REVIEW · LANZAROTE
Puerto del Carmen: Guided Scuba Dive (certified only)
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by Atlantis Diving Lanzarote · Bookable on GetYourGuide
If you like sea life with zero script, this one fits. The guided experience runs for certified scuba participants from Puerto del Carmen, with a speedboat ride to a south-coast underwater site in Lanzarote’s protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve area. You’re set up for real-world conditions, like visibility that can change with the day.
I really like the small group setup (limited to 6) and the safety logic of matching everyone by certification level. I also like the focus on angel sharks, a species you don’t see everywhere—and the operator also aims for other protected flora and fauna when conditions allow.
One thing to weigh: this activity is only for certified scuba participants, and it is not suitable for pregnancy or certain medical conditions (heart problems, epilepsy), plus you’ll need to bring your certification and a medical statement.
In This Review
- Key things I’d zoom in on before booking
- Where the Puerto del Carmen shoreline turns into real underwater wildlife
- Meeting point and what happens before you’re on the boat
- The speedboat ride: why it’s part of the value, not just transport
- What the guided underwater session is like for certified participants
- Safety and equipment details that matter on a real saltwater day
- Price and value: is $63 a fair deal?
- Who this scuba tour suits best (and who should skip it)
- Practical tips to help your day run smoothly
- Should you book this guided scuba session from Puerto del Carmen?
- FAQ
- What scuba certification do I need?
- How long does the tour last?
- Where do I meet for the activity?
- Is hotel pickup included?
- What’s included in the price?
- Do I need diving insurance?
- What do I need to bring?
- What if I don’t have a current diving medical certificate?
- Is the group size small?
- Is it suitable for everyone?
Key things I’d zoom in on before booking

- Max 6 participants so you get hands-on attention without feeling like a cattle car
- Same certification level in your group for smoother, safer planning underwater
- Angel sharks are a main target off the south coast of Lanzarote when conditions cooperate
- Cressi equipment is replaced yearly, which is a big comfort factor for safety and reliability
- UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protections support the marine life you’re hoping to see
- Weather controls the exact site, so expect the operator to choose the best option that day
Where the Puerto del Carmen shoreline turns into real underwater wildlife

Puerto del Carmen sits on Lanzarote’s south coast, which is exactly where this trip is aiming its attention. The goal is to get you away from the harbor quickly, then into waters where you can see a mix of marine life in good visibility.
What I like about this format is that it doesn’t pretend every day is the same. Instead, it leans into the reality that sea and weather conditions matter. The operator chooses the specific underwater location based on what’s happening that day, which is often how you get the best views rather than forcing a plan that doesn’t work.
This area is tied to conservation too. Lanzarote is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the trip focuses on ecosystems that are conserved. That matters because you’re not just chasing a photo moment—you’re visiting a place where marine life has some protection working in its favor.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lanzarote.
Meeting point and what happens before you’re on the boat

You meet at the Atlantis scuba center on the lower level of the commercial center in Puerto del Carmen. The info says you can reach it via a long ramp, so plan for some ramp walking rather than elevator hops.
Once you arrive, the flow is straightforward:
- You check in at the center.
- You get kitted out with scuba equipment.
- You then board the rib boat and head out to the chosen underwater spot.
This part is more than admin. When I’m doing any guided water activity, I want the gear process to be calm and organized. Here, the tour is set up for a small group, so your equipment setup and briefings tend to happen without the rushed feeling you get on larger operations.
Also, note the languages. The live guide may speak Catalan, English, Spanish, or Italian. If you’re not fully confident in a second language, it helps to know there’s usually an option that keeps communication clear during the safety talk.
The speedboat ride: why it’s part of the value, not just transport

You’re not just getting from point A to point B. You’re using a speedboat to reach the diving-area style spots more efficiently, which can directly affect your underwater time and your overall experience.
The trip runs about 2.5 hours total, so you’ll feel that rhythm. There’s enough time for a proper gear process, a boat run, and an underwater session, but it stays realistic for a half-day plan.
One practical note: the underwater location can vary depending on sea and weather conditions. That means even if you’ve done research on one specific patch of coast, your day may shift. The good news is that the operator isn’t guessing—they’re selecting what’s suitable and visible that day.
What the guided underwater session is like for certified participants

