Scuba diving in Fuerteventura. The island offers excellent opportunities for scuba diving with its clear waters, diverse marine life, and interesting underwater landscapes. Here’s what you need to know about scuba diving in Fuerteventura:
Popular Dive Sites:
- Los Lobos Island:
- A marine reserve located off the coast of Corralejo.
- Clear waters and diverse marine life, including rays, moray eels, and colorful fish.
- El Jablito:
- Near Corralejo, this site is known for its underwater caves and arches.
- Suitable for divers of various experience levels.
- Cave of the Barranco de la Catedral:
- Located off the coast of Ajuy.
- Features underwater caves and tunnels, providing a unique diving experience.
- La Burrera:
- A dive site with rock formations and underwater tunnels.
- Possible sightings of large fish and rays.
- Los Colorados:
- Near Cotillo, this site is known for its rocky landscape and abundant marine life.
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Diving Conditions:
- Visibility: Generally good visibility ranging from 20 to 40 meters.
- Water Temperature: Varies between 18°C (64°F) in winter and 24°C (75°F) in summer.
- Currents: Can vary depending on the dive site. Some sites may experience stronger currents.
Dive Centers:
There are several dive centers on the island that offer guided dives, scuba courses, and equipment rental. These centers typically cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
Marine Life:
Fuerteventura’s underwater world is rich in marine life, including:
- Fish Species: Moray eels, groupers, barracudas, bream, and more.
- Invertebrates: Octopuses, nudibranchs, and various crustaceans.
- Rays: Stingrays and eagle rays are common sightings.
- Turtles: Loggerhead and green sea turtles are occasionally seen.
Diving Courses:
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are diving courses available to suit your needs. These may include introductory courses for beginners, advanced courses for certified divers, and specialty courses for those interested in specific aspects of diving.
Best Time to Dive:
Fuerteventura offers diving opportunities year-round. However, the summer months (June to September) tend to have warmer water temperatures, making it a more comfortable time for diving. The winter months (December to February) may have cooler water temperatures but still provide good diving conditions.
Before diving, ensure that you have the necessary certifications, and always dive with a reputable dive center that prioritizes safety. Check the local conditions, weather forecasts, and any specific guidelines provided by the dive center for each dive site.