Submarine Adventures in Gran Canaria: A Rip-Off That Highlights a Dying Ocean

Gran Canaria, the crown jewel of the Canary Islands, is often marketed as a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. Among its many attractions is the promise of an unforgettable submarine adventure—a chance to explore the underwater world in comfort and style. However, for many tourists, the reality of this experience is far from the dreamy advertisements. With little marine life to see, barren ocean floors, and steep prices, these excursions are leaving visitors feeling not just underwhelmed but outright cheated.

The Submarine Adventure: What’s Promised vs. Reality

Promotional materials for submarine tours in Gran Canaria promise an awe-inspiring journey beneath the waves, showcasing vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish and marine life. For a hefty price tag—often exceeding €35 per person—tourists expect to marvel at the ocean’s wonders.

But once aboard the submarine and descending into the depths, reality sets in. The underwater world presented is starkly different from the brochures. Many visitors report seeing little to no fish, and the coral reefs that should be bustling with life are either nonexistent or dead. Instead, the view often consists of barren sand, scattered rocks, and occasional man-made objects placed to simulate a reef environment.

A Dying Ocean in Plain View

The disappointing experience isn’t just about unmet expectations—it’s a painful reminder of the state of our oceans. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change are decimating marine ecosystems worldwide, and Gran Canaria is no exception.

The Canary Islands’ waters once boasted a rich marine biodiversity, but years of neglect have taken their toll:

Overfishing has depleted fish populations, leaving the waters eerily empty.
Pollution from plastics and industrial runoff has harmed marine life and degraded coral reefs.
Climate change has led to rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, which further disrupt marine ecosystems.

The lack of vibrant life on these submarine tours is a reflection of the urgent need to address these issues. For tourists, the experience becomes not just a disappointment but a stark education in the consequences of humanity’s impact on the planet.

The Price Tag: A Rip-Off for What You Get

Beyond the environmental concerns, the cost of these excursions adds insult to injury. Many families and travelers save up to afford these once-in-a-lifetime experiences, only to leave feeling like they’ve wasted their money. The price point often includes flashy marketing, upkeep of the submarine, and operational costs, but what’s glaringly absent is any real value for the customer.

For the same price—or even less—travelers could visit aquariums or marine sanctuaries where conservation is a priority, and where they can see thriving marine life while supporting efforts to protect the ocean.

A Call to Action: Promote Ocean Health, Not Exploitation

The companies running these submarine tours have a responsibility to do more than profit from the ocean—they should actively contribute to its preservation. Here’s how they can make a positive impact:

Invest in Marine Conservation: Companies can fund projects to restore coral reefs, protect endangered species, and clean up the ocean. These efforts can help rebuild the ecosystems that tourists come to see.
Offer Educational Experiences: Instead of focusing solely on profit, tours can include educational components that inform visitors about the challenges facing our oceans and what they can do to help.
Adopt Sustainable Practices: This includes reducing emissions from their operations, avoiding areas that are ecologically sensitive, and partnering with local conservation organizations.
Promote Eco-Tourism: Create tours that actively engage tourists in conservation activities, such as planting coral or participating in beach cleanups, making the experience both meaningful and impactful.

Questionable Promotions and Reviews

Adding to the frustration is the disconnect between the glowing reviews found on platforms like Viator, GetYourGuide, and TripAdvisor and the reality of the experience. Many tourists who have taken these excursions report feeling duped by overly positive reviews that do not reflect the underwhelming experience. This discrepancy raises questions about the authenticity of some of the reviews and whether companies are prioritizing marketing over delivering genuine value. Tourists often express disbelief that such lackluster adventures are rated so highly, further amplifying their sense of being ripped off.

What Tourists Can Do

As consumers, tourists have the power to influence the market by choosing activities that align with their values. Before booking a submarine tour or any similar excursion, consider the following:

Research: Look for reviews and check whether the company has a track record of supporting marine conservation.
Ask Questions: Inquire about the environmental impact of the tour and whether the company reinvests in local ecosystems.
Support Responsible Tourism: Opt for experiences that prioritize education, conservation, and sustainability.

The Bigger Picture: Saving Our Oceans

Gran Canaria’s disappointing submarine adventures are a symptom of a larger problem: the state of our oceans. While these tours may not deliver the promised experience, they can serve as a wake-up call to tourists and businesses alike. The health of our oceans is inextricably linked to the health of our planet, and it’s time to prioritize preservation over exploitation. Tourism doesn’t have to harm the environment—it can be a force for good. But for that to happen, companies must take responsibility for their impact, and tourists must demand better. Together, we can turn experiences like submarine adventures into opportunities to restore and protect the ocean, ensuring that future generations can marvel at the wonders of the deep, not the scars of our neglect.