Undersea Garden
Diving in Sai Kung
The rocky reefs and coral communities of Hong Kong shelter a diverse and exquisite range of fish and marine fauna. Over 300 species of reef fish and 80 species of corals (hard & soft) have so far been recorded.
HK corals colonies are usually found attached to boulders and exposed bedrock forming small and fragile communities along the east coast rocky shoreline.
Most corals grow between -1 to -3 m deep and they rarely extend to depths of greater than -10m. Neither do they form intertidal colonies because of the cold temperature range found in the winter months.
The richest coral communities are located on the east of Hong Kong, away from the influence of the Pearl River Estuary. Sai Kung has the cleanest and most diversified waters in Hong Kong. Underwater visibility does vary and is subject to prevailing wind and tide conditions. Depths also vary from shallow 5-10m dives, to deep 20-30m dives.
Look for reef building stony corals, soft corals and gorgonians and, depending on the season, a plethora of fish can be seen hiding amongst the coral communities. They range from butterfly fish to rays, from moray eels to groupers. There are also artificial reefs and offshore islands to dive on. Small coral communities can also be found along the eastern coastline, which make ideal snorkeling spots. Occasionally seahorses and octopus are also seen. There is no need to fear sharks, they are extremely rare.
The key to understanding and enjoying HK diving is to be patient and swim slowly; looking in all the cracks and crevices. A lot of the marine life (a majority of it in the juvenile stage) likes to hide from bigger predators. So keep your eyes open and think small and you will be astonished as to what you might find.
Further Information:
HK Outdoors offers invaluable information on HK's flora and fauna - both land and sea.
Who to Contact:
Asiatic Marine - offers diving, snorkelling, and fishing "seafaries" for the marine adventurer
Splash Hong Kong - diving instruction and guides
Acknowledgement
Explore Sai Kung would like to thank C. Frew, Asiatic Marine Limited, for the contents of the above article and the accompanying pictures, both taken right in Sai Kung district.
