Snorkeling in Santa Maria: Sailing, Local Food & Marine Life

Sail out, snorkel in, taste what the island catches

A three-hour sailing activity in Santa Maria where you snorkel with equipment provided, watch for dolphins and turtles, and taste fresh local fish and tuna tartar. The boat holds a maximum of six people, and guides speak English, German and Polish. Bottled water, snacks, alcoholic beverages and use of snorkeling gear are included.

The experience

You board a sailboat with an experienced crew and spend three hours on the water seeing the island from angles the shore doesn't offer. The snorkeling happens in zones where underwater life is active: flying fish, dolphins, turtles and occasionally whales move through these waters. You get snorkeling equipment and can also try stand-up paddling if the conditions allow. The crew handles the sailing. You handle the snorkel and the moment you spot movement below the surface.

Between water time, the boat serves bottled water, coffee or tea, and snacks. The real draw is the tuna tartar (caught fresh and prepared by the crew), and other local products they bring aboard. Alcoholic beverages are available for guests over 18. The group stays small by design, capped at six people, so there's no crowding on deck or at the rail when something surfaces.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• stand-up paddle access.
• bottled water.
• coffee and tea.
• snacks.
• fresh tuna tartar and local food tastings.
• alcoholic beverages for guests over 18.

Before you book

Days and timesTuesday to Sunday

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (under 12)

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish, German and Polish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Back Loop Yacht

Is this one for you?If you're staying in Santa Maria without a car, the crew arranges pickup from your hotel, so the three-hour window fits a free afternoon without the logistics of getting to the dock yourself. Small groups of up to six mean you're not competing for space or the crew's attention when something worth seeing breaks the surface.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, German and Polish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (under 12).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What kind of marine life will I actually see while snorkeling off Santa Maria?

Flying fish, dolphins, turtles and occasionally whales inhabit these waters. The crew knows where to position the boat for the best chance of spotting them, and snorkeling lets you watch from below the surface as well as from the deck.

Is the snorkeling equipment included, or do I need to bring my own?

Snorkeling gear is included in the activity. You don't need to rent or bring equipment. It's ready when you board.

How do I get to the boat if I'm staying in Santa Maria without a rental car?

The crew can arrange pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Santa Maria. Public transportation options are also available nearby if you prefer to make your own way to the departure point.

Can I try stand-up paddling on the same day as snorkeling?

Yes, stand-up paddle equipment is available during the three-hour activity, so you can switch between snorkeling and paddling depending on conditions and your preference.

What's included in the price besides snorkeling gear?

Bottled water, snacks, coffee or tea, and the fresh tuna tartar and other local products the crew serves are all included. Alcoholic beverages are available for guests over 18.