Rocky Point – East Coast

25m Max

15-35m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Rocky Point features dramatic granite boulder formations along the East Coast creating an underwater landscape of massive rounded rocks, deep crevices, and sheltered passages that support diverse marine communities. The boulder field extends from five to twenty-five metres depth with each formation creating unique habitats from sun-exposed upper surfaces covered in colourful soft corals to shaded crevices sheltering large moray eels and hunting lionfish. The complex three-dimensional structure of the boulder field provides endless exploration opportunities as divers weave between the massive rocks discovering new passages and marine life communities at every turn. Hunting trevally patrol the open water between boulders while groupers occupy the larger crevices and overhangs with territorial confidence. Octopus are frequently encountered moving between the rocks in search of prey displaying their remarkable camouflage abilities against the granite surfaces. The surge around the boulders creates a dynamic diving environment where the water movement brings nutrients that support dense populations of filter-feeding organisms including soft corals, sponges, and sea fans on the exposed rock surfaces. The combination of geological interest, diverse marine life, and the exploratory nature of navigating the boulder field makes Rocky Point a rewarding intermediate dive site that offers a different experience from the wall and reef diving found elsewhere on Christmas Island.

Dive Briefing

"Descend from the boat to the upper boulder field at approximately eight to ten metres where the first massive granite formations create dramatic underwater scenery. Swim through the passages between boulders following the natural channels that connect different sections of the formation. Check each crevice and overhang for moray eels and lionfish while scanning the open water between boulders for hunting trevally and patrolling groupers. The upper surfaces of the boulders support diverse soft coral and sponge communities that are particularly photogenic in the filtered light. Explore the deeper sections of the boulder field at fifteen to twenty-five metres where larger formations create more dramatic passages and the marine life becomes increasingly diverse with larger species occupying the deeper crevices. Octopus are frequently encountered on the rock surfaces where their camouflage abilities make them challenging but rewarding subjects for observation and photography. The passages between boulders can be narrow so maintain good buoyancy and awareness of your surroundings. Complete your safety stop on the shallower boulders where colourful soft corals and diverse fish communities provide interesting observation subjects."