潜点: Deception Island - Whaler's Bay

关于 Deception Island - Whaler's Bay

Deception Island, located in the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica, is an active submerged caldera volcano. The island's horseshoe shape, formed by erosion of the shield volcano, allows vessels to enter Port Foster through a gap known as Neptune's Bellows. Whalers Bay, a small harbor immediately northeast of Neptune's Bellows, holds significant historical importance as the site of the remains of the Norwegian Hektor Whaling Station and British 'Base B', active between 1944 and 1969. These remnants, including decaying water boats and other artifacts, represent a crucial part of Antarctic maritime history and are designated as Historic Site and Monument No. 71. The dive site itself features a gently sloping ash beach, approximately two kilometers long, stretching from Penfold Point to Cathedral Crags. The topography includes geothermal activity, with some scoria outcrops east of the whaling station and near Cathedral Crags supporting moss and lichen growth. Depths can reach up to 30 meters. Beneath the surface, divers might encounter a variety of marine life typical of Antarctic waters. Penguins such as Gentoo and Chinstrap are present, with Leopard, Crabeater, and Weddell seals often hauled out or offshore. Underwater, organisms like sea stars, nudibranchs, jellyfish, and sea anemones can be observed. The extremely cold water, often around 1-2 degrees Celsius, necessitates drysuit diving. Visibility is typically excellent, ranging from 10 to 30 meters. Because itineraries are flexible due to weather and ice conditions, specific dive sites are chosen daily by the expedition leader and ship's captain. Dives generally last between 15 and 30 minutes, emphasizing the need for robust cold-water drysuit experience. It is not uncommon to experience a mammalian diving reflex upon entry into the cold water, making familiarity with all gear essential for a safe and rewarding experience. This location is part of the Antarctic Treaty system and is a protected area.