Seal Rocks 7th April 2013

Excellent weather / water conditions allowed us to dive Little and Big Seal Rocks in near perfect visibility. Our first dive was Little Rock, where we were disappointed to see three spearfishers within the sanctuary zone. "only looking" was their response to our questions. mmm, dubious. We anchored on the western ledge in 13m of water. A strong current saw the anchor drag all the way to the southern gutter, where we diligently ran our 100m transect, found one soft lure, then ran out of time/air due to the physical exertion required to make any headway in the current. The area was void of fish (who were off in the sheltered areas no doubt!) but I saw some nice nudibranchs, interesting benthic life, and the warm, clear water was most enjoyable.

Gorgonian Coral at Little Seal Rock.
We motored over to Big Rock, where we came upon another boat of spearos, who were also 'only looking'. What a pity the government has cut funding to Marine Parks. These people should be fined every time they enter a pink zone with fully rigged spear-guns. Nick jumped in while we had our interval, and tucked in behind the island, the current was no issue here. After a lengthy break, watching a large pod of common dolphins cruise by, a turtle pop up down in the current and sharks feeding on the surface, we jumped into the lovely (23deg) clear water, and landed in the gutter, where at least 50 grey nurse sharks loitered around their favorite overhang. Suzanne, Dana and I were thrilled to be circled by the resident loggerhead, who looked as though he was waiting for a treat. The clear water enabled us to take lots of great shark shots, many of which should be good for the boys at spot a shark. A wonderful dive left us all buzzing for many days to come.

Sharks hanging out in the 'cave'


Suzanne filming resident loggerhead and sharks at Big Seal Rock