if you dislike crowds or you’re picky about food, read up on the differences between standard seating and any VIP bed option before you commit.
In This Review
- Quick Hit Key Points
- From Marina del Sur to the Open Water: How the 3 Hours Work
- Stepping Into a “5-Star Style” Catamaran Cabin Setup
- My practical advice for comfort
- Brunch on a Sea Day: What You’re Getting (and What to Expect)
- Unlimited Drinks: Beer, Soft Drinks, and Water Without Overthinking It
- One thing to confirm if you’re considering upgrades
- The Coastal Cruise Route: Las Galletas to Los Cristianos
- Why I like the commentary format
- Wildlife Spotting Isn’t Guaranteed, but It Can Be Brilliant
- Swimming After Brunch: Refresh, Then Go Easy
- VIP Beds and the Real-World Tradeoffs
- Service and Organization: Where This Trip Gets Good Reviews
- Price and Value Check: Is $72.59 a Fair Deal?
- Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Might Skip)
- Final Call: Should You Book This Tenerife Catamaran Brunch Cruise?
- FAQ
- How long is the cruise?
- What’s included with the brunch cruise?
- Where does the tour start?
- Is pickup available?
- Can I swim during the trip?
- Is whale or dolphin viewing guaranteed?
- What weather conditions are required?
- Is there a cancellation refund window?
Quick Hit Key Points
- Balinese-style lounging on board, with a relaxed pace and space to spread out
- Unlimited beer, soft drinks, and water after brunch service kicks off
- Live commentary focused on islands and marine life, not just generic facts
- Coastline route highlights: Las Galletas, Punta Rasca Lighthouse, Diego Hernández Beach, Los Cristianos cliffs
- Whale and dolphin sightings are possible, but they depend on where the animals are that day
- Brunch is Canarian-inspired and sea-friendly, but warmth and timing can be affected by conditions
From Marina del Sur to the Open Water: How the 3 Hours Work

You start at the Five Star Boat Trip Catamaran in Marina del Sur, at Pantalán 3, in Las Galletas (Santa Cruz de Tenerife). The cruise runs about 3 hours, which is long enough to feel like a real break, but short enough that you’re not locked into a whole day with travel fatigue.
Pickup is offered, and the rule is pretty clear: you should be at the designated pickup point about 10 minutes early. Drivers won’t wait more than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time, so treat that like a real appointment.
The group size matters here. With a maximum of 66 travelers, you’re not dealing with a tiny private yacht, but you also shouldn’t feel like you’re stuck shoulder-to-shoulder the entire time. I like that this kind of cap usually keeps the crew’s attention more practical, especially when it comes to helping you find seats and settle in.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tenerife.
Stepping Into a “5-Star Style” Catamaran Cabin Setup
This is the part that tends to sell people fast: the catamaran itself. Reviews point out that the boat feels clean and luxurious, with a comfortable onboard vibe that makes the short timeframe feel worthwhile.
One of the standout comfort details is the use of Balinese beds for relaxing. If you like sun time, shaded time, and the freedom to change positions without feeling cramped, this setup is a big plus. Just be aware that one review flagged that it can get slippery onboard, which makes sense on a boat with waves and water splashes.
My practical advice for comfort
- Bring shoes you trust on wet surfaces, especially if you plan to move around after a swim
- If you’re sensitive to slips, take it slow around the bed areas and steps
- If you want the best sun view, think about where you want to sit early, not after everyone’s already settled
Brunch on a Sea Day: What You’re Getting (and What to Expect)

Brunch is a key part of the experience, and it’s described as inspired by local culture with local, 100% Canarian foods. The idea is simple: eat something that fits a boat day, then get back to the sea breeze and water views.
Here’s the part to manage carefully: some feedback noted that food wasn’t as advertised or that it arrived cold, with one guest saying they waited a long time to be fed. The operator’s response also clarifies the reason behind timing variability: navigation conditions and wildlife activity can affect when service happens, and safety comes first.
So how should you interpret that? Think of this as light brunch designed for comfort at sea, not a sit-down restaurant meal with guaranteed warm timing. If you’re the type who gets cranky when food service slips, plan to stay flexible. If you’re happy with a sea-day snack-and-sip format, you’ll probably enjoy it more.
Unlimited Drinks: Beer, Soft Drinks, and Water Without Overthinking It

