Artificial - Canary Islands

Okay, so "Artificial" in the Canaries. It’s not just a pile of rubble; this site is a proper journey. We love heading out here, especially on a calm morning, because the way the light filters through the water and hits the deliberately placed structures is something else. You descend onto what feels like an underwater sculpture park, a collection of concrete blocks and shapes, all designed to invite life. What makes it special for us is how quickly nature reclaims things. These aren't ancient ruins, but already, every crevice, every overhang, hosts something interesting. We've seen moray eels peeking out from pipes, schools of barracuda circling the taller structures, and the nudibranchs here are surprisingly prolific if you take your time to look closely at the encrusting sponges. It feels a bit like diving in a submerged art installation that’s constantly evolving. This spot is great for intermediate divers who appreciate the subtle beauty of a developing ecosystem. You can spend an entire dive just navigating the different sections, finding new things tucked away. Our pick for the best experience? Go slow, really poke around the nooks and crannies. You’ll be rewarded with more than just fish - it’s a masterclass in how an artificial reef comes alive.

Location
Canary Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
27.730500, -15.653200
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m
Difficulty
Intermediate

Wreck History - Artificial

Vessel Type
unknown
Cause
scuttled

Deliberately scuttled to create a new underwater habitat, this artificial reef is a testament to marine conservation efforts in the Canary Islands. The practice of sinking prepared vessels and structures provides a solid foundation for new life to take hold, relieving pressure on natural reefs and creating exciting new dive sites. Resting at a comfortable 20 metres, this wreck was carefully cleaned and made safe for divers before its descent. It now serves as a thriving underwater oasis, attracting a huge variety of the region's famed marine life. Divers can explore the structure as it slowly transforms into a living reef, encrusted with sponges and algae, while schools of damselfish, bream, and barracuda patrol the clear Atlantic waters.

Marine Protected Area: Franja marina de Mogán

Best Time to Dive in Canary Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Canary Islands occur in September, averaging 23.7°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 19.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 20.1°C
  • February: 19.5°C
  • March: 19.3°C
  • April: 19.8°C
  • May: 20.6°C
  • June: 21.8°C
  • July: 22.6°C
  • August: 23.1°C
  • September: 23.7°C
  • October: 23.5°C
  • November: 22.4°C
  • December: 21.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Canary Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Artificial

Marine Life in Canary Islands

Home to 80 recorded species including 50 reef fish, 9 whales & dolphins, 8 sharks & rays, 2 octopus & squid, 2 crabs & lobsters, 2 worms.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Artificial

Based on average water temperature of 21.5°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 21°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories