Booroo Rock, Isle of Man: Diving the Drinking Dragon Reef

Diving Booroo, or The Drinking Dragon as it's often called, places you at the exposed southern tip of the Calf of Man. The site begins in kelp-covered shallows around 5 metres, a good reference point for the initial descent. From there, the southern flank of the rock drops into distinct underwater cliffs, about 15 metres high, before transitioning into a rocky incline that continues into deeper water.

As you move away from the cliff face, the terrain becomes a complex network of large bedrock mounds and scattered boulders. This creates a natural maze of gullies and crevices, offering plenty of exploration opportunities. The bottom slopes steadily downwards, reaching depths in the 40-metre range to the south and west, where the light begins to dim and the environment shifts.

Life here is dense and vibrant. Almost every rocky surface is heavily encrusted, forming a rich tapestry of marine growth. You'll find a profusion of hydroids, including oaten-pipe hydroids, alongside a colourful display of soft corals such as dead man's fingers. Sponges and various anemones like plumose, dahlia, and jewel anemones carpet the rock, indicating strong nutrient flow.

The resident fauna is equally prolific, with a range of crustaceans and fish making the Booroo their home. Look for scallops, crabs, and lobsters tucked into the crevices, while conger eels often inhabit the larger holes. Tompot blennies peer out from their perches, and you might spot velvet swimming crabs scuttling across the seabed. Nudibranchs, often overlooked, are present for those with a keen eye.

Fish life is abundant, with frequent shoals of pollack swirling around the rock formations. Cod and coalfish are also common, along with mackerel in season. Wrasses, including the ballan wrasse, can be seen foraging among the kelp and rocks. Keep an eye out for bottom dwellers like bull huss and lesser spotted dogfish resting on the sand or in sheltered spots.

A highlight of diving Booroo is the chance to encounter grey seals. These curious mammals are known to visit the site, often approaching divers. Their presence adds another layer to the experience, making each dive unique. The combination of dense marine growth and frequent seal encounters contributes to the site’s reputation as one of the most biologically rich and visually engaging locations around the Calf of Man.

The exposed position of Booroo means that conditions can vary, particularly with tidal currents. While the site offers an incredibly rich and dynamic dive, understanding the local current patterns is essential. This interplay of strong water flow and varied topography creates a continuously changing environment for both marine life and divers.