Los Chuchos, Tenerife: Rays and the Shipwreck Near Las Galletas

Los Chuchos is situated close to the southern town of Las Galletas, making it a readily accessible site. Upon descent, you will find yourself navigating gentle sandy slopes that transition into rocky edges. The dive profile here encourages a relaxed pace, allowing you to observe the marine life without rushing. This gentle topography is a primary reason the site suits a wide range of divers looking for consistent encounters.

A focal point of the dive is the small wreck, lying a few hundred metres from the bay's entrance. This structure acts as an artificial reef, concentrating marine activity in its vicinity. Around the wreck, you can expect to find a diverse community, including morays (Muraenidae spp.), octopi (Octopus vulgaris), cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis), and large swarms of eels. The wreck itself offers an interesting navigational element without requiring advanced penetration skills.

The site truly earns its name, 'Los Chuchos,' from the numerous ray (Rajidae, Dasyatidae, Myliobatidae, Gymnura spp.) sightings. These include stingrays (Dasyatis pastinaca), eagle rays (Myliobatis aquila), and butterfly rays (Gymnura altavela), often seen resting on the light sand. The interaction with these creatures is a defining feature of the dive, and understanding how to approach them calmly enhances the experience for both diver and marine life.

Beyond the rays, the sandy patches are home to bream (Sparidae spp.) and occasional barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) passing through. The rocky edges, while less dramatic than a sheer wall, provide refuge for a variety of macro life. Taking the time to examine these areas often reveals smaller, often overlooked species that add another layer of interest to the dive. Even angel sharks (Squatina squatina) are regularly observed here, particularly during the winter months.

Visibility at Los Chuchos is consistently good, often extending to 40 metres, which allows for clear observation of the expansive sand flats and the wreck. The site generally provides calm conditions, which contributes to its accessibility for many diver levels. This stable environment makes it an ideal location for photography and for divers who prefer a more tranquil underwater experience. The consistent good visibility enhances the pleasure of seeing the abundant resident fauna, bringing the details of the wreck and the sandy bottom into sharp focus.

The behaviour of the marine life at Los Chuchos is a key draw. The rays are accustomed to divers, allowing for close, respectful observation, but maintaining a calm and non-intrusive approach is critical for their well-being. This interaction, combined with the presence of larger species like barracuda and the occasional turtle (Chelonioidea spp.), makes each dive varied and engaging. It’s a site that rewards attentive diving, where subtle movements and patience often lead to the best encounters.