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Diving with Sharks and Shipwrecks: Tenerife’s Best Underwater Adventures

GVI

Posted: March 31, 2023

Tenerife is an island belonging to the Canary Islands and located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. It is known for its sandy beaches, volcanic landscape and warm climate, but it’s also a popular destination for scuba-divers. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Tenerife’s diving scene, highlight its unique underwater ecosystem, discuss the factors to consider before diving and explore the top 5 dive sites. We’ll also look at diving with marine life, the importance of responsible diving practices, the best time of year to dive, choosing the right dive operator for your needs, and give you tips for planning a memorable dive trip in Tenerife.

Introduction to Tenerife’s Diving Scene

Tenerife’s diving scene is a fascinating world filled with underwater caves, volcanic rock formations and rich marine life. The island has a mild climate and warm water, making it an all-year-round diving destination. The surrounding Atlantic Ocean and its unique underwater environment will take your breath away.

One of the most popular diving spots in Tenerife is the El Condesito shipwreck, a cargo ship that sank in 1972 and now rests at a depth of 30 meters. The wreck is home to a variety of marine life, including barracudas, groupers and octopuses. Another must-see spot is the Yellow Mountain, a volcanic rock formation that rises from the ocean floor and is covered in yellow sponges and sea fans. Tenerife’s diving scene offers something for divers of all levels, from beginner to advanced, and is a truly unforgettable experience.

Tenerife’s Unique Underwater Ecosystem

Tenerife’s underwater world is a reflection of its volcanic origins. Its underwater ecosystem is home to a variety of species, including barracudas, whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles. The island is also famous for its black coral, which is only found in certain parts of the world. Tenerife’s underwater topography is also unique, with a series of underwater canyons and volcanic rock formations that provide a fascinating backdrop for diving.

In addition to its diverse marine life and unique topography, Tenerife’s underwater ecosystem is also home to several shipwrecks that have become popular dive sites. One of the most famous wrecks is the El Condesito. Divers can explore the ship’s hull and cargo holds. Another popular wreck is the Tabaiba, a 35-metre long fishing vessel that sank in 2003 and now lies at a depth of 18 metres. These wrecks provide a glimpse into Tenerife’s maritime history and offer a thrilling diving experience for enthusiasts.

Factors to Consider Before Diving in Tenerife

Before embarking on a diving expedition in Tenerife, there are some factors you need to consider. One of the primary considerations is your level of experience as a diver. Some of the dive sites in Tenerife have strong currents and deeper depths, which may be unsuitable for novice divers. Another factor to consider is the weather’s condition, as it can affect the water’s visibility and make diving challenging.

Top 5 Dive Sites in Tenerife

Tenerife is a popular scuba diving destination with clear waters and diverse marine life. Here are the top five dive sites in Tenerife:

Stingray Cave: Located off the coast of Los Gigantes, known for unique rock formations and large population of stingrays.
El Condesito Shipwreck: A sunken cargo ship lying at a depth of 30 meters, home to various species of fish.
Radazul Wall: A vertical drop-off descending to 300 meters, frequented by turtles and barracudas.
Montaña Amarilla: A volcanic rock formation that houses an abundance of marine life, including angel sharks and octopuses.
Cueva de los Cerebros: A cave system located off the coast of Santa Cruz, home to colorful sponges, sea fans, and nudibranchs.

These dive sites offer a unique and unforgettable experience for divers of all levels.

Diving with Marine Life: What to Expect

Tenerife’s underwater world is full of life, and divers can expect to encounter a range of marine animals, including stingrays, moray eels and schools of colourful fish. The island is also home to several species of sharks, including the awe-inspiring whale shark. Although diving with sharks can be intimidating, it’s usually safe as long as you practice responsible diving techniques.

The Importance of Responsible Diving Practices

As divers, we must take care of the underwater environment we are exploring. Responsible diving practices, such as not touching the coral or disturbing marine life, is essential. Divers must also be aware of their diving limits, respect wildlife, and ensure that they leave no traces of their presence behind after the dive.

Best Time of Year to Dive in Tenerife

You can dive in Tenerife all year round, but the best time to visit is between May and October. During this period, the water is warmer and the weather is generally better for diving. However, if you’re interested in diving with whale sharks, the best time to visit is between December and April.

Choosing the Right Dive Operator for Your Needs

Choosing a dive operator that meets your needs is essential for an enjoyable and safe diving experience in Tenerife. Look for a dive operator with a good reputation, well-maintained gear and boats and experienced instructors. It’s also important to make sure that the dive operator has the necessary insurance and certifications.

Tips for Planning a Memorable Dive Trip to Tenerife

When planning a dive trip to Tenerife, it’s important to research the island’s diving scene to determine the best time of year to visit, the dive sites you want to explore, and the dive operator that meets your needs. It’s also essential to make sure that you have the right dive gear and insurance before embarking on the journey.

Discovering the best diving spots in Tenerife is an unforgettable experience that will take your diving skills to the next level. The island’s unique underwater ecosystem, diverse marine life and stunning underwater topography provide ample opportunities for divers of all levels to explore the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. By practicing responsible diving practices and choosing the right dive operator, you’re sure to have a memorable and safe diving experience in Tenerife.

GVI offers a range of marine conservation volunteer programs in Tenerife, Spain, focused on protecting the island’s marine ecosystem. Participants can choose from a variety of programs, including dolphin and whale conservation, citizen science and sustainable and ethical ecotourism. By participating in a marine conservation volunteer program in the Canary Islands, individuals can make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable skills and experiences.

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