reef

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Compass Rocks Sodwana Bay

Compass Rocks isn't some dramatic wreck you penetrate. Think of it more as a scattered graveyard of a past vessel, a low-profile scatter of steel plates and timbers that have become fully integrated into the reef. We love it for its unexpected character, a blend of natural rock and human history creating a fascinating landscape at just 16 metres. The site is essentially a series of coral-encrusted rocks and what we suspect are remnants of the wreck, surrounded by sandy patches. We’ve spent dives here just gliding over the sand, watching for the tell-tale disturbance of a ray buried just beneath the surface, or spotting the flash of a Big-eye trevally darting past. The structures themselves are home to a vibrant community of juvenile fish – we often see clouds of cardinalfish and tiny snappers schooling close to the shelter of the rocks. Keep an eye out for Pharaoh cuttlefish here too, they’re masters of camouflage against the mottled background. We’d suggest this dive for anyone who appreciates the subtle beauty of a reef in transition, where nature reclaims its space, and who enjoys a relaxed, unhurried exploration. It’s a great spot for photographers keen on macro subjects or capturing the interaction between the smaller species and their unique habitat.