La Pointe de la Croix, Port-Cros: a ridge dive with gorgonians

Diving La Pointe de la Croix starts with an orientation to a long rocky ridge, rising a few metres from the seabed. This formation is enveloped by Posidonia seagrass, which transitions to sand at the maximum depth of 30 metres. The initial descent is typically against the prevailing current, which often runs from east to west. This approach allows for a drift back towards the boat on the return leg of the dive, conserving energy and extending bottom time, especially when managing air consumption in a moving water column.

The distinctive feature of this site, differentiating it from similar topographies like Pointe de Montrémian, is the profusion of white gorgonians that colonize the ridge. These filter feeders indicate good current flow, bringing nutrients. As you follow the ridge down, keep an eye on the transition zone between the rock and the sand, as this area often holds different species. The current, while frequent, is a known factor here, and understanding its direction before your descent is key to a comfortable dive.

Beyond the main ridge, approximately 50 to 70 metres to the west, lies a second rocky formation. This can be reached either by navigating across rocky debris between 10 and 15 metres or by flying over the Posidonia meadow to the northwest. This secondary structure offers an extended exploration, potentially revealing different marine life that prefers a slightly more sheltered environment, or simply a change of scenery from the primary reef system.

The marine life at La Pointe de la Croix includes consistent sightings of groupers, sars, wrasses, damselfish, and moray eels. The presence of groupers is notable due to the site's proximity to La Gabinière, a renowned location known for these fish, suggesting that they often range between the two sites. Observing these resident species in their natural habitat requires controlled buoyancy, especially when holding position against the current or while exploring the nooks and crannies of the rocky structure.