What to Expect: The Oil Rigs as Artificial Reefs

The oil rigs in Southern California, particularly Eureka, Ellen, and Elly located about eight miles off the coast of Long Beach, have become incredible artificial reefs. Beneath the surface, the steel supports are encrusted with marine growth, creating a colorful, vibrant ecosystem. Anemones, scallops, mussels, and soft corals cover the structure, attracting a wide variety of marine species. Schools of baitfish, sheepshead, and large predatory fish such as yellowtail and even sea bass can be found darting around the rigs.

The rigs provide layers of habitat at different depths, offering divers an array of marine life at every level. Closer to the surface, you’ll find sea lions playing and darting among the rig legs. At mid-levels, garibaldi, calico bass, and perch weave through the structure. At greater depths, larger fish and rays linger in the shadows, taking advantage of the complex environment.

Why Oil Rig Diving is So Unique

Oil rig diving combines aspects of both reef diving and wreck diving, yet it is unlike either. The rigs are open structures, which means there are no confined spaces like in a wreck dive, but divers are still surrounded by towering structures that create a sense of exploration. The vertical columns of the rigs give the dive a dramatic, almost otherworldly feel, especially when sunlight filters through the structure, casting shadows and illuminating the marine life.

Another unique aspect is the depth flexibility. The oil rigs reach down over 700 feet, though divers typically stay within recreational diving limits. With open waters surrounding the rigs, divers can descend to their preferred depth and explore both shallow and mid-water sections without the typical restrictions of bottom contours found in reefs.

Marine Life Encounters

The oil rigs are teeming with life, thanks to their position in nutrient-rich, open water and the variety of shelter provided by the steel structures. On a typical dive, you might encounter:

• Invertebrates: The structure is covered in colorful invertebrates, including sea anemones, barnacles, and nudibranchs, adding bursts of color to the otherwise industrial framework.
• Schooling Fish: Dense schools of sardines, mackerel, and blacksmith are common sights, swirling around the rig like a shimmering wall.
• Larger Fish: Yellowtail, calico bass, and sometimes even lingcod are drawn to the structure. The oil rigs are also frequented by giant sea bass, which may cruise through slowly, giving you a rare chance to see these gentle giants up close.
• Sea Lions: Playful and curious, sea lions often interact with divers, zipping around the structure and occasionally popping up right next to you for a closer look.
• Occasional Pelagics: The open ocean setting of the rigs means that you may see migratory species like sharks or even mola mola (ocean sunfish), especially in cooler months.

Diving Conditions and Challenges

While oil rig diving is incredibly rewarding, it’s best suited for advanced divers due to the unique conditions:

• Deep Water and Strong Currents: The rigs are situated in open water, where currents can be unpredictable and strong. Strong currents may make the dive challenging, especially for those who aren’t accustomed to diving in such conditions. Be prepared to adjust your dive plan based on the current and to ascend along the structure or a descent line.
• Open Ocean Entry and Exit: Unlike shore or even boat dives near shore, there’s no solid platform to stabilize yourself on for entry and exit. Many rig dives involve a “giant stride” entry from the boat, and divers must be able to manage their buoyancy immediately in open water. Exiting requires climbing a ladder back onto the boat, which can be challenging in rough conditions.
• Potential for Depth: While recreational divers stay within safe depth limits, the rigs are deep structures with no visible bottom, so good buoyancy control is essential. The deep, open water can create a sense of vertigo or even slight unease, so this dive isn’t recommended for beginners.

Recommended Gear for Rig Diving

Given the conditions, it’s important to bring suitable gear:

• Exposure Protection: Southern California waters can be chilly, especially at depth, so a 7mm wetsuit or a drysuit is recommended. Bare and Scubapro offer wetsuits and drysuits that are ideal for colder water, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the dive.
• Streamlined Setup: The oil rigs’ structure can sometimes entangle loose equipment, so it’s best to dive with a streamlined configuration. Gear from Atomic and Scubapro is well-suited for keeping things compact and efficient.
• Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): With strong currents and open water, an SMB is essential in case you need to alert the boat of your position during ascent or if you’re separated from the rig structure.
• Dive Light: Even on bright days, a dive light can help you see into shaded areas within the rig structure and spot hidden marine life.

Environmental Conservation and Responsibility

Diving the oil rigs is a privilege, and divers should respect this unique environment. The rigs serve as vibrant artificial reefs, providing essential habitats for marine species in Southern California’s waters. Avoid touching or disturbing marine life, and be mindful of the structures. Some of the rigs may eventually be decommissioned and removed, so enjoy this rare opportunity while it’s still accessible.

Join the Dive Club Community at Eco Dive Center

If you’re interested in diving the oil rigs or connecting with others who have experienced this amazing dive, consider joining us for our monthly Dive Club Night at Eco Dive Center. Held on the first Tuesday of each month, our Dive Club Night is a great place to hear from experienced speakers, connect with other divers, and swap stories about unique dive sites like the oil rigs.

Planning Your Oil Rig Dive

Diving the oil rigs in Southern California is a one-of-a-kind experience that offers the thrill of open water diving, the beauty of vibrant marine life, and the surreal setting of an industrial structure transformed into a reef. While it’s a challenging dive, those who venture out are rewarded with an unforgettable adventure, full of marine encounters and awe-inspiring views. So if you’re an advanced diver seeking a new challenge, grab your gear and click here to book your trip to experience the incredible world of California’s oil rigs! Hurry this trip tends to fill up fast!