This dive site, Veril de las Anclas, meaning 'Cliff of the Anchors', is a prominent rock shoal rising from a flat sandy seabed. It forms part of the larger Veril de las Agujas, or 'Cliff of Needles', a significant underwater feature that stretches for nearly a kilometer, crossing the channel known as El Río. This area is characterized by its dramatic topography, including sub-sites like Veril de las Langostas (Lobster Cliff) to the south and Cueva de los Jureles (Cave of the Kingfish) to the north, offering diverse underwater exploration.
The rich rocky environment and surrounding sandy areas support a wide array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter schooling kingfish in the cave areas, as well as numerous lobsters and other crustaceans sheltering within the cracks and crevices of the 'Lobster Cliff'. The site is also home to a variety of typical Canarian reef fish, octopuses, cuttlefish, moray eels, and vibrant nudibranchs, making it suitable for both wide-angle and macro photography.
The Canary Islands offer year-round diving, with Veril de las Anclas being consistently accessible. The moderate depths make it an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate divers, while the varied landscape and potential for interesting encounters appeal to advanced divers and photographers. Its suitability for freediving due to the 20m maximum depth and good visibility makes it a popular spot for breath-hold enthusiasts seeking diverse underwater environments. It's advisable to check local current conditions before diving, as they can be variable, particularly within El Río.
