A snorkelling mask is a must on every Mediterranean holiday, but very seldom one sees a tourist on the Canary Islands coming out of the water with that typical imprint on his face, coming from his mask. Although the Atlantic Ocean is the “Mother of the Mediterranean” and thus the fauna and flora are quite similar, at least for the moderate latitudes.

Therefore one should not be surprised to be welcomed during his snorkelling trip by two small but of the most colourful representatives of the local fish community: the Ornate Wrasse and the Rainbow Wrasse. If you have some bread available, then you might get friends for life. And their colours might let you forget the Caribbean. When you allow yourself to float around and to enjoy the reflection of the sunlight on the bottom, you may discover some of the other inhabitants of the coastal waters: Groupers, snails, crabs, anemones and even coral. And with some luck you may be observed from a safe distance by a Sepia.

It is better not to snorkel at the sandy beaches as the marine life there is mostly happening in the sand and thus not visible to us. It is better to go where the sandy beach touches the rock and where life is abundant. But be aware of the sea urchins as you might get thrown onto them by the waves. And their stings can hurt.

Stay close to the shore anyhow, just for your own safety and use fins to allow you to come to shore quickly and easily when the current is increasing. It is advisable to buy a short neoprene jacket. Not only will it protect you from cooling off and sun burn, but it also improves your buoyancy.

Or, even better, go to a diving- or snorkelling centre where you get all the material, instructions, guidance to the best places and explanation about local marine life. And, don’t forget, it’s more fun in a group…

Dr. A. Lüdeking

Michel