Fortaleza · Brazil · Americas
Max. depth · 25 mThe Stone Of Sea, Fortaleza: diving a jagged offshore pinnacle
Descend onto The Stone Of Sea, an offshore rock pinnacle rising from 25 metres to within 1.5 metres of the surface, riddled with swim-throughs and home to various moray eels.
What makes this site special
- Offshore rock pinnacle with extensive topography
- Numerous swim-throughs and crevices to explore
- Frequent sightings of giant and green moray eels
- Presence of nurse sharks and grey reef sharks
- Caribbean reef octopuses in rocky hideaways
- Depths from 1.5 metres to 25 metres for diverse profiles
- Variable current attracting pelagic species on eastern face
The Stone Of Sea about the site
The Stone Of Sea, also sometimes referred to simply as Fortaleza, presents a distinctive dive profile off the coast. This site is defined by a massive rock pinnacle that ascends sharply from a maximum depth of 25 metres to a shallowest point of just 1.5 metres below the surface. This creates a striking underwater landscape, with the bulk of the formation offering varying depths and exposures.
As you approach The Stone Of Sea, you'll encounter a series of jagged rock formations, carved with numerous swim-throughs and crevices. These interconnected passages are a defining feature of the site, allowing for extensive exploration within the structure of the pinnacle. Additionally, there are wall-like sections and deeper cavities around the main formation, providing varied terrain for different parts of the dive.
Navigating the site involves exploring these intricate rock features. The eastern face of the pinnacle can experience current, which brings in nutrient-rich water. This flow attracts pelagic species, adding another dimension to the dive experience. While other parts of the reef are generally calmer, understanding the potential for current on the eastern side is key for planning your dive.
Among the crevices and ledges, you will frequently encounter moray eels, including the giant moray eel and green moray eel. Caribbean reef octopuses are also resident here, often seen tucked into the rocky hideaways. Nurse sharks are commonly observed, along with grey reef sharks, particularly where currents are more active. The site's broken topography offers abundant shelter and hunting grounds for these species.
Beyond the larger predators, the reef supports a healthy population of smaller marine life. You'll find blue tangs and sergeant majors schooling around the pinnacle, while parrotfish browse the rocky surfaces. Monk-perches are often spotted, and careful observation in the cracks can reveal nudibranchs. The deeper sections and surrounding areas are also visited by eagle rays and stingrays, adding to the diversity of encounters.
Diving The Stone Of Sea: the marine life you’ll meet
Diving conditions
The Stone Of Sea is accessible from Open Water Diver level, with depths ranging from 1.5 metres to 25 metres. Current can vary; the eastern face of the pinnacle is subject to stronger flow that attracts pelagic life, while other areas of the site tend to be calmer. Divers should be prepared for variable conditions, particularly when exploring different sections of the pinnacle.
