Boat Excursion to visit underwater lava tongues

Discovering Tenerife’s Underwater Lava Tongues: An Authentic Marine Adventure

Imagine gliding quietly on the waters off Tenerife, surrounded by the stunning volcanic coastline and the chance to see hidden underwater lava formations. For about two hours and at a reasonable $58.11 per person, this guided boat excursion offers a fascinating view of how Tenerife’s volcanic landscape continues beneath the sea. Led by very experienced guides, including biologists and geologists with over 30 years of water activity knowledge, this tour combines education with adventure.

Two aspects really caught our attention: first, how vividly the guides explained the formation of the island both above and below water, turning what could be just a boat ride into a mini geology lesson. Second, the opportunity to see marine fauna thriving in these unique lava tongues makes this more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an immersive natural experience. However, the length and group size (a small group of no more than 10 travelers) mean you get personalized attention, which is a big plus.

On the downside, this tour relies on good weather conditions, so if the weather turns stormy or rough, it could be canceled or rescheduled. Also, while the tour is suitable for most, snorkelers or those less comfortable on boats should consider their comfort level beforehand.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Tenerife from a fresh perspective. Family groups, curious travelers, and those who appreciate guided insights will find a lot to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic underwater lava views close to the island’s coast.
• Expert guides with decades of experience sharing rich stories and insights.
• Personalized small group setting enhances safety and engagement.
• Educational focus on Tenerife’s volcanic origins, both above and below water.
• Family-friendly activity suitable for most ages and experience levels.
• Weather-dependent; best when conditions are calm and clear.

A Deep Dive into the Tenerife Underwater Lava Tongues Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Tenerife’s volcanic landscape, this boat trip offers a compelling blend of nature, geology, and marine life. Starting from the Marina Del Sur in Las Galletas, the tour takes you on a roughly two-hour journey across the southeastern and southwestern coasts, areas dotted with lava formations that have interacted with the sea over millennia.

The Itinerary: From Land to Underwater

The adventure kicks off with a boat departure from Las Galletas, a charming coastal town known for its lively port and crystal-clear waters. As you depart, your guides—most notably, Paco, an experienced diver—begin their narration with insightful explanations about Tenerife’s orography. They describe how volcanic activity shaped the island’s surface and, critically, how lava has flowed into the sea, creating impressive lava tongues and submarine formations.

The first stops are at several lava tongues, where the boat anchors or slows to allow passengers to observe the orography of the seafloor. Here, you’ll get a good look at the shape and size of these volcanic features, which are often surprisingly dramatic, rising from the seabed like ghostly sculptures. The fauna thriving in these environments, from colorful fish to marine invertebrates, add further appeal.

What You Can Expect During the Experience

Throughout the tour, the guides take pictures and videos of the formations and marine life, which they provide at the end as a complimentary gift—a thoughtful touch that helps you remember the trip. Expect the guides to be knowledgeable and engaging, sharing stories and tips that make the geology come alive. One reviewer, Emma, called Paco “a fascinating, experienced diver,” who added value beyond just pointing out sights.

As the boat navigates around lava formations, you’ll be offered opportunities to observe the seafloor’s diverse textures—from jagged volcanic rock to smoother areas where lava cooled rapidly. These features tell stories of the volcanic activity that continues to shape Tenerife’s landscape today.

Marine Life and Underwater Views

While most of the tour focuses on the geology, the marine environment itself offers surprises. The lava tongues serve as habitats for various fish species and other marine creatures. Many travelers find that these underwater structures create a vibrant, almost alien-like ecosystem, making snorkel or scuba opportunities more appealing if you’re interested in seeing marine fauna up close.

The Guides and Their Expertise

The guides’ expertise is a standout feature. Their combined biologist and geologist backgrounds mean you won’t just see pretty rocks—you’ll understand how they formed, how they interact with marine life, and why they’re important. This educational component transforms the tour from a mere sightseeing trip into a meaningful learning experience.

Practical Details: Price, Group Size, and Booking

At $58.11 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the small group size—a maximum of 10 travelers. This smaller group setting ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized attention.

Most travelers book about 79 days in advance, indicating that while it’s popular, it’s not overly crowded or oversubscribed. The tour includes a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward, and the confirmation is immediate upon booking.

Considerations for Travelers

One important factor to keep in mind is weather dependency. Since the tour takes place on open water, calm and clear conditions are essential for safety and enjoyment. Poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the tour provider offers full refunds or alternative dates.

If you’re sensitive to motion sickness or uncomfortable on boats, it’s worth considering, though the short duration (about two hours) is generally manageable. Families with children or those new to snorkeling will find the tour accommodating, especially with guides providing tips for those less experienced.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you’re fascinated by volcanic landscapes and marine environments. It suits those who enjoy guided educational experiences and are eager to see Tenerife’s geological history up close. Families with older children, curious travelers, and anyone with an interest in natural history will find it especially rewarding.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer small-group tours for a more personalized, less rushed experience. If you’re looking for a calm, educational adventure that combines scenic beauty with scientific insight, this trip hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just over two hours and a modest price, this boat trip offers remarkable views of underwater lava formations and insightful commentary from seasoned guides. You get a chance to see Tenerife’s volcanic origins from a unique vantage point, which few other experiences can match.

The small group size and guided narration make it feel intimate and engaging, perfect for those who want more than just a quick boat ride. The opportunity to capture photos and videos adds a lasting memory. Plus, if you’re interested in marine ecosystems and geology, this tour provides both in a compact, manageable package.

However, remember that weather conditions influence the experience—so plan for a clear, calm day to get the best out of your trip. It’s best suited for adventurous families, curious adults, and anyone eager to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic soul.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity without feeling rushed.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from Marina Del Sur in Las Galletas, a convenient spot with nearby public transportation options.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group setting makes it family-friendly. However, consider your child’s comfort with boats and water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. The guides provide photos and videos, but you might want to bring your own camera too.

Can I book this last-minute?
It’s recommended to book well in advance (about 79 days ahead on average), especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is snorkeling included?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention snorkeling, but the marine environment and lava formations are visible from the boat.

How experienced are the guides?
The guides have over 30 years of experience in water and underwater activities, ensuring safety and expert knowledge.

Are photos taken during the tour?
Yes, pictures and videos are captured throughout and given to participants as a gift at the end.

What if I want to see marine life more closely?
While the tour focuses on geological features, snorkeling or diving options might be available separately, or you can explore other marine tours on the island.

Embark on this fascinating voyage to observe the hidden volcanic secrets beneath Tenerife’s waters. Whether you’re a geology buff, a family seeking adventure, or simply someone eager to see a different side of the island, this boat excursion offers a memorable peek into Tenerife’s fiery origins—above and below the waves.