Pilot dive-site draft
La Rapadura
A demanding boat dive off Tenerife's north coast, known for deep drop-offs and large prismatic basalt formations.
What the dive is like
La Rapadura lies off the La Quinta area on Tenerife's north coast. The official guide describes a deep descent to prismatic basalt blocks, sponges, sea fans and damselfish, with a maximum depth of 45 metres.
A current Puerto de la Cruz operator reports an anchor depth of 18 metres and the same 45 metre maximum. The operator also markets the site as Atlantis, a name that can be confused with the separate La Atlántida site near Los Gigantes.
Experience and planning
The official source describes La Rapadura as demanding and dependent on suitable tide and current conditions. Any plan must reflect the selected route, recent deep-diving experience, gas, decompression exposure and the day's conditions. Some profiles may extend beyond ordinary recreational limits.
A local operator describes routes for a wider range of divers, but that does not override the official high-difficulty classification. MolaQuest therefore uses advanced guidance and requires route-specific assessment.
Map
Find La Rapadura
Pins use geographic coordinates, so they remain attached to the same location as the map moves or zooms. Select a labelled pin to open its page.
Marine life
What you may encounter
- Sponges
- Sea fans
- Canary damselfish
Sightings vary by site, season and conditions; none are guaranteed.
Practical notes
Plan the dive properly
- Confirm the route, planned maximum depth, current and descent procedure before departure.
- Treat 45 metres as a possible site maximum, not a recommended depth.
- The coordinate is an approximate site-centre position and must not be used for navigation.
- The hero image is illustrative and does not depict La Rapadura.