This dive site, known as 9 EL ARRECIFE (The Reef), despite its name, is not a coral reef but a vibrant Posidonia oceanica meadow interspersed with rocky formations. It is exceptionally well-suited for dive initiations and refreshing skills, offering a gentle and luminous underwater experience. Divers typically follow a route through the meadows and rocks, culminating in the discovery of a small cave towards the end of the exploration. There is no specific historical information provided, but its suitability for beginners suggests it's a popular training and leisure spot for local dive centers.
The site is teeming with marine life, particularly notable for its abundant schools of fry that gracefully swim among the Posidonia meadows and rocky outcrops. These seagrass beds are vital ecosystems, providing shelter and food for various small fish species, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. While large pelagic species are not explicitly mentioned, the overall environment supports a healthy population of typical Mediterranean reef fish.
The best time to visit this dive site is when the conditions offer the celebrated "extraordinary light," which enhances the beauty of the Posidonia meadows and the vibrant schools of fry. It is highly recommended for first-time divers, those looking to refresh their skills, and non-diving companions who can enjoy the shallow, well-lit environment. Freedivers will also find it appealing due to its manageable depths and interesting topography, including the cave. Divers should focus on appreciating the macro life and the unique ecosystem of the Posidonia meadows.