This is where the tour earns its keep. It’s designed for certified scuba participants, and the group is made up of people at the same certification level. That matters more than it sounds.
Why? When everyone is working from the same baseline, you tend to get:
- better buoyancy and equipment matching in the group
- clearer safety expectations
- less waiting around during key moments underwater
The operator aims for good visibility, because it’s the difference between seeing shapes and actually recognizing animals. With stronger visibility, you’re more likely to notice details in protected flora and fauna, not just pass by them.
The trip also specifically calls out angel sharks. That’s the main headline, but the experience is broader than one animal. You’re there to see the underwater world off Lanzarote’s south coast—within a protected ecosystem—so the day isn’t just one brief encounter.
In plain terms: you’ll be guided in the water, using the group setup to keep things smooth, and the goal is to help you see more than you would on your own.
Safety and equipment details that matter on a real saltwater day
I always look at safety details that go beyond the standard speech. Here, there are several points worth noting.
First, certified guide support is included. You’re not trying to manage everything yourself while also learning the underwater scene. The guide’s job is to help you follow the plan and keep the session comfortable.
Second, the equipment. The tour lists Cressi scuba equipment and says it is replaced yearly for safety. Replaced yearly is a strong detail because it implies the gear isn’t sitting for years in a state of unknown wear. You still need to do your own checks and follow instructions, but it’s reassuring when the operator is investing in keeping the gear current.
Third, medical requirements are explicit. You must bring your diving certification and a medical statement. If you don’t have a current diving medical certificate, the info says you may self-certificate by filling out a medical questionnaire.
If you’re in a risk category, pay attention to the exclusions. This activity is not suitable for:
- pregnant women
- people with heart problems
- people with epilepsy
Also, alcohol and drugs are not allowed. That’s a standard rule, but it’s good that it’s clearly stated up front.
One more safety reality: the exact site will vary with sea and weather conditions. That’s not a dodge; it’s how operators reduce risk and improve visibility. It also means your day might not match the internet-perfect image you had in mind.
Price and value: is $63 a fair deal?
At $63 per person, you’re paying for a half-day experience built around three big cost drivers:
- Speedboat transportation
- Scuba equipment
- Certified guide time
That’s not nothing. Boat-based guided scuba-style trips generally cost more once you factor in transport and staff. Here, the price includes boat transportation and your scuba equipment, which is a direct value add if you don’t already have gear with you.
What’s not included is also important:
- hotel pickup and drop-off (you’ll get yourself to the meeting point)
- diving insurance (you can arrange it at the dive center for €8 per day)
So the value question comes down to how you’re handling logistics. If you’re staying in Puerto del Carmen already, you avoid extra transport costs. And if you don’t have insurance lined up, the optional €8/day gives you a clear on-ramp rather than forcing you into a last-minute search.
If you do already have gear and insurance, you might be comparing this to independent bookings. But the small group size and certification-level matching can be the difference between a relaxing day and a stressful one.
Who this scuba tour suits best (and who should skip it)
This is a clear fit if you:
- have a valid scuba certification (SSI CMAS, PADI, or equivalent such as Open Water through Rescue)
- want a guided underwater session with a structured group
- like the idea of seeing native angel sharks where marine ecosystems are protected
It’s also a good choice if you’re working on improving your skills. The highlights mention that you can deepen your scuba skills with an experienced, certified instructor, which is exactly what many certified people want next—less guessing, more feedback, and better awareness of what’s worth looking at underwater.
It’s not the right move if you’re:
- not certified
- pregnant
- managing heart problems or epilepsy
- in a situation where you can’t complete the required medical statement/questionnaire steps
If you’re on the edge medically, don’t wing it. Use the medical questionnaire process and follow the operator’s guidance rather than trying to self-interpret risk.
Practical tips to help your day run smoothly
A good underwater day starts before you hit the water. Here’s what you can do with the info you already have:
- Bring your scuba certification and the required medical statement. If you need the questionnaire, plan for it before the activity.
- Show up with your gear readiness mindset. Even with provided Cressi equipment, you’ll move faster if you’re calm and ready to get fitted.
- Expect the underwater site to shift based on conditions. Build your day around the experience, not around one exact coordinates fantasy.
- Be ready for a small group format. With only up to 6 participants, you’ll likely get more direct attention from the guide—so listen closely and follow instructions early.
Also, since alcohol and drugs are not allowed, keep the plan sober and sensible. Save the drinks for after you surface and celebrate.
Should you book this guided scuba session from Puerto del Carmen?
I’d book it if you’re a certified scuba participant and you want a guided setup with the safety details that actually help: small group size, same certification level, a certified guide, and Cressi gear replaced yearly. The chance to see angel sharks off Lanzarote’s south coast is the kind of target that can make the whole trip feel special, especially in a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve setting.
I’d skip it if you’re not currently certified or you’re in a health category listed as not suitable. And if your biggest priority is total schedule rigidity—never-changing locations—keep in mind the operator chooses the site based on sea and weather.
If you want a well-run, focused water activity with real marine-life goals and clear safety boundaries, this one is a strong match.
FAQ
What scuba certification do I need?
The activity is only for certified scuba participants, including SSI CMAS, PADI, or an equivalent certificate such as Open Water, Advanced, or Rescue.
How long does the tour last?
The duration is listed as 2.5 hours. Starting times depend on availability.
Where do I meet for the activity?
Meet at Atlantis (the scuba center) on the lower level of the commercial center in Puerto del Carmen. It’s accessible via a long ramp.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
What’s included in the price?
Included items are boat transportation, scuba equipment, and a certified guide.
Do I need diving insurance?
Diving insurance is not included. The info says you can arrange it at the dive center for €8 per day.
What do I need to bring?
You should bring your scuba certification and a medical statement.
What if I don’t have a current diving medical certificate?
You may self-certify by filling in a medical questionnaire.
Is the group size small?
Yes. The group is limited to 6 participants.
Is it suitable for everyone?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or people with epilepsy. Alcohol and drugs are also not allowed.

























