Sea Fan Forest, Belle Mare: Dive into a Gorgonian Wonderland

Dropping into Sea Fan Forest, you immediately understand the site's name. From around 22 metres, large, ancient gorgonian sea fans begin to appear, their thick, gnarled trunks creating an intricate, almost impenetrable woodland. This is not a scattered collection; rather, it’s a veritable forest that demands exploration, inviting you to weave through its living structures while keeping an eye out for the marine life taking refuge amongst its branches.

The topography here is characterised by a central peak, around which the gorgonian forest flourishes. As you approach, you'll often be greeted by schools of green parrotfish, playing a perpetual game of hide-and-seek among the coral's deep recesses. This vibrant activity sets the tone for the dive, offering a sense of playful discovery as you slowly make your way deeper into the site, towards its maximum reported depth of 33 metres.

Within the protective embrace of the gorgonian forest, a rich diversity of reef fish finds sanctuary. Groupers lurk mysteriously behind the thick trunks, their watchful eyes following your progress. You'll encounter curious boxfish and pufferfish, often blending seamlessly with their surroundings until their sudden movements reveal their presence. Additionally, batfish, with their distinctive shapes, glide through the spaces between the sea fans, adding to the serene, yet lively, atmosphere of the peak.

Beyond the immediate reef, the open water surrounding Sea Fan Forest holds its own draws, particularly around the peak itself. Keep an eye on the blue for larger, more dynamic encounters. Schools of striped bonito are frequently observed, moving with purpose in coordinated formations. These fast-moving pelagics add an exciting element to the dive, providing a stark contrast to the more sedentary reef dwellers and showcasing the vibrant, animated nature of this dive site.