2023.5.14-19 | San Benedicto Island, Mexico
The typical Socorro dive excursion primarily focuses on exploring the Revillagigedo archipelago, which encompasses a quartet of islands. The farthest of these islands, named Clarion or Santa Rosa, is seldom frequented by most dive vessels. Consequently, the diving adventures primarily encompass three islands: San Benedicto, Socorro, and Roca Partida. San Benedicto, the closest to the mainland, serves as the starting and concluding points for our underwater expedition. Despite my limited prior knowledge of this island, it has remarkably become my favorite among the trio.
On this trip, I had my first encounter with a volcanic island, complete with all the quintessential geological features. Consulting Wikipedia, I discovered that San Benedicto boasts two prominent peaks. The loftiest of them, Bárcena, soars to an impressive height of 332 meters (1,089 feet) in the southern part of the island. It forms a classic volcanic crater known as Crater Bárcena. On either side of this primary crater, there are two older craters, but they pale in comparison to the grandeur of Crater Bárcena. Adding to the island’s distinctive charm is the striking black bluff created by solidified lava. Its charcoal-dark hue and finger-like structure provide a captivating contrast to the island’s main topography.
One of the reasons I hold a special fondness for this island is its ability to transport you back in time. San Benedicto Island’s most recent eruption occurred in 1952. As I gaze upon its untouched landscapes, I can’t help but wonder what it must have been like during those moments when dense plumes of smoke billowed from the depths of the Earth, molten lava cascaded down the crater’s slopes, and new rocks formed as lava met the ocean. No fresh water source exists on the island, and human habitation remains absent. San Benedicto Island has seemingly frozen in time.
Another compelling reason for my affection towards this island is the remarkable diversity of marine life I encountered beneath its azure waters. Sharks, mantas, dolphins, and schools of fish all coexist in this vibrant aquatic realm, ensuring that each dive remains a captivating and never-boring experience.
Upon returning, I finally had the opportunity to review my drone footage. Using some underwater clips that didn’t make it into the main video, I crafted a short film that showcases the island’s breathtaking vistas. The prominent feature in the video is none other than Crater Bárcena. My drone soared to a height of 1000 feet, affording a unique aerial perspective. It’s worth noting that both the journey’s first and last dives took place at San Benedicto Island. With our boat anchored at the same spot, venturing to the other end of the island proved too distant for my drone’s capabilities.
