El Bajo Seamount - Sea of Cortez

Joanne’s Sunchi on Klein Bonaire is a site we’ve always enjoyed, especially for its unique wall and sand chute combo. We drop in on a sloping reef that quickly gives way to a wall, and then those lovely sand ridges start, extending down beyond our recreational limits. It’s a fun topography to explore. Our favourite part here is drifting along, watching for the subtle creatures that call the wall home. We’ve had great luck spotting those tiny banded basslets tucked into crevices, and the red clingfish often camouflage themselves perfectly on the corals. Keep an eye out for Caribbean reef squid in the shallower sections, too; they’re always a treat to watch change colours. If you’re into macro and enjoy a slow, contemplative drift, Joanne’s Sunchi is a solid pick. It’s a mellow dive, usually with mild currents, making it suitable for divers who prefer to take their time and really soak in the details.

Location
Sea of Cortez, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
24.235573, -110.206350
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Balandra

Best Time to Dive in Sea of Cortez

The warmest water temperatures in Sea of Cortez occur in September, averaging 30.4°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 21.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 22.2°C
  • February: 21.1°C
  • March: 21.5°C
  • April: 22.6°C
  • May: 24.8°C
  • June: 27.1°C
  • July: 29.1°C
  • August: 30.1°C
  • September: 30.4°C
  • October: 29.8°C
  • November: 27.6°C
  • December: 25.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Sea of Cortez

Nearest Dive Centres to El Bajo Seamount

Marine Life in Sea of Cortez

Home to 197 recorded species including 172 reef fish, 14 whales & dolphins, 5 sharks & rays, 3 other, 1 sea cucumbers, 1 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for El Bajo Seamount

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 9 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories