Sail and Hike the Canary Islands - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the Sail and Hike the Canary Islands tour?

  This tour allows you to relax on sun-drenched beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, try your hand at sailing, hike through the leafy laurisilva forests of Anaga, wander the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of Las Cañadas del Teide, and trek from Erjos down to Masca’s dramatic gorge.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will spend 6 nights aboard a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht in twin/double bed cabins with en suite or shared facilities, and 5 nights in hotels.

• How many meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts and 3 lunches.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers.

• What is the minimum age requirement for this trip?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 16 years.

• What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. You should be able to climb small steep ladders, walk over wooden planks when boarding/disembarking the vessel, carry your luggage, and be comfortable moving around the yacht while it is under sail in potentially challenging conditions.

• What modes of transportation will be used on this trip?

  The primary modes of transportation are a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht, private vehicles, and hiking.

• Are there options for solo travelers, and is there a single supplement fee?

  Solo travelers are welcome and are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the group trip, meaning there is no single supplement for shared rooms. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all hotel night stops, though single hotel rooms in Europe may be smaller.

• How much spending money should I anticipate for personal expenses and optional activities?

  It is recommended to allow $150-170USD (or equivalent) for taxi/bus/tour vehicle around the islands while exploring, and for the transport for optional activities specifically during the sailing segment. This does not cover all personal spending like drinks, shopping, or additional tipping.

• What is the policy and recommendation for tipping?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €3-€5 per day is recommended, and for your tour operator CEO, €30-€40 per person per week is a guideline.

• What are the important health considerations for this trip?

  People sensitive to seasickness should come prepared. There is no constant power source on board for Sleep Apnea/CPAP machines, so a suitable battery pack is required. It's advisable to consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information and inoculations. Bottled water is recommended in some remote islands, and heat waves are possible from June to October.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Your CEO will require evidence of your insurance.

• What are the visa and passport requirements for this trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements based on your nationality. Also, be aware that as of 2025, ETIAS travel authorization may be an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals in various European countries.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a G Adventures Skipper CEO for the sailing portion and a G Adventures CEO for the hiking portion, along with local guides where specific knowledge is beneficial.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• What should I know about water and electricity on the sailing yacht?

  Fresh water on board is very limited, and showers are restricted to one quick shower per person per day. Electrical outlets (European style, 2 pins, 240V) are only operational while in port, so an external battery pack for personal electronics is highly recommended.

• Is participation in cooking and cleaning required on the yacht?

  Yes, the sailing portion is a self-catering trip, and all travelers are expected to participate in cooking, cleaning up after themselves, and keeping the boat tidy for safety and hygiene.

• What are the bed sizes like in the yacht cabins?

  The beds in the yacht cabins are approximately 1.8 meters (6 feet) in length.

• What are some optional activities available during the tour?

  Optional activities include visiting Sitio Litre Gardens in Puerto de la Cruz (4.50 EUR), Bodegas Monje vineyard Wine Tasting in Sauzal (9 EUR), and a La Gomera Excursion (170-190 EUR). It's recommended to book popular activities in advance during high season.

• What rules apply regarding illegal drugs and sex workers on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and are against the law, putting the group at risk. Using the services of paid sex workers is also not acceptable. Your CEO has the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What should I do if I experience problems or delays when arriving for the tour?

  If you are unable to start your trip as scheduled, contact the Skipper CEO directly via the G Adventures App as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can use the emergency contact numbers provided for the Head Skipper or Operations team, sending a text or WhatsApp with your trip code details.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour offers relaxation on sun-drenched beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, the chance to try your hand at sailing or simply kick back on deck. You'll hike through the leafy laurisilva forests of Anaga, wander the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of Las Cañadas del Teide, and trek from the mountain village of Erjos down to Masca’s dramatic gorge.

• What is the accommodation like on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 6 nights aboard a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht in 5 twin/double bed cabins with en suite or shared facilities, and 5 nights in hotels. Twin cabins on the yacht have a double bed on the bottom bunk and a single bed on the top bunk, with a shared bathroom that may be shared with the Skipper CEO/Captain. Note that beds in the cabins are approximately 1.8 meters (6 feet) long.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour primarily uses a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht. Additionally, private vehicles are used for transfers and excursions on land, and hiking is a key mode of movement for exploring the islands.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. For specific details or any exceptions, it is recommended to speak with your booking agent.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of?

