Diving among sunken ships is one of the most enriching and exciting diving experiences that exist in our sport. Exploring wrecks (as they are called) is also an activity within the reach of any diver, even beginners, as long as the spot has the right conditions of depth, currents, etc. In this post of our blog you have the main wrecks of the island of Lanzarote, its location and some of its characteristics. Check out our dive map: we start with the jewels in the crown of Puerto del Carmen, continue with a couple of wrecks to the north and south and finish with a look around Arrecife.
Puerto del Carmen: Los Erizos
It is only natural that this set of six wrecks (five wooden fishing boats and one metal freighter, the most modern) is one of the most popular in Europe for medium level divers. Located in front of the pier (named after the nearby hotel establishment) and in a depth range of 12-40 meters, it is accessed by boat. Here you normally start your dives by descending to the deepest wreck to find its huge propeller among shoals of barracudas. Ascending the volcanic walls we encounter stingrays, alfonsitos, angel sharks, scorpion fish and the occasional grotto full of sponges and anemones. Near the jetty breakwater, we pass by the shallowest of the wrecks, visible even from the outside.
Puerto del Carmen: Quíquere ravine
In the same area we have another privileged underwater site, in this case with three wooden fishing boats as protagonists, in a sandy bed about 30 meters deep and about 100 meters apart. Two of the boats, the shallowest, are in an excellent state of preservation; the third, at a greater depth, is a skeleton of keel and frames. These ships were deliberately sunk in this area in 2004 to form a diving spot. Initially, at a depth of between 9 and 23 meters, but Nature and currents displaced the wrecks. Even so, they still offer a great dive for beginners.
[IMG: Courtesy: www.pexels.com
Costa Teguise: the Ajache
Not far from our base of operations we have a very interesting wreck that poses a certain challenge and is therefore only recommended for advanced divers: the Ajache. This old fishing boat, sunk at 38 meters deep, has become an excellent aquarium where you can find angel sharks, barracudas, amberjack, red mullet and jacks. There you have us in action.
Playa Blanca: the Casualidad
This brigantine schooner sunk in 1886 was making cabotage between the Iberian Levant and the African coast when it was caught in the shallows of Papagayo, and ran aground between Playa Blanca and Puerto de Muelas. It is located at a depth of about 30 meters in an area quite protected from both currents and prevailing winds. It is one of the least visited of the island!
Wrecks in Arrecife: the Telamon and the Rabat
The capital of Lanzarote could not be left out. We have the emblematic Telamon (formerly known as Temple Hall), launched in 1981 with a cargo of wood from the Ivory Coast. Partially submerged between 12 and 15 meters, it is an almost obligatory visit (even for snorkeling!). Another option is the Rabat: a 35-meter tuna boat lying at a depth of 18 to 32 meters at the foot of the reef that gives its name to the city. This makes it accessible, from boat, to divers of any level, although the possible currents can complicate the dive.
Dive among sunken ships in Lanzarote!
Whatever wreck has awakened your exploratory spirit, it is always a good idea to be accompanied by an experienced local diver. That’s what we are for!
