Boat Excursion to visit underwater lava tongues

Exploring Tenerife’s Underwater Lava Tongues: An Honest Look at a Unique Marine Adventure

If you’re heading to Tenerife and love the idea of seeing the island’s volcanic origins from a different perspective, this boat excursion to the underwater lava tongues might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gone through the details, reviews, and all the info to paint a clear picture of what this experience offers.

What really stands out are the expert guides with over 30 years of water and underwater activity experience and the chance to see firsthand how Tenerife’s volcanoes shaped both land and sea. Plus, for just around $58, you get an immersive journey that combines education, adventure, and some seriously beautiful scenery.

That said, it’s worth mentioning a potential consideration: since the activity depends on good weather, it’s a bit of a gamble if your trip coincides with rough conditions. Still, most travelers find it well worth the effort, especially if you’re curious about geology or love marine environments. This tour is suited for those who enjoy a mix of nature, science, and a bit of adventure—whether you’re a family, a solo traveler, or part of a small group.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides with over 30 years of experience lead the tour, sharing fascinating insights into Tenerife’s volcanic origins.
• Unique underwater views: You’ll see lava formations in contact with the sea, offering a rare glimpse of the island’s creation story from beneath the water.
• Educational and scenic: It’s a mix of geology, biology, and stunning ocean vistas, perfect for those who love learning on the go.
• Small group intimacy: With a cap of just 10 travelers, expect a personalized experience and more room to ask questions or relax.
• Family-friendly: It’s suitable for most travelers, including those experiencing snorkelling for the first time, as per reviews.
• Price and duration: At around $58 for roughly two hours, it’s an accessible activity that packs a lot of value into a short timeframe.

What to Expect from the Tour

This guided boat trip begins in Las Galletas, a charming port on Tenerife’s southern coast. From here, the boat departs to explore the southeastern and southwestern coasts, focusing on the volcanic lava formations that meet the sea. The voyage lasts about two hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling experience without taking up your entire day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Las Galletas

Your adventure kicks off at the Marina Del Sur in Las Galletas. The departure point is conveniently close to public transportation, easing your planning. After setting out, you’ll cruise along the coast, heading toward lava tongues—these are the dramatic formations where volcanic lava cooled upon contact with ocean water.

Viewing Lava Tongues & Underwater Topography

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see the orography of Tenerife’s coast both above and below the water. Our guides, with their extensive experience, will explain how these formations came to be—offering a mini geology lesson as you watch the scenery unfold.

You’ll also observe the sea fauna that inhabits these lava formations, which adds another layer of interest. The guides are happy to answer questions, share stories, and point out details that you might miss on your own.

Photos & Videos

Throughout the excursion, the guides take pictures and videos. At the end, you’ll receive these as a souvenir—a thoughtful touch that helps you remember this special moment. It’s especially handy if you want to share your experience without worrying about capturing every detail yourself.

The Experience in Practice

Most reviews highlight how engaging and informative the guides are. One reviewer, Emma_B, mentioned that their host Paco was a fascinating, experienced diver who shared countless tips and stories, making the experience not just visual but also educational. She emphasized it as a highlight of her holiday, which speaks volumes about the tour’s quality.

The environment is beautiful, with stunning coastlines and intriguing lava formations. The small group size (max 10) ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd—you get more personalized attention and space to enjoy the scenery peacefully.

Suitability & Considerations

This tour is designed for a wide range of travelers. The fact that most travelers can participate indicates it’s accessible for many, including those new to snorkeling or boat trips. However, do keep in mind that the tour’s success depends on good weather, so it’s worth checking the forecast close to your date.

The Value of the Tour

At $58 per person, you’re paying for a compact yet rich experience. It’s hard to find similar excursions that combine geological insights, marine life observation, and scenic beauty in such a short window. When you consider the personal guidance, the photographs, and the chance to see Tenerife’s volcanic past firsthand, it feels like a fair deal.

Plus, the small group size enhances the experience—more chance to interact with the guides, ask questions, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for travelers who:

• Have a curiosity about volcanic geology and island formation
• Enjoy boat rides and scenic coastal views
• Want a guided, educational experience with expert commentary
• Appreciate a small, intimate group setting
• Are comfortable with marine environments for snorkeling or viewing underwater features
• Are flexible with weather-dependent activities

While it’s suitable for most, those with specific health concerns or severe seasickness might want to consider their comfort level, especially since the activity hinges on favorable sea conditions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on Tenerife and crave a combination of stunning scenery, educational insights, and marine adventure, this boat tour to the underwater lava tongues is a solid pick. It’s a chance to see the island’s geological story unfold beneath the waves, guided by experts who love sharing their knowledge.

The experience has been praised for its informative guides and breathtaking views, making it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary—especially if you’re into geology, marine environments, or just looking for something different from the usual beach day.

Even if you’re not a snorkeler or diver, the guided boat ride offers plenty to enjoy from the deck, with opportunities to learn, photograph, and simply take in the scenery. Just remember to check the weather forecast, arrive prepared for a short but engaging trip, and enjoy the journey into Tenerife’s volcanic heart.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s generally suitable for a range of ages. If your kids enjoy boats and marine scenery, they’ll likely find it fascinating.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it a good option if you’re short on time but still want a memorable experience.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Marina Del Sur in Las Galletas, close to public transportation.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided boat trip with explanations about Tenerife’s orography and volcanic activity, plus photos and videos taken during the excursion.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
The provided info doesn’t specify, but since snorkelling is mentioned as accessible for some, it’s advisable to bring your own mask and fins if you’re comfortable, or check with the provider beforehand.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, it’s limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in case your plans change.

How is the price justified?
Considering the guided aspect, expert commentary, scenic views, and photos included, it offers good value for a two-hour small-group adventure.

If you’re intrigued by volcanic landscapes, marine life, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be a highlight of your Tenerife trip. It’s a great way to connect with the island’s volcanic roots—and do so in a relaxed, friendly setting.