A severe maritime incident occurred on November 8th, 2025 in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, when a powerful wave surged over the seafront promenade, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries.
Emergency services reported that a group of visitors, including several identified as cruise ship passengers, had gathered along the pier to observe the rough sea when the wave struck unexpectedly, sweeping several individuals into the water.
Local maritime safety official Sebastián Quintana described the event as one of the most serious coastal accidents in recent memory, noting that those affected had not entered the sea but were standing on the promenade when the swell hit. Despite a coastal red alert in effect, the strength of the surge caught onlookers off guard.
Rescue teams responded promptly, recovering all individuals from the water. Ten people were affected, with three sustaining serious injuries. Authorities confirmed that some victims were foreign tourists who had arrived earlier that morning aboard a cruise ship docked in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for a day visit.
The deceased, believed to be a Dutch national, was recovered from the water in cardiac arrest and could not be revived despite the rapid intervention of emergency responders.
At the time of the incident, the Canary Islands were under a severe weather alert, with wave heights reaching up to 15 feet in certain areas. Officials have opened an investigation and reiterated warnings for residents and tourists to avoid coastal walkways during adverse marine conditions.
Port data indicated that four cruise vessels—Silver Dawn, Azura, Mein Schiff 3, and Sky Princess—were docked in Santa Cruz de Tenerife on the day of the incident.