What lies beneath: Diver captures stunning images of the wildlife lurking in the shadow of a 650ft rock which is almost totally underwater
The mysterious underwater ecosystem surrounding a 650 foot underwater rock in the Pacific ocean has been captured by Swiss adventure photographer Franco Banfi.
The massive ‘Dirty Rock’ is found just off the coast of the Revillagigedo Islands, near Mexico.
From the surface of the ocean, the white tip of the massive rock is barely discernible – but Banfi’s photos reveal the host of underwater creatures that call the rock home.
A Geographical Marvel
Dirty Rock is a prominent underwater rock formation situated off the coast of Cocos Island, Costa Rica. Cocos Island itself is located approximately 550 kilometers southwest of mainland Costa Rica, and it is part of a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is renowned for its rich biodiversity both above and below water, and Dirty Rock stands out as one of the premier dive sites in this marine paradise.
The Allure of Dirty Rock
Dirty Rock rises dramatically from the ocean floor, creating a vertical wall that plunges to depths of over 100 feet. This rock formation is characterized by its rugged, jagged appearance, which provides a multitude of crevices and overhangs that serve as habitats for a diverse array of marine life. The site is aptly named for its somewhat rough and unrefined appearance, which contrasts beautifully with the vibrant marine life it supports.
A Diver’s Paradise
For avid divers, Dirty Rock is a bucket-list destination. The site offers a unique combination of challenging conditions and rewarding experiences. Strong currents are common around Dirty Rock, which can make for an exhilarating dive but also require divers to have good buoyancy control and experience with drift diving.
The visibility at Dirty Rock is typically excellent, often exceeding 80 feet, which allows divers to fully appreciate the underwater scenery. The clear waters reveal a kaleidoscope of colors, with schools of tropical fish darting around the rock and large pelagic species cruising by.
Marine Biodiversity
One of the main attractions of Dirty Rock is the incredible biodiversity it hosts. The rock formation is a magnet for marine life, from small reef inhabitants to large ocean wanderers. Divers frequently encounter large schools of hammerhead sharks, which are one of the most iconic species in the region. These majestic creatures are often seen patrolling the waters around Dirty Rock, and encounters with them are a highlight for many divers.
They include bottlenose dolphins, vibrant trumpet fish, and schools of hammerhead sharks.
Banfi, 57, first discovered the rock, which measures 160 feet wide, on a diving cruise 10 years ago.
He said: ‘The place is still magical just like it was when I first visited ten years ago.’
In addition to hammerhead sharks, divers can also spot white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, and manta rays. The crevices and overhangs of Dirty Rock provide hiding spots for moray eels, lobsters, and various species of octopus. The vibrant coral and sponge communities add to the colorful spectacle, creating a stunning underwater tapestry.
Diving the epic “Dirty Rock” in Cocos Island
Conservation Efforts
Cocos Island and its surrounding waters, including Dirty Rock, are protected as part of the Cocos Island National Park. This designation helps to preserve the unique marine ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. The park is a no-take zone, meaning that fishing and other extractive activities are prohibited, which helps to maintain the health and abundance of marine life.
Conservation organizations and researchers conduct regular monitoring and studies in the area to better understand the ecology of Cocos Island and its underwater formations. These efforts are crucial for ensuring the long-term protection of this unique marine environment and the species that depend on it.
“Dirty Rock attracts many animals because it is in the middle of the Pacific, far from the coast,” explained Cardo, a native of Switzerland. He mentioned that the rock is not accessible by regular boat, so adventurous explorers can only visit when the weather is good.
“Some creatures were just swimming around, some were hunting and would come close to the rock before going away again, and others were curious about us,” he said.
“The animals are not afraid of the divers, so they get quite close.”
Accessibility and Diving Logistics
Reaching Dirty Rock and Cocos Island requires some planning and effort, as the island is remote and accessible only by boat. Most divers visit as part of a liveaboard dive trip, which allows for multiple days of diving and exploration. Liveaboard vessels depart from Puntarenas, Costa Rica, and the journey to Cocos Island takes approximately 36 hours.
Liveaboard trips to Cocos Island typically last 7-10 days, providing ample time to explore not only Dirty Rock but also other famous dive sites around the island, such as Manuelita Island, Alcyone, and Bajo Alcyone. These trips are well-organized, with experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local marine life and diving conditions.
Personal Accounts and Experiences
Many divers who have experienced Dirty Rock describe it as one of the most memorable and awe-inspiring dives of their lives. The combination of dramatic underwater topography, abundant marine life, and the thrill of encountering large pelagic species creates an unforgettable experience.
One diver, Maria Lopez, shared her experience: “Diving at Dirty Rock was like entering another world. The visibility was incredible, and the sheer number of hammerhead sharks was astonishing. It was both exhilarating and humbling to be in the presence of such majestic creatures.”
Practical Tips for Divers
For those planning a trip to Dirty Rock, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind:
- Experience Level: Due to the strong currents and the depth of the dives, it is recommended that divers have advanced open water certification and experience with drift diving.
- Equipment: Bring a good quality dive computer, as the depths can be significant, and a reef hook can be useful for staying in place in strong currents.
- Physical Fitness: The dives at Dirty Rock can be physically demanding, so maintaining good physical fitness is important.
- Respect for Marine Life: As with all dive sites, it is crucial to respect the marine environment and the creatures that inhabit it. Avoid touching or disturbing the wildlife and practice good buoyancy control to protect the delicate coral and sponge communities.
Conclusion
Dirty Rock, off the coast of Cocos Island in Costa Rica, stands as a testament to the wonders of our planet’s underwater realms. Its rugged beauty, combined with the rich biodiversity it supports, makes it a must-visit destination for divers and marine enthusiasts. As we continue to explore and appreciate these natural marvels, it is also our responsibility to protect and preserve them for future generations. Whether you are an experienced diver or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the ocean, Dirty Rock is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
