Puerto de la Cruz: Submarine Trip and Beach Stop in Tenerife

Exploring Tenerife’s marine life from beneath the waves sounds like something out of a movie, but with the Submarine Safaris excursion, it’s a reality waiting for you. This 7-hour tour combines a thrilling underwater experience aboard a colorful submarine with relaxing beach time at Playa de las Américas, making it a great choice for families, couples, or anyone craving a mix of adventure and leisure.

What truly stands out about this trip is the unique opportunity to sit on the ocean bed and get an up-close look at the vibrant marine ecosystem, complemented by detailed audio-guides in 12 languages. While not the cheapest activity in Tenerife, many travelers find the value in the combination of marine discovery and free beach time, especially given the comprehensive guided commentary and comfortable vessel.

One thing to consider is that the pickup is only from Puerto de la Cruz and Las Caletillas, so if you’re staying elsewhere, you’ll need to plan transportation accordingly. This tour is perfect for those who want a stress-free, well-organized day with a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially for families with children over 2 years old who love the water and marine life.

Key Points

• Underwater Experience: Sit on the ocean bed and observe marine life through large panoramic windows.
• Educational Audio Guides: Available in 12 languages, offering insights into the Atlantic’s ecosystems.
• Marine Wildlife: Spot fish, octopuses, barracudas, parrot fish, and sting rays.
• Comfort & Capacity: Spacious vessel with 44 seats and 22 large windows ensures good views and comfort.
• Beach Time: After the sea adventure, enjoy two hours at Playa de las Américas for shopping, eating, or relaxing.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over age 2 and offers a fun, safe environment for all ages.

Discovering Tenerife’s Marine Secrets on the Yellow Submarine

Imagine gliding silently beneath the ocean’s surface aboard a bright yellow submarine, the “Sub Fun Cinco,” while windows reveal a bustling world of colorful fish and graceful rays. That’s exactly what this tour offers — a captivating glimpse into the Atlantic’s undersea life without getting your hair wet.

The tour departs from the exclusive Amarilla harbor at Tenerife’s southern tip, a location chosen for its calmer waters and scenic surroundings. Once aboard, you’ll descend to about 30 meters (roughly 100 feet), a depth that provides a fascinating perspective of the marine environment.

What makes this submarine trip memorable?

Firstly, the panoramic windows, numbering 22 in total, are the main draw. They allow for unobstructed views of the ocean floor — perfect for photography and just soaking in the vivid marine life. Several reviews mention the breathtaking sights, with one guest noting how they got close enough to fish and rays that “the fish practically swim past your window.”

Secondly, the audio guide system enhances the experience significantly. Available in 12 languages including English, Spanish, German, and French, it explains the different species you see and the importance of ocean conservation. One reviewer appreciated how the guides “gave a good explanation on how the sub works” and shared insights into the ecosystems. Headphones are provided free of charge, ensuring you won’t miss a beat during the tour.

How does the experience feel?

The vessel itself is described as “spacious and airy,” which helps prevent any claustrophobia. With a capacity of 44 seats, most groups are comfortably accommodated, and the entire dive lasts around an hour, giving plenty of time to marvel at the underwater world without feeling rushed.

What about the marine life?

Reviews consistently highlight the variety of species seen — from playful octopuses to schools of barracuda. One reviewer mentioned the sting rays as the “pride of the seas,” and noted how the boat’s divers sometimes coax the fish even closer to the windows, making for incredible photo opportunities.

Practical tips for the submarine part

• Arrive at the harbor a little early to navigate check-in procedures and settle in comfortably.
• The tour is suitable for children over 2 years old, but it’s worth considering whether your kids are comfortable in a confined space.
• The price is around $84 per person, which includes round-trip transport, the submarine ride, and the guide. Many find this a fair value considering the unique experience and the expert narration.

Following the Underwater Adventure: Relax at Playa de las Américas

After descending into the depths, the tour transitions smoothly into free time at Playa de las Américas, one of Tenerife’s most popular beaches. While the submarine trip is the main highlight, the two hours of free time allow you to unwind, grab some lunch, do a little shopping, or simply relax on the sun-drenched sands.

Many reviews note that the area offers a good mix of restaurants and shops, making it easy to grab a tapa or a cold drink after your marine adventure. The beach itself is noted for its beautiful sand and lively atmosphere.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

• Pick-up from 14 different locations in Puerto de la Cruz and Las Caletillas ensures convenience for most travelers.
• A 105-minute bus ride takes you from your hotel to Amarilla harbor, providing a comfortable start to the day.
• The one-hour guided submarine tour begins at the harbor, with the boat “Sub Fun Cinco” ready to take you down to the ocean floor.
• During the dive, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of marine life and sit on the seabed with divers nearby — a rare chance to observe this environment so closely.
• After the tour, a brief bus ride takes you to Playa de las Américas for a two-hour leisure break.
• Your return includes another bus ride back to your pick-up point, completing the full 7-hour experience.

What’s included and what’s not?

Included are round-trip transportation from selected hotels, an expert guide, and a dive certificate — a nice touch for those wanting a little extra recognition for their underwater adventure. Food and drinks, however, are not included, so packing a snack or planning a meal nearby is recommended.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the experience. One reviewer said, “The guides were really helpful and provided good explanations,” highlighting how much a good guide adds to the overall enjoyment. The stunning views and proximity to sea creatures make many feel they got excellent value, especially considering the cost.

Several mention that the audio guide system significantly enhances understanding, making the activity educational as well as fun. The spacious and comfortable vessel helps prevent discomfort, even for longer trips.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that combines adventure with education, this submarine trip is a solid choice. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a safe, guided experience that reveals Tenerife’s marine secrets without requiring scuba diving or snorkeling skills.

It’s also well-suited for travelers eager to tick off a bucket-list activity — sitting on the ocean bed to observe the marine life up close is pretty unforgettable. The beach stop afterward makes it perfect for those wanting a relaxed afternoon with options to shop or tan.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This submarine experience is best for families with children over 2, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see marine life from a safe, comfortable setting. The combination of an exciting underwater journey with leisure time at a lively beach makes it a well-rounded day out.

While it’s priced a bit higher than some other activities, the value lies in the unique perspective on marine ecosystems and the ease of an organized, guided tour. Whether you’re keen on photography, education, or simply want a fun adventure with family or friends, this trip offers a memorable slice of Tenerife’s underwater world.

If you love learning about ocean ecosystems, enjoy scenic coastal areas, and want a hassle-free activity, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can participate. The vessel is spacious and safe, but consider your child's comfort with confined spaces and the underwater environment.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The audio system offers guides in 12 languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian, providing detailed insights into marine life and ecosystems.

How long is the submarine ride?
The actual underwater part lasts approximately one hour, allowing plenty of time to view marine life through large panoramic windows.

What species might I see during the submarine tour?
Expect to see fish such as flute fish, parrot fish, barracuda, and octopus, as well as rays, which are often highlighted as the “pride of the seas.”

Where does the tour depart from?
Departures are from Amarilla harbor at the southern tip of Tenerife, with pickup options from multiple locations in Puerto de la Cruz and Las Caletillas.

What should I bring?
While the tour provides headphones and a dive certificate, packing a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat for the beach time afterward is advisable.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan to dine after the tour at Playa de las Américas.

This Tenerife submarine tour offers a fantastic blend of marine discovery and relaxed beach time, perfect for those wanting an unforgettable, family-friendly adventure. With friendly guides, stunning views, and an easy-to-join package, it’s a compelling way to see Tenerife’s underwater life without getting wet.