Once brunch is underway, drinks are unlimited: beer, soft drinks, and water. That’s a real value lever here, because it turns the trip into a “pay once, relax” experience rather than constantly checking what you’re spending.
One review specifically praised that the free beer flowed when requested, which fits the overall theme of a crew that tries to keep things easy. If you’re the kind of person who wants a drink with the views, this is the kind of setup that keeps the mood good.
One thing to confirm if you’re considering upgrades
VIP options and bed upgrades show up in reviews, including a mention of an extra charge for a bed that included a towel and one drink. The exact details of what’s included can vary by ticket type and availability, so if you care about the extra-cost perks, confirm what comes with your specific booking.
The Coastal Cruise Route: Las Galletas to Los Cristianos

The cruise route is built around Tenerife’s shoreline from the water, and you’ll pass several named points that help you feel oriented while the boat moves.
You’ll see:
- Las Galletas, a lively coastal area that’s easy to recognize from the water
- Punta Rasca Lighthouse, a classic navigation landmark with strong photo potential
- Diego Hernández Beach, another visible coastline stop
- Los Cristianos Cliff, which gives you that dramatic cliffline feeling from the sea
What makes this route work isn’t just the list. It’s that you’re not forced into a rushed schedule. The live commentary about the islands and marine life gives you something to listen to while you watch the coast slide by.
Why I like the commentary format
Boats can feel boring if the talk is generic. Here, the commentary is specifically tied to the islands and marine life, so it connects your views to what you might spot. It also helps pass the time while you’re waiting for the day’s wildlife decisions.
Wildlife Spotting Isn’t Guaranteed, but It Can Be Brilliant

The trip is positioned as a whale- and dolphin-watching experience, and the operator’s approach is based on where marine life is located. In other words: if the animals are out, the boat works to observe them. If they aren’t, you still cruise and enjoy the day.
That’s why expectations matter. One guest said they didn’t see whales or dolphins and still enjoyed the afternoon, which makes sense because the value isn’t only in the sightings. On the other hand, multiple top reviews talk about seeing whales and dolphins, including reports of them coming close to the boat.
So the best way to plan mentally is this: aim for a wildlife moment, but count on a great sea day even if it doesn’t happen. That mindset makes the experience more consistently enjoyable.
Also, speed and route can change based on sea conditions and animal location, so your timeline may not feel identical to someone else’s day. That’s not a flaw—it’s how wildlife viewing works when the ocean is in charge.
Swimming After Brunch: Refresh, Then Go Easy

After brunch, you can take a dip in the ocean or relax onboard. This is one of the reasons the trip works so well in Tenerife’s typical sun-and-salt weather: you’re not stuck just looking at the water.
Just remember that water time affects the rest of your comfort. If the deck can get slick, move carefully after you’ve swum. Bring your confidence, not your bravery.
A couple of reviews mention that there’s enough time to swim, which is important. If swimming is a must-do for you, this timing is likely one of the deciding factors.
VIP Beds and the Real-World Tradeoffs

VIP shows up in reviews in a way that’s worth calling out because it affects how you experience the “luxury” part.
What people liked about VIP:
- It felt more royal, with service and attention that made guests feel special
- Some said the VIP experience felt worth the money
What to consider:
- One review said VIP beds didn’t have a sunroof in some cases, and that the setup might be worse than sitting in the middle
- Another mentioned strict separation between normal and VIP areas, plus questions about whether the VIP difference was meaningful
- There’s also a mention of an extra payment for a bed (with towel and one drink), which suggests seat options can cost more depending on what you want
My take for you: if you’re someone who wants the best comfort and doesn’t mind paying more to reduce uncertainty, VIP could be a good match. If you’d rather stay flexible and you’re fine with standard seating (and getting your sun the old-fashioned way), you may not need it.
Service and Organization: Where This Trip Gets Good Reviews

