Dive into the crystal clear waters of La Restinga, in El Hierro, and discover the charm of diving in one of the best destinations in the Canary Islands.
This first dive experience is perfect for beginners and offers a unique opportunity to swim alongside exotic fish and explore the seabed.
Diving baptism in La Restinga
Start of the Submarine Voyage:
- Meeting Point: The adventure begins in the port of La Restinga, a picturesque fishing village in the south of El Hierro.
- Preparations: Upon arrival, you will be equipped with a wetsuit and all the necessary equipment for your dive. An experienced instructor will give you a theory class, covering basic safety aspects, diving techniques and underwater language for communication.
Immersion:
- Diving into the sea: With the lesson learned, you will dive into the waters of El Hierro, guided by your instructor. For about forty minutes, you will experience the magic of diving, surrounded by an underwater world full of life and colour.
- Underwater Exploration: You will dive among rocky bottoms and coral reefs, marvelling at the diversity of exotic fish and the beauty of the marine ecosystem.
End of the Tour:
- Return to the Surface: After an exciting underwater exploration, you will return to the surface, taking with you unforgettable memories of your first dive.
- Accreditation Diploma: Back at the port, you will receive a diploma certifying your diving baptism, a souvenir of your introduction to the fascinating world of diving.
Important details:
- Duration: The activity has a total duration of 2 hours.
- Included: Instructor in Spanish, wetsuit, diving equipment and certificate.
- Requirements: Knowing how to swim and being in good physical condition are essential to participate in this activity.
Advice:
- Dress: Bring comfortable clothes and a swimming costume to wear under the wetsuit.
- Sun protection: Although you will be underwater, it is important to protect yourself from the sun before and after the dive.
This diving baptism in La Restinga is more than an activity; it is a door to a new world, an invitation to discover the mysteries and wonders hidden beneath the surface of the sea in El Hierro.
What marine fauna can you see while diving in El Hierro?
- El Hierro’s old fish: This endemic fish is known for its colouring and lives in the rocky reefs of the island. It is an emblematic species of El Hierro, appreciated both for its beauty and its culinary value.
- Tuna: These migratory fish are frequent visitors to the waters of El Hierro. Known for their speed and size, tuna are an impressive sight during their migratory passages.
- Grouper: These large fish are common inhabitants of cliffs and underwater caves. With their imposing presence, groupers are one of the most emblematic species of the marine fauna of El Hierro.
- Barracuda: These fish, known for their long bodies and sharp teeth, are commonly found in underwater drop-offs and ridges, where they hunt in groups.
- Angel sharks: These flattips are a pelagic species that can be found near the surface or at shallow depths. They are known for their unique shape and calm behaviour.
- Sea Turtles: The waters of El Hierro are an important habitat for several species of sea turtles, which are often seen swimming or resting in the seagrass beds and coral reefs.
- Dolphins and whales: El Hierro is a privileged place for whale and dolphin watching. Several species of dolphins and whales pass through its waters, offering unforgettable natural spectacles.
- Medregales and Pejeverdes: These fish are common in shallow waters and near the surface, where they feed and socialise in groups.
Why is El Hierro one of the Best Places to Dive?
El Hierro, the smallest island in the Canary Islands, is a diver’s paradise. With a unique combination of crystal clear visibility, temperate waters and amazing marine biodiversity, it offers an unrivalled diving experience. Here we explore why El Hierro has earned its reputation as one of the best diving destinations.
Visibility and Water Temperature:
- Exceptional Visibility: The waters of El Hierro offer a visibility of over 50 metres, allowing divers to enjoy breathtaking underwater views.
- Ideal Temperature: With temperatures ranging from 18º in winter to 24º in summer, El Hierro provides perfect conditions for diving all year round.
Variety of dives:
- Diverse underwater landscapes: From caves and drop-offs in the open sea to lava formations and sandy beaches, El Hierro offers a wide range of environments to explore.
- Marine Fauna and Flora: The island is home to a rich fauna of invertebrates, black and yellow corals, lobsters, cicadas, shrimps, anemones and sponges, among others, that inhabit its rocky bottoms and dense underwater vegetation.
El Bajón: A Legendary Underwater Volcano:
- Emblematic dive: El Bajón, an underwater volcano, is famous for having been dived by Jacques Cousteau. It is known to be one of the best dives in the world, offering a unique natural spectacle.
- History and Legend: Local fishermen were the ones who discovered this site to Cousteau, adding a touch of mystery and adventure to the diving experience.
For All Levels:
- Bautismo de Buceo y Más: El Hierro is the ideal place for beginners wishing to take their first dive or for experienced divers looking for new challenges.
International recognition:
- First Class Diving Destination: Recognised as one of the best diving areas in Spain and the best in the Canary Islands, El Hierro attracts divers from all over the world.
