September 29th and 30th: Wreck Alley, San Diego California

Did two dives on the Yukon on Saturday, one on Sunday, and one dive on
the El Rey.  Max Depth 101; avearge Depth 85FSW.  Water Temp:  Bone
Chilling 52' Suunto.  Viz:  30-40'  Better on Saturday than on Sunday.

(101' 40" 52'; 101' 35" 52'; 97' 32" 54'; 88' 37" 54')
   
  Lots of life on the Yukon including many Hermissenda crassicornis,
Spanish Shawl's, White Spotted Dorid's, and Clown Dorids all at about 85
FSW at the flat side of the stern; giant Metridium's all over; several
varieties of aneome's; Surf Pearch, Sheep Head, Black Eyed Goby's along
with schooling Jack Mackeral's and Blacksmith were also noted.  Oh,
and I might add, healthy kelp is growing along topside of the ship!
  Soon, there will be a nice little kelp forest.
  
  My third dive, I concentrated on penetrating the wreck in which I
explored the third level from stern to bow exiting out one of the dolphin
cut-outs.  I didn't spend too much time exploring, for the cold
temperatures were catching up to me.  Guess it's almost time to retire my
wetsuit!  Ugh...
  
  We were to dive the Ruby E, however, 3 boats were already anchored on
her, so we decided to head to the El Rey.  Average Depth:  85' FSW.
  Not much left, penetration not advisable, so I just explored the
outside.  I wasn't disappointed, for I was entertained by a large Lincod, a
HUGE Cabezon, and a **NEW** critter I hadn't seen before:  Stripedfin
Ronquil.  The Ronquil was the highlight of my dive, for he loved to pose
for photo's, even though he was a tad skittish at first.  My NDL gave
out before I was ready to come up, but with my computer screaming at me,
and the chilly water, I obeyed.  I bid ado to my new found friend and
away up the anchor chain I ascended to complete another fine weekend of
diving!
  
  Jan

7:23 PM - 9/30/2007 - post comment