Buceo Norte

Buceo Norte has been a fixture of the Gran Canaria diving scene since 2003. Situated in Gáldar, it holds the distinction of being the only centre authorised by the Canary Islands government in the north-west zone for both teaching and underwater sporting activities.

The centre operates with a philosophy of #BuceoConsciente, promoting a deep respect for the marine environment through every dive and course. This commitment to ecology is woven into their training and guided explorations, ensuring that divers leave with a better understanding of the delicate ecosystems they visit.

As an SSI Diamond centre, Buceo Norte maintains a high standard of instruction and safety. They are the first and only centre on Gran Canaria to employ an instructor of instructors, providing a level of expertise that is rare in the region.

Safety is a core priority, with the centre maintaining a specific safety and emergency plan for the north zone and a contract with a hyperbaric chamber. Guided dives are kept intimate, with a ratio of one guide for every six divers maximum, ensuring personalised attention on every outing.

The training programme is comprehensive, covering the entire SSI spectrum. Beginners can start with a Discover Scuba Diving experience or work through the Basic Diver, Open Water Diver, and Advanced Open Water Diver courses.

For those looking to specialise, the centre offers several SSI Specialty courses, including Nitrox, Deep, and Wreck diving. They also provide ecological training, such as Shark Ecology, Coral Identification, and Marine Ecology, alongside professional pathways for those aiming for Divemaster or Instructor levels.

The centre is equipped with a dedicated workshop for repairs and a modern rinsing and storage area for kit. Divers can access a Mares official boutique on-site, which allows for the testing of equipment before purchase.

For those who prefer not to travel with their own rig, a full range of equipment is available for hire. The facility also includes a soundproofed, armoured filling station to ensure the highest air quality for your cylinders.

The marine life in this area is exceptionally diverse, with many species congregating around the volcanic reefs and wrecks. You will frequently encounter angel sharks, stingrays, and various species of rays. Larger pelagics, including barracudas and tuna, are also part of the local ecosystem.

The reef structures are vibrant with life, featuring large sea anemones, various species of sponges, and colourful corals. Look out for moray eels, groupers, and parrotfish moving amongst the rocky outcrops and gorgonians.

For macro enthusiasts, the area offers plenty to discover, including nudibranchs, seahorses, and various crustaceans like spiny lobsters. You can also find frogfish, various species of shrimp, and many types of small invertebrates tucked into the crevices of the reef.

Night diving reveals a completely different side of the ecosystem. During nocturnal excursions, you may see Mediterranean moray eels, calamari, and a high level of activity from angel sharks and mantas.

Diving in the north-west of Gran Canaria involves a range of conditions depending on the specific site. While many sites in the Sardina area offer low to moderate currents, more advanced sites like El Arco del Cabrón or the wreck of the DC33 can experience medium to high currents.

The topography varies from shallow reef flats and sandy bottoms to deeper canyons and volcanic walls, allowing for a wide variety of dive profiles throughout the year.