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Vulcan Submarine Volcano (Seamount) | Dr John Seach
Last updated: January 2026
Shefa Province,
Vanuatu
~17.00 S, 168.50 E (approximate)
summit depth unknown
Submarine seamount
Vulcan is a submarine seamount in the central New Hebrides (Vanuatu) volcanic arc, located in the corridor between Efate and Erromango islands. It is part of the geochemically diverse back-arc volcanic chain. Limited bathymetric and sampling data exist, with no confirmed summit depth or precise coordinates in public databases. Vulcan is not listed as a Holocene volcano by the Global Volcanism Program and shows no evidence of historical eruptions.
Warning: Vulcan seamount is extinct with no activity for millions of years. Volcanic hazards are negligible. Navigation hazards may exist due to shallow areas; boating should use caution.
Geology and Volcanology
Vulcan seamount formed as part of the New Hebrides central chain, influenced by complex seismo-tectonics and back-arc spreading. Geochemical studies show varied magma compositions along the arc. No confirmed eruptive products younger than Pleistocene age. It remains poorly studied compared to active Vanuatu volcanoes like Ambrym or Yasur.
Current Activity (January 2026)
No volcanic or hydrothermal activity reported. Vulcan seamount is considered extinct with no monitoring by VMGD. No seismic, degassing, or discoloration events noted in recent years. The site poses no current hazard.
Vulcan submarine volcano photos
No dedicated photos available; Vulcan is a deep submarine feature with no surface expressions or documented expeditions capturing images.
Eruption History
No confirmed historical or Holocene eruptions. Evidence of activity within the past ~300,000 years (Pleistocene).
Further reading
Monzier, M., et al., 1997. Geochemistry vs. seismo-tectonics along the volcanic New Hebrides central chain (Southwest Pacific). Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 78(1-2), pp.1-29.
Vulcan Submarine Volcano Eruptions
No confirmed Holocene or historical eruptions
Pleistocene activity