Portuguese Caravel Returns to the Island’s North

Strong offshore currents drag this dangerous organism to the island’s coast in winter

The strong offshore currents of recent days are once again bringing Portuguese man‑of‑war specimens to the island’s shores, with sightings reported along the coasts of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

These organisms cannot move on their own and usually live in open sea, but the heavy winter swells and offshore currents push them onto our beaches.

Swimmers are advised to exercise caution, as contact with the long tentacles can cause a very unpleasant experience for the affected person.

Floating Organism Cluster

In winter, powerful storms attract this hazardous open‑sea creature, which lacks swimming ability. It floats and is carried by currents and winds during strong gales, unable to counteract these forces.

The appearance of Portuguese man‑of‑war in Canary waters is typical at this time of year, as they are swept in by Atlantic storms. They are not jellyfish but siphonophores: a violet‑colored float that drifts on the water’s surface, with stinging tentacles hanging below that can extend several metres.

The venom is released spontaneously. Although it is not considered lethal, it can affect small children and allergic individuals, making it truly dangerous in those cases. The most common symptoms include vomiting, fever, nausea, and intense pain at the sting site.