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Enjoy a 4-hour boat tour off La Palma with small groups, stunning coastline views, snorkeling, a tapas lunch, and a nostalgic vessel with rich character.

The La Palma: 4 Stunden Bussard Classic Tour offers an engaging 4-hour journey along the island’s scenic Atlantic coast. Priced at $88 per person, this tour departs from Tazacorte, on the west coast of La Palma, and is operated by Ocean Explorer La Palma. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 89 reviews, it clearly appeals to those seeking a relaxed, authentic maritime adventure in small groups.
What makes this tour particularly inviting is its focus on intimate experiences. With a maximum of 12 guests per trip, everyone gets personalized attention from the crew. The nostalgic vessel Bussard, well-restored and full of maritime charm, sets a warm, welcoming tone that enhances the laid-back atmosphere. Expect breathtaking views, refreshing swims, delicious tapas, and plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, making it ideal for travelers who value both comfort and discovery.
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This Bussard Classico tour takes you along La Palma’s imposing Atlantic coastline, where you can admire dramatic felsenformationen (rock formations) and explore hidden coves. The boat departs from OceanExplorer Tazacorte, with guests asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start for a smooth boarding process.
The vessel, an lovingly restored 1970s cutter, provides a nostalgic maritime setting, with narzisstischer Charme (nostalgic charm) and maritimer Atmosphäre (nautical atmosphere). This setting enhances the sense of adventure, making each moment on board feel special. The relaxed pace and small group size mean that conversations with the crew are easy, and you get plenty of time to soak in the views or chat with fellow travelers.

One of the tour’s great attractions is the free snorkel equipment, including maske & schnorchel (mask & snorkel), available to all guests. The tour includes a swim stop at a private, pristine spot suitable for cooling off and exploring the underwater life.
Weather and sea conditions are considered before the bade-stopp (swim stop) is confirmed, usually occurring north of Playa de La Veta. Guests should bring swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen for comfort. The natural beauty of La Palma’s coastline, with its impressive felsformationen (rock formations) and versteckte Buchten (hidden coves), makes snorkeling a highlight, especially for nature lovers.

The boat offers plenty of deck space to relax and enjoy the glorious Spanish sunshine. Lounge chairs and shaded areas allow guests to unwind while taking in the scenic views. The badestopp (swim stop) also offers a wasser dusche (water shower) onboard to rinse off after swimming, keeping guests comfortable throughout the journey.
The raucherbereich (smoking area) is located on deck, allowing smokers to enjoy their break without disrupting the tranquil environment. The relaxed pace and small group environment make this a peaceful outing, ideal for those wanting to escape busy tourist spots and enjoy a more personal connection with the sea.
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A memorable aspect of this tour is the delicious tapas lunch served on deck. The platter features frisches Brot (fresh bread), Oliven (olives), Manchego-Käse (Manchego cheese), eingelegte Paprika (pickled peppers), and zarte BBQ Hähnchenstreifen (tender BBQ chicken strips). The kanarische Papas arrugadas (Canarian wrinkled potatoes) come with hausgemachter Alioli (homemade garlic mayonnaise) and Mojo Rojo (spicy red mojo sauce).
Dessert is provided in the form of Karamellflan, offering a sweet finish to the meal. The food receives high praise in reviews, with many noting it is more than expected and freshly prepared. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if ordered in advance, ensuring dietary needs are respected.

The professional guide on board is well-versed in the history, geography, and wildlife of La Palma. The guides, speaking both English and Spanish, are lauded for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly demeanor. They lead guests through the scenery, pointing out volcanoes, coastal features, and marine life, including sightings of dolphins.
Guests consistently mention the guides’ attention to detail and ability to share interesting facts without overwhelming, making the trip engaging without feeling rushed. The live commentary enriches the experience, especially when spotting wildlife or passing notable landmarks.

The tour passes by the Lava Vulkan Delta of the 2021 eruption, providing a rare view of recent geological activity. The Porís de Candelaria, a picturesque cove, offers great photo opportunities and adds a scenic highlight to the trip.
The visit to Playa de La Veta is a key stop, providing a chance to enjoy the coastline’s natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. The boat’s route along the coast emphasizes the island’s volcanic landscape, showcasing imposing cliffs and hidden beaches that are otherwise difficult to access.

The meeting point for the tour is at OceanExplorer Tazacorte, located at the Port of Tazacorte. Guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding. Currently, there are no transfer options provided, so guests need to arrange their own transportation to the port.
The vessel is wheelchair accessible, making this tour suitable for travelers with mobility needs. Guests should bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen to maximize comfort during the trip.

While the Whale Watching Experience and Stargazing Tours offer different types of adventures, the Bussard Classic Tour stands out for its intimate group size and excellent food. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for those who want a laid-back, scenic excursion with a touch of culinary enjoyment.
The price of $88 offers good value considering the snorkeling, lunch, and guided commentary included. Without transportation included, this tour is best suited for travelers already on La Palma or those who can arrange their own transfer.
The La Palma Bussard Classic Tour delivers a personalized and scenic experience of the island’s west coast. Its combination of stunning views, marine life, delicious tapas, and friendly guides makes it a popular choice, especially for small groups who prefer a more relaxed vibe.
The 4-hour duration strikes a good balance, offering enough time to explore, swim, and dine without feeling rushed. While the tour may not include transfers, its focus on authenticity and comfort compensates with a highly positive experience.
Travelers seeking a combination of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and delicious food will likely find this tour a worthwhile addition to their La Palma itinerary.
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $88 per person.
How long does the tour last?
It has a duration of 4 hours.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from OceanExplorer Tazacorte at the Port of Tazacorte.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkel gear (mask & snorkel) is included and free to use.
Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be arranged upon pre-order.
Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the vessel is wheelchair accessible.
What should I bring?
Guests should bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen.
Are there any transfer services?
Currently, no transfer options are provided for this tour.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 guests for a more personal experience.
What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect coastal views, snorkeling, a tapas lunch, and wildlife sightings like dolphins, along with passing by the volcanic delta.