The crew is a repeated bright spot. Multiple reviews highlight polite, accommodating staff and a generally welcoming atmosphere. That’s not a small detail on a boat—good crew help you settle fast, find your spot, and enjoy the day instead of constantly asking questions.
Also, organization gets praised: reviews mention pickup working smoothly and the whole trip staying on track. That matters because on a timed 3-hour cruise, delays can cut into the fun fast.
There’s also a theme of respect for the experience’s purpose. The operator response emphasizes safety and comfort, and a focus on responsible observation when cetaceans are found. That’s the kind of approach that helps you feel like the trip is about the sea, not just ticking a checklist.
Price and Value Check: Is $72.59 a Fair Deal?
$72.59 per person sounds like a lot until you break down what you’re actually buying.
You get:
- A 3-hour catamaran cruise on Tenerife’s coast
- Brunch with 100% Canarian foods
- Unlimited beer, soft drinks, and water
- Live commentary on islands and marine life
- Chances to see whales and dolphins
- A trip capped at 66 travelers
- English is offered
For many people, that combo is the value. You’re paying for a packaged sea day that includes food and drinks, not just transport. And unlimited drinks can quietly turn the cost into something that feels more reasonable in hindsight.
The catch is that food expectations should be realistic. Some reviews mention basic food, cold food, or mismatch with advertising. That doesn’t erase the value, but it does mean you shouldn’t treat brunch as the highlight. The highlight is the boat, the coast views, the sea time, and the wildlife odds.
Then there are optional costs. Bed upgrades and VIP experiences exist in the review chatter, including a mention of paying extra for a bed. If you want top comfort, plan for the possibility of added charges depending on how you book.
Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Might Skip)
This trip fits you if you want:
- A comfortable catamaran day without planning details yourself
- A short, high-feel outing (3 hours)
- A mix of coastal views, marine commentary, and swim time
- Food and drinks included in the price
It might not fit you as well if:
- You want guaranteed whale or dolphin sightings (no boat can promise that)
- You’re picky about warm brunch timing and strict service schedules
- You hate crowding and want the lowest number of people possible
- You’re very sensitive to slippery decks or lots of movement onboard
One more clue from reviews: the experience is sometimes described as having a separation between normal and VIP areas. If you care a lot about where you sit and how crowded the boarding feels, it’s smart to think about your preferences before choosing your ticket type.
Final Call: Should You Book This Tenerife Catamaran Brunch Cruise?
If you want a relaxing, comfort-first sea day in Tenerife with local brunch and unlimited drinks, this is an easy recommendation. The strongest reasons to book are the onboard catamaran vibe, the crew’s service, the included drinks, and the fact that the route plus live commentary gives you plenty to enjoy even when wildlife sightings are hit-or-miss.
But book with the right expectations. Treat brunch as a sea-friendly meal, not a perfect restaurant experience every time. If you’re the type who needs guaranteed warm food on schedule, you might feel disappointed. If you’re more about views, sun, calm time, and the ocean’s surprises, you’ll likely have a great day.
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts about 3 hours.
What’s included with the brunch cruise?
You’ll have a brunch onboard, plus unlimited beer, soft drinks, and water. There’s also live commentary during the cruise.
Where does the tour start?
It starts at Five Star Boat Trip Catamaran, Marina del Sur, Pantalán 3, 38631 Las Galletas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. It ends back at the same meeting point.
Is pickup available?
Pickup is offered. You should be at the designated pickup point 10 minutes before pickup time, and the driver won’t wait more than 5 minutes after the scheduled time.
Can I swim during the trip?
Yes. After brunch, you can take a dip in the ocean or relax onboard.
Is whale or dolphin viewing guaranteed?
No. The cruise is designed for whale and dolphin watching, but marine life sightings depend on where animals are and the day’s sea conditions.
What weather conditions are required?
The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is there a cancellation refund window?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. After that, refunds aren’t available.







