Lanzarote, the easternmost of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a mesmerizing underwater world that beckons divers from across the globe. With its volcanic origins, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine ecosystems, this sun-kissed paradise presents a unique playground for underwater enthusiasts. From vibrant reefs teeming with life to otherworldly lava formations, Lanzarote’s subaquatic landscape promises unforgettable diving experiences for beginners and seasoned professionals alike.
Lanzarote’s unique underwater topography
The underwater terrain of Lanzarote is a testament to its volcanic heritage. Dramatic lava tubes, towering underwater cliffs, and expansive caverns create an intricate labyrinth beneath the waves. This distinctive topography not only provides shelter for a myriad of marine species but also offers divers an unparalleled opportunity to explore nature’s architectural marvels.
One of the most striking features of Lanzarote’s underwater landscape is the presence of black sand beaches, a result of the island’s volcanic activity. These ebony shores extend beneath the surface, creating a stark contrast against the vibrant marine life and colourful coral formations. The interplay of light and shadow on this dark canvas produces an ethereal atmosphere that captivates divers and underwater photographers alike.
The island’s underwater topography also includes vast fields of petrified lava , forming intricate patterns and structures that serve as home to numerous species. These solidified lava flows create a surreal backdrop for dive explorations, offering glimpses into the island’s fiery past while supporting a thriving ecosystem in the present.
Prime diving locations around lanzarote
Lanzarote boasts an array of world-class diving sites, each offering its own unique underwater experience. From shallow reefs perfect for beginners to challenging deep dives for the more experienced, the island caters to all levels of diving expertise.
Playa chica: vibrant reef ecosystems
Playa Chica, located in Puerto del Carmen, is a favourite among divers for its accessibility and rich marine life. This site features a gently sloping reef that descends to depths of around 30 meters, making it suitable for divers of various skill levels. The reef is home to a diverse array of species, including colourful parrotfish, curious octopuses, and the occasional angel shark.
One of the highlights of diving at Playa Chica is the opportunity to observe the delicate balance of the reef ecosystem. Divers can witness the symbiotic relationships between cleaner wrasses and larger fish, or watch as moray eels peek out from their rocky hideaways. The site also features several small caves and overhangs, providing exciting exploration opportunities for those comfortable with limited overhead environments.
Museo atlántico: europe’s first underwater sculpture museum
The Museo Atlántico, located off the coast of Playa Blanca, is a unique underwater attraction that combines art with marine conservation. Created by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, this submerged museum features over 300 life-size sculptures arranged in thought-provoking installations. The museum serves as an artificial reef, promoting marine life while offering divers an extraordinary cultural experience.
Diving at the Museo Atlántico is like entering a surreal underwater world where human forms blend seamlessly with the marine environment. The sculptures, made from pH-neutral materials, are slowly being colonized by corals and algae, creating an ever-evolving underwater landscape. This site not only provides an exceptional diving experience but also raises awareness about marine conservation and the impact of human activities on ocean ecosystems.
Wrecks of mala: sunken vessels and marine biodiversity
The waters off the coast of Mala, in the northeast of Lanzarote, are home to several fascinating wreck dives. These sunken vessels, ranging from small fishing boats to larger cargo ships, have become thriving artificial reefs teeming with marine life. The wrecks offer exciting opportunities for exploration and photography, with each site telling its own unique story of maritime history.
One of the most popular wrecks in the area is the Temple Hall , a cargo ship that sank in 1981. Now lying at a depth of 15-30 meters, the wreck has become a haven for marine life, including large schools of sardines, barracudas, and even the occasional ray or turtle. The ship’s structure, still largely intact, provides an excellent playground for wreck diving enthusiasts and underwater photographers.
Playa del carmen: cave diving adventures
For those seeking a more adventurous diving experience, the underwater caves near Playa del Carmen offer thrilling exploration opportunities. These lava tubes , formed by ancient volcanic activity, create an intricate network of tunnels and caverns that extend far beneath the island’s surface.
Cave diving in Lanzarote requires specialized training and equipment, but for qualified divers, it offers a unique chance to witness the island’s geological history firsthand. The caves feature stunning rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, as well as occasional air pockets known as cenotes . These dives are not only technically challenging but also provide insight into the complex hydrology of the island.
