El Morro, Puerto Vallarta: Pinnacles and Pelagic Encounters

El Morro is an exposed dive site located just outside the protection of Banderas Bay, defined by a series of volcanic pinnacles rising from the seabed. These formations begin their ascent as deep as 36.6 metres, offering a varied dive profile that caters to an experienced diver. The structure creates a natural magnet for marine life, acting as an oceanic outpost where both resident reef species and larger transient pelagics congregate, making each dive dynamic and unpredictable.

The dive often begins by descending onto the shallowest points of these pinnacles. You'll move through shafts of light filtering down, past rocky ledges covered with invertebrate life. There is a specific cave system to explore at 27 metres, an intricate feature within the granite rock. Inside, the walls are covered with gorgonian corals, various sponge species, and a dense population of crabs, shrimp, nudibranchs, and octopus, providing a stark contrast to the open water encounters outside.

Moving deeper, the pinnacles drop off into greater depths, forming substantial walls and overhangs. This deeper section is where the site's more transient visitors are commonly observed. Moray eels can be found in crevices, and around the edges of the structure, you might see schools of grunt and wrasse. This transition from macro-rich cave interiors to the expansive blue water around the deeper sections of the pinnacles is a defining feature of El Morro.

The exposure of El Morro means it often experiences stronger currents, a factor that contributes to the presence of larger pelagic species. These currents can shift, requiring attentive dive planning and execution. It's common to encounter large schools of jack, and you may spot turtles moving along the reef, particularly on the leeward sides of the pinnacles where the flow is less direct. This current also brings in nutrient-rich water, sustaining the diverse ecosystem.

Visibility at El Morro can range significantly, anywhere from 7 to 30 metres. This variability is often linked to oceanic conditions, but even on days with lower visibility, the sheer size of the pinnacles ensures there is always structure to navigate. The site's position outside the main bay means it regularly receives clear open ocean water, especially during stable weather periods, enhancing the chance of distant pelagic sightings.

Beyond the resident reef inhabitants like Moorish idols and various bass species, El Morro is also a known spot for encounters with larger ocean life. Oceanic manta rays, sailfish, and dolphins are regular visitors, especially when oceanic conditions are favourable. Large schools of tuna have been observed here, indicating the presence of abundant prey. Humpback whales are also seen in the area seasonally, typically between December and March, though encountering them underwater is less common but not beyond possibility.

The underwater topography creates an environment where vertical walls meet deep water, an ideal setup for attracting larger marine predators. Reef sharks are present, patrolling the deeper sections and around the base of the pinnacles. Seahorses are also occasionally found tucked away in the more sheltered areas, showcasing the blend of large scale and intricate detail within this environment.