  It is important to note that there is no constant power source onboard the yacht, so Sleep Apnea/CPAP machines cannot be facilitated without a suitable battery pack. Consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any required inoculations. People sensitive to seasickness should come prepared. Also, heat waves are possible from June to October. You should disclose any condition that could affect your movement, balance, or awareness to the Skipper CEO/Captain for safety.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 participants.

• How much spending money should I budget for the trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler. However, it's recommended to allow approximately $150-170 USD (or equivalent) for taxi/bus/tour vehicle around the islands and transport for optional activities during the sailing segment. This budget also covers drinks, shopping, and tipping.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 16 years.

• What important notes should I be aware of regarding the sailing portion of the trip?

  Due to weather conditions, a short ferry ride to or from the boat in Tenerife might be necessary. Fresh water onboard is limited, so showers are restricted to one quick shower per person per day. Electrical outlets (European style with 2 pins, 240V) are only operational while in port, so an external battery pack for personal electronics is highly recommended. This is a self-catering trip, and all participants are expected to help with cleaning and maintaining the boat for safety and hygiene.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3. Participants should be able to climb small steep ladders, walk over a wooden plank (without a handrail) when boarding/disembarking the vessel, and be physically able to carry their luggage. You will frequently be climbing in and out of inflatable tenders, which can involve challenging conditions and beach landings. Moving around the yacht while under sail can also be challenging due to waves and heeling.

• Do I need an EU or International Driver's Licence?

  If you do not have an EU Driver's Licence, it is advisable to obtain an International Licence if you plan to rent a vehicle on the islands during your free time.

• What kind of leadership is provided during the tour?

  A Skipper CEO will lead the first half of your journey, taking complete charge of sailing, onboard safety, and providing sailing knowledge. A separate CEO will join for the remainder of the trip, offering information on destinations, activity suggestions, local dining recommendations, and a broad general knowledge of the Canary Islands. Local guides are also utilized for more specific regional insights.

• Are there single supplements for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, meaning there is no single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without providing evidence of medical coverage, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects is also strongly recommended.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes 5 breakfasts and 3 lunches.

• What is the currency used and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards, especially Visa, are widely accepted for cash advances. However, there's no guarantee your cards will work everywhere, so it's best to check with your bank. Be aware that a 5-10% fee may apply for credit card purchases. Do not rely solely on cards; a combination of Euros, traveler's cheques, and cards is recommended, and always bring more funds than you anticipate needing.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include visiting Sitio Litre Gardens in Puerto de la Cruz (approx. 4.50EUR per person), a Bodegas Monje vineyard Wine Tasting in Sauzal, El (approx. 9EUR per person), and a La Gomera Excursion (approx. 170-190EUR per person). During high season (May-October), it is highly recommended to book popular optional activities in advance.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €6-8 per day is a recommended guideline. At the end of the trip, if you feel your CEO/Skipper provided outstanding service, a tip of €30-€40 per person, per week, is a suggested guideline and is greatly appreciated.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes 6 nights aboard a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht with a fully licensed skipper, a guided Anaga Forest Hike and Chinamada Village visit, a hike between the village of Erjos and Masca, an Orotava Orientation Visit, and a Teide National Park Hike. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also covered.

• Where can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities can be found in some harbors; your skipper can provide guidance on the best locations. Hotels may also offer laundry services for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to nearby laundromats. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for handwashing.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs and sex workers?

  Illegal drugs are strictly not tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes local laws but also puts the entire group at risk. Similarly, the exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to the tour operator's philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found in possession of drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.

• What safety and security information should I know?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice before departure and using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. A lock is recommended for your luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities. While cities are generally safe during the day, stay in small groups and consider taxis at night. Avoid protests/demonstrations. Water-based activities should ideally be accompanied by a guide, and swimming/snorkeling are at your own risk. For more, visit gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/.

• What if I experience problems when arriving for the tour?

  If you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please contact the Skipper CEO directly via the tour operator app as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can reach out to the Head Skipper or the Sales team using the emergency contact numbers provided in your pre-departure information. Sending a text or WhatsApp with your trip code details is recommended.

• What about visas and entry requirements for this trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements for your nationality. As of 2025, various European countries are introducing ETIAS travel authorization as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals; please check how this may affect you.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page on gadventures.com/about-us/lgbtq-travel/ for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your adventure.