We will give you all the information you need to know to dive with Sea Turtles in Gran Canaria.
At GO DIVING, we’re lucky to call the waters around Gran Canaria our dive playground. Located in Maspalomas, we spend our days exploring the waters of the island’s southern coast, right in the best spot for seeing the island’s most exciting marine life. This got us thinking about the amazing things we see and that our clients get to dive with. Just the other day, one of our lucky clients filmed an incredible close encounter with a green sea turtle. It reminded us of how often we’re asked, “Can you dive with turtles in Gran Canaria?” So, we thought we’d share a little about these amazing animals—and the video—with you right here.
We’re fortunate to spend our time diving right here in Maspalomas, in the sea turtles’ backyard.
The warm water and relaxed conditions of Gran Canaria make it one of Europe’s best places to see sea turtles, right here in Maspalomas. We love all the marine species we see, from angel sharks to hammerhead sharks. Hands down, the majestic sea turtle is one of our absolute favourites. There’s something unforgettable about the grace of these creatures as they glide effortlessly through the water.
Sea turtles have become something of a favourite for our clients aboard our floating dive center and dive boat “Atlantis”. Located in the heart of the south of Gran Canaria, we’re lucky to be positioned right in the center of some of the sea turtles’ favourite feeding spots. Not only are they breathtaking to observe, but they also remind us why we’re so passionate about protecting our marine environment. With our dive boat based in Maspalomas, we’re in the perfect position to encounter these incredible reptiles regularly—and we can’t wait to share a little of that magic with you. So read on and discover more.
The Sea Turtles of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is home to five species of sea turtles, but the most commonly seen species in our waters are the:
loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta). .
Green turtle (Chelonia mydas).
hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata).
leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea).
Each species has its own unique charm, but they all share one thing: they’re a rare privilege to encounter in their natural habitat.
Why Are Sea Turtles Drawn to Maspalomas?
Maspalomas offers an ideal environment for sea turtles. The warm, nutrient-rich waters along Gran Canaria’s southern coast are a haven for marine life, and the seagrass beds in particular provide a vital feeding ground for these gentle giants.
As turtles graze on the seagrass, they play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s delicate balance. This is just one of the many reasons we’re so committed to protecting these habitats and ensuring future generations of divers can enjoy the same incredible encounters.
With our dive boat operating out of Maspalomas, we’re fortunate to see sea turtles more often than most. These frequent sightings are one of the reasons divers keep coming back to us. It’s not just about the thrill of the dive—it’s also about the chance to connect with these remarkable animals.
“Before you read any further, check out this amazing video our new friends filmed just last week at one of our favourite dive sites”.
Amazing video of Green Sea Turtle in Gran Canaria
How to Dive with Sea Turtles in Gran Canaria?
Diving with sea turtles is a magical experience and one of the most sought-after adventures for divers visiting Gran Canaria. If you’re dreaming of encountering these graceful creatures in their natural habitat, here’s what you need to know to make it happen:
1. Choose the Right Dive Center
When it comes to diving with turtles, your choice of dive center matters. Look for a center with a proven track record of frequent sea turtle sightings and in-depth knowledge of their habits and favorite spots. Also you will need a dive boat as the major turtle dive locations are not accessible to the shore.
At GO DIVING, we pride ourselves on our experience and location. Based in Maspalomas, our dive boat “Atlantis” is perfectly positioned to access the south coast’s best turtle hotspots. Thanks to years of exploring these waters, we’ve learned where turtles like to feed, rest, and swim—and we can take you straight to those secret spots (conditions and expirence depending)
2. Dive in Turtle-Friendly Locations
Sea turtles in Gran Canaria are most often found in areas with seagrass beds and calm, nutrient-rich waters. These locations provide the perfect feeding grounds for species like the loggerhead turtle and green turtle.
The southern coast, particularly around Maspalomas, is known for its warm, clear waters and an abundance of marine life, making it the ideal spot for turtle encounters. At GO DIVING, we’ve discovered a few “hidden gems” where turtles are more likely to be seen. While no sightings are ever guaranteed, our local expertise significantly increases your chances of an unforgettable encounter.
3. Act Responsibly Around Sea Turtles
Seeing a sea turtle underwater is exciting, but it’s important to remember that these are wild animals, and our actions can impact their behavior. Here are a few key guidelines to follow:
• Maintain a respectful distance: Turtles may be curious and swim closer to you, but avoid approaching or chasing them.
• Avoid touching them: Their shells are sensitive and covered in a protective layer. Touching them can cause stress or harm to you both.
• Stay calm and quiet: Sudden movements or loud noises can scare them away (see the video above).
• Respect their environment: Be mindful of your buoyancy and avoid disturbing the seabed or seagrass beds they feed on.
By following these guidelines, you’ll not only protect the turtles but also have a more rewarding and natural encounter.
While diving with sea turtles is an unforgettable experience, it also serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect their environment. Whether it’s by organising underwater clean-ups, supporting sustainable tourism, or simply respecting the creatures we encounter, we can all play a part in keeping Gran Canaria’s waters thriving.
If you’re ready to experience the magic of diving with sea turtles, GO DIVING is the place to start. Join us for an unforgettable journey under the waves, and who knows? You might just find yourself face-to-face with one of these extraordinary creatures.
Ready to see the amazing Sea Turtles? Let’s make it happen, BOOK TODY.
Thank you for reading
GO DIVING
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