Charco del palo: night diving hotspot
Charco del Palo, a small coastal village in the northeast of Lanzarote, is renowned for its exceptional night diving opportunities. As the sun sets, a different cast of marine characters emerges, transforming the underwater landscape into a nocturnal wonderland.
Night dives at Charco del Palo reveal a world of bioluminescence, with many marine organisms emitting their own light. Divers can observe hunting behaviours of nocturnal predators like moray eels and cuttlefish, or witness the mesmerizing dance of plankton in the beam of their dive lights. The site also features several small caverns and overhangs that take on an entirely different character in the darkness, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the dive.
Marine life encounters in lanzarote waters
The waters surrounding Lanzarote are home to a rich and diverse array of marine life, making every dive an opportunity for fascinating encounters. From tiny nudibranchs to large pelagic species, the island’s ecosystem supports a wide range of organisms that captivate and inspire divers.
Angel sharks: observing critically endangered species
Lanzarote is one of the few places in the world where divers have a good chance of encountering angel sharks (Squatina squatina). These critically endangered species are often found resting on sandy bottoms, perfectly camouflaged against the seabed. Observing these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat is a privilege that comes with great responsibility.
Divers are encouraged to practice responsible wildlife observation techniques when encountering angel sharks. This includes maintaining a respectful distance, avoiding flash photography, and never touching or disturbing the animals. By adhering to these guidelines, divers can help protect these vulnerable species while enjoying a rare and memorable encounter.
Barracuda schools: pelagic fish formations
The open waters around Lanzarote are often visited by large schools of barracuda, creating spectacular underwater scenes. These sleek, predatory fish can form impressive formations, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. Watching a school of barracuda move in perfect synchronization is a mesmerizing experience that highlights the complex social behaviours of marine life.
Barracuda sightings are particularly common at sites with strong currents or near drop-offs, where these fish gather to hunt. Divers may encounter different species of barracuda, including the European barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena) and the yellowmouth barracuda (Sphyraena viridensis). While generally not aggressive towards humans, divers should always maintain a respectful distance from these powerful predators.
Octopus gardens: cephalopod behaviour study
Lanzarote’s underwater landscape provides ideal habitats for various octopus species, offering divers the chance to observe these intelligent cephalopods up close. Areas with rocky bottoms and plenty of hiding spots, such as the reefs around Puerto del Carmen, are particularly good for octopus sightings.
Observing octopus behaviour can be a fascinating aspect of diving in Lanzarote. These clever creatures are known for their problem-solving abilities and complex social interactions. Divers might witness octopuses using tools, changing colours for camouflage, or even engaging in elaborate mating rituals. The common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) is the most frequently encountered species, but lucky divers might also spot rarer varieties like the long-armed octopus (Macrotritopus defilippi).
Seahorse colonies: macro photography opportunities
For underwater photography enthusiasts, particularly those interested in macro subjects, Lanzarote offers excellent opportunities to capture images of seahorses. These delicate creatures can be found in sheltered areas with plenty of seagrass or gorgonian fans, which they use for camouflage and anchoring.
The long-snouted seahorse (Hippocampus guttulatus) is the most common species found in Lanzarote’s waters. These tiny marvels of evolution, with their unique body shape and mesmerizing eye movements, make for captivating photographic subjects. Patience and a keen eye are essential for spotting seahorses, as they are masters of camouflage and often remain motionless for long periods.
Diving conditions and seasonal variations
Lanzarote’s favourable climate and geographical position contribute to excellent diving conditions throughout the year. However, there are some seasonal variations that divers should be aware of when planning their underwater adventures.
Water temperatures in Lanzarote range from about 19°C (66°F) in winter to 23°C (73°F) in summer. While these temperatures are generally comfortable for diving, most divers opt for a 5mm wetsuit year-round, with some choosing to add a hood and gloves during the cooler months. The following table provides an overview of typical diving conditions throughout the year:
| Season | Water Temperature | Visibility | Notable Marine Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 19-20°C (66-68°F) | 20-30m (65-98ft) | Angel sharks, rays |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 20-21°C (68-70°F) | 25-35m (82-115ft) | Octopuses, seahorses |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 22-23°C (72-73°F) | 30-40m (98-131ft) | Barracuda schools, turtles |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | 21-22°C (70-72°F) | 25-35m (82-115ft) | Manta rays, whale sharks (rare) |
Visibility in Lanzarote’s waters is generally excellent, often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet). However, it can be affected by seasonal plankton blooms, particularly in late spring and early summer. These blooms, while reducing visibility, also attract larger pelagic species, offering opportunities for exciting encounters.
Surface conditions are typically calm, with the island providing shelter from strong Atlantic currents. However, some dive sites, particularly those on the northern coast, can experience stronger currents and choppier surface conditions. Always check with local dive centres for the most up-to-date information on diving conditions and site accessibility.
Lanzarote dive centres and PADI certifications
Lanzarote boasts a wide array of professional dive centres catering to divers of all levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to take your first breaths underwater or an experienced diver seeking to expand your skills, the island’s dive shops offer a comprehensive range of courses and services.
Native diving lanzarote: technical diving courses
Native Diving Lanzarote, located in Puerto del Carmen, is renowned for its technical diving courses. For divers looking to push their limits and explore deeper waters, this centre offers advanced training in trimix diving, rebreather technology, and cave diving techniques. Their experienced instructors provide personalized guidance, ensuring that students develop the skills and confidence necessary for safe technical diving.
The centre also organizes regular expeditions to some of Lanzarote’s more challenging dive sites, including deep wrecks and remote volcanic formations. These trips provide excellent opportunities for technical divers to put their skills into practice in a controlled environment.
Manta diving lanzarote: speciality nitrox training
Manta Diving Lanzarote, based in Playa Blanca, specializes in nitrox training and diving. Nitrox, a breathing gas mixture with a higher percentage of oxygen than regular air, allows for extended bottom times and reduced decompression obligations. The centre offers PADI Enriched Air Diver courses, equipping divers with the knowledge and skills to safely use nitrox mixtures.
In addition to nitrox training, Manta Diving organizes regular trips to the Museo Atlántico, providing divers with a unique opportunity to explore this underwater art installation while benefiting from the advantages of nitrox diving.
Dive college lanzarote: underwater photography workshops
For those interested in capturing the beauty of Lanzarote’s underwater world, Dive College Lanzarote in Costa Teguise offers specialized underwater photography workshops. These courses cover everything from basic camera settings and composition techniques to advanced lighting and post-processing skills.
The centre’s instructors are experienced underwater photographers who provide hands-on guidance during dives, helping students perfect their techniques in real-world conditions. The workshops also include topside sessions on image editing and marine life identification, ensuring that participants leave with a comprehensive skill set for underwater photography.
Conservation efforts and Eco-Diving practices
Lanzarote’s diving community is deeply committed to marine conservation, recognizing the importance of preserving the island’s unique underwater ecosystems for future generations. Many dive centres actively participate in conservation initiatives and promote eco-friendly diving practices.
One significant conservation effort is the regular underwater clean-up dives organized by local dive shops. These events bring together divers from around the island to remove marine debris, particularly plastics, from popular dive sites. Not only do these clean-ups help maintain the health of the marine environment, but they also raise awareness about the impact of pollution on ocean ecosystems.
Many dive centres in Lanzarote have adopted eco-friendly practices in their operations. This includes using reef-safe sunscreens, implementing boat practices that minimize impact on marine life, and educating divers about responsible underwater behaviour. Some centres have even started offering eco-diving speciality courses, focusing on marine biology, conservation techniques, and sustainable diving practices.
The creation of the Museo Atlántico has also contributed to conservation efforts by serving as an artificial reef. The sculptures provide a substrate for coral growth and create new habitats for marine life, helping to relieve pressure on natural reefs. The museum also serves as an educational tool, raising awareness about the fragility of marine ecosystems and the need for their protection.
Divers visiting Lanzarote are encouraged to participate in these conservation efforts by following responsible diving practices, supporting eco-friendly dive operators, and participating in clean-up initiatives when possible. By working together, the diving community can help ensure that Lanzarote’s underwater treasures remain vibrant and accessible for years to come.