Experience Snorkelling in Puerto Del Carmen, Lanzarote

Exploring the underwater world around Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote through a guided snorkelling experience proves to be a rewarding adventure. Priced at just over $40 per person, this 1.5-hour tour offers an accessible way for beginners and seasoned snorkellers alike to enjoy the local marine life. The tour, operated by Manta Diving Lanzarote, is praised for its friendly guides, clear instructions, and stunning marine habitat, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a quick yet memorable taste of Lanzarote’s coastal waters.

What I especially appreciate about this experience are two key aspects. First, the expert guidance from knowledgeable instructors like Sam and Víctor, who are not only attentive but also good at explaining how to use the snorkelling gear comfortably. Second, the beauty of Playa Chica’s waters—crystal-clear, calm, and teeming with colorful fish—creates an ideal setting for first-timers and curious snorkellers. That said, a consideration for future participants might be that the tour only runs in good weather, so it’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

Key Points:
– Accessible for beginners: All gear included, no prior experience needed.
– Well-organized and friendly guides: Instructors like Sam and Víctor help you feel at ease and enhance your enjoyment.
– Vivid marine life: Expect to see shoals of bream, ornate wrasse, and damsel fish, with photos to remember the experience.
– Great location: Playa Chica is known for its calm, clear waters and abundant fish.
– Cost-effective: At about $40, it offers good value considering the equipment, guidance, and the underwater beauty.
– Weather-dependent: Tour relies on good weather; cancellations may occur in poor conditions.

A Detailed Look at the Lanzarote Snorkelling Experience

When I first heard about this snorkelling tour, what caught my attention was its reputation for being friendly to beginners. The tour starts at the Manta Diving Lanzarote shop located on C. Tenerife in Puerto del Carmen, a convenient spot that’s near public transportation. From here, it’s just a short walk to Playa Chica, the designated snorkelling site famed for its tranquil waters and lively marine life.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Once you arrive, the guides, including the enthusiastic Sam or Víctor—both highly praised in reviews—first give a comprehensive briefing. This covers safety tips like how to breathe through the snorkel, clear the mask if water enters, and move comfortably with fins. Since all gear, including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins, are provided, there’s no need to worry about bringing your own equipment unless you want to.

After donning their gear, most participants first practice in shallow water. This is a smart move, especially for those new to snorkelling, as it helps build confidence before venturing into the deeper waters. The guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before heading out for a 30 to 45-minute guided tour.

During the tour, you’ll glide just off Playa Chica’s bay, a location renowned for its gentle currents and visibility. The marine life here is vibrant; expect to see shoals of bream, colorful ornate wrasse, canarian and Atlantic damsel fish, as well as parrot fish. Several reviews highlight the excellent guidance in identifying different species, with many mentioning that the guides are “brilliant” and “super attentive” to needs and safety.

The Marine Environment & What You Can See

The aquatic environment is rich with diverse fish species and lively formations. Tour participants often mention how “the fauna is very diverse,” making the experience especially enjoyable for nature lovers. Seeing such a variety of fish swimming around you creates an almost surreal sensation. Some reviews go further, describing the experience as “super fun and different”—a perfect description for those used to standard beach days.

Group Size & Personal Attention

Limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, this snorkelling tour emphasizes personalized attention. Such small groups ensure the guides can give individual tips and corrections, creating a safer, more tailored experience. Many reviews mention feeling well cared for, with guides constantly monitoring participants’ comfort levels.

The Equipment & Safety

The gear provided is described as “totally adapted” and of good quality, helping participants feel safe and relaxed. The wetsuits are suitable for Lanzarote’s mild waters, and the fins, masks, and snorkels are easy to use—especially important in helping beginners feel confident. The guides also take photos and videos, which they send afterwards, adding a fun souvenir.

Cancellations & Weather Considerations

Since the experience depends on good weather, it’s wise to check the forecast beforehand. In case of poor weather, cancellations are possible with a full refund or rescheduling. The booking process offers free cancellation if you notify at least 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility for your plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkelling experience is perfect for beginners and those short on time but eager to explore Lanzarote’s underwater life. Families with children over ten, solo travelers, or couples looking for a relaxed, guided outing will find the small group size and friendly guides very reassuring. If you’re someone who appreciates good guidance and a beautiful, rocky coastline filled with fish, this tour will hit the spot.

Who Might Want To Think Twice?

If you’re a more experienced snorkeller or prefer larger, more adventurous excursions, this might feel a bit tame. Also, if weather conditions are poor or if you’re prone to seasickness, the calm waters of Playa Chica and the 1.5-hour duration make this a manageable but mild outing—so plan accordingly.

Why You’ll Love the Underwater Viewing

What sets this tour apart is the clarity of the waters and the diversity of marine life. Several reviews mention that the water visibility is excellent, allowing you to see the fish clearly and enjoy the natural beauty without straining. Plus, the guides’ knowledge adds an educational element, turning a simple snorkel into a mini eco-adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Given the reasonable price point, the small group size, and the emphasis on safety and guidance, this snorkelling experience offers solid value. It’s an excellent choice for newcomers to the underwater world or anyone seeking a safe, well-organized outing with friendly instructors. The photos and videos are a nice bonus, giving you tangible memories of this lively underwater scene.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This?

This experience is best suited for those new to snorkelling, families, or travelers looking for a gentle, guided introduction to Lanzarote’s marine environment. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, calm waters ideal for beginners, and a chance to spot a variety of colorful fish, you’ll find this tour delightful. It’s a safe, straightforward way to add a splash of underwater exploration to your Lanzarote holiday.

FAQ

Is the snorkelling experience suitable for beginners? Yes, all equipment is provided, and guides teach you how to snorkel, making it ideal for those new to the activity.

How long does the snorkelling last? The guided tour itself lasts about 30-45 minutes, within a total experience of roughly 1 hour 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Manta Diving Lanzarote shop in Puerto del Carmen and concludes back at the same meeting point.

What equipment is included? You’ll receive wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins, which are suited for Lanzarote’s mild waters.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, bookings can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before the start if weather conditions aren’t suitable.

What is the maximum group size? The experience is limited to 10 participants, ensuring plenty of personal attention and guidance.

What marine creatures can I expect to see? Expect shoals of bream, ornate wrasse, damsel fish, and parrot fish, among others, in the clear, lively waters.

Is the price good value? At around $40, considering the gear, guided instruction, and marine environment, it offers good value for an enjoyable introduction to the underwater world of Lanzarote.