A submarine trip is the easiest way to see Tenerife underwater without getting wet. The excursion leaves from the southern coast near Costa Adeje, usually after a short boat ride out to the submarine itself, and descends to a depth of a few tens of metres, where passengers sit by large viewing windows and watch the sea life of the Atlantic go past. Depending on the day, that can mean shoals of sea bream and other fish, rays, octopus and the artificial reefs and wreck that were placed in the area to encourage marine life. The seabed here is volcanic, so the underwater scenery is as dramatic as the landscape above it. A commentary explains what you can see and the dive lasts long enough to spot a good amount, while the whole trip fits into half a morning or afternoon. It suits families with children and anyone who is curious about the ocean but unsure about snorkelling or diving, and it is also a good option for travellers who find the sea too rough for boat trips on rougher days. The tour we link to includes hotel pickup in the south of the island, which makes the trip simple to fit into a beach holiday.
How it works
You pick a departure, are collected at your hotel or at a meeting point in the south, and are taken to the harbour. After a briefing, you board a boat that carries you to the submarine, then climb down into the cabin and sit by a porthole. The vessel stays below for a period set by the operator before returning to the surface. Seating is arranged so that every passenger has a window, and the cabin is air-conditioned, so the depth and the temperature are comfortable for children and adults alike.
What to expect
The sea is not a zoo, so wildlife sightings depend on the day, the season and the visibility, but the operators choose areas where fish gather and where artificial structures attract them. A guide gives a commentary in several languages and helps you spot the animals. The experience is calm and gentle, and the descent is smooth.
Travellers who are claustrophobic should think carefully, as the cabin is enclosed, though the large windows and the open seating help. Weather and sea conditions can cause cancellations, in which case you are usually offered another date or a refund, so read the cancellation terms before you buy.
Making the most of it
Book early in your stay so that you can reschedule if the weather turns. Bring a camera, though reflections off the glass reduce photo quality, and a light layer, because the cabin is cool. The best time to see fish is generally calmer, clear days, which are common in the south for much of the year.
Combine the trip with a beach afternoon or a whale-watching cruise from Puerto Colón for a full day on the water, and tell the operator about any mobility needs when booking, since boarding involves steps and a short boat ride.
Good to know
The dive depth and the route are chosen for safety and visibility, and the crew are trained to deal with any problems, so the experience is regulated and well rehearsed. Passengers with serious heart or breathing conditions, or those who are heavily pregnant, should check the restrictions before booking.
Children are usually welcome from a minimum age, and small ones sit with an adult. If you want photos of the fish, ask the crew which side of the cabin gives the best view, and keep your camera close to the glass to cut reflections.
What to expect
The experience
A guided submarine dive with seating at large portholes, reached by a short boat transfer from the harbour.
Best time
A calm, clear day, which is common in the south for much of the year.
How long
Allow two to three hours including the transfer and briefing.
Tips
Book early in your stay in case the sea is too rough, bring a light layer and mention any mobility needs when booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and non-swimmers who want to see marine life without getting wet.
- Families
- A calm, seated experience that suits most children, though it is enclosed.
- Couples
- A different kind of date, followed by lunch at the harbour.
- Pair with
- A whale-watching trip from Puerto Colón or a beach afternoon in Costa Adeje.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How deep does the submarine go?+
It descends to a few tens of metres, deep enough to see the reef and sea life through the windows while staying in a comfortable, well-lit cabin.
Will I definitely see animals?+
Sightings depend on the day and the conditions. The operators go to areas where fish gather, and artificial structures on the seabed attract more.
Is it suitable for non-swimmers?+
Yes, you stay dry inside the submarine, and swimming skills are not required.
Is it claustrophobic?+
The cabin is enclosed, but it has large windows and seats everyone by a porthole. If you are nervous, discuss it with the operator beforehand.
What happens if the weather is bad?+
Trips can be cancelled in rough seas. You are usually offered another date or a refund, so check the cancellation terms when booking.
