ECO PRO continued other planets. Divers explore only the top sliver of a planet shaped by billions of years of upheaval. The same tectonic forces that formed the Himalayas also created underwater ridges, trenches, and island chains. Mount Everest, Earth’s tallest peak, would be swallowed whole by the Challenger Deep – the ocean’s deepest point. (By the way, when measuring from its subsea base to peak, Mauna Kea in Hawaii at 6,800’ /2,072m is taller than Everest.) And yet, all are products of the same planetary engine. Few humans have been to the Mariana Trench, but all benefit from the processes that keep Earth's oceans vibrant and oxygenated. Even the calcium carbonate (limestone) in coral reefs originates from geolog- ical processes stretching back to Earth’s formative years. For recreational divers, understanding Earth’s dynamic in- terior connects every dive to a larger story. When you swim
over a coral reef in Bonaire, explore volcanic walls in Hawaii, or hover above the Silfra fissure, you witness geology in ac- tion. It’s not just rocks – it’s the living legacy of a planet con- stantly reshaping itself. This awareness fosters a deeper appreciation – and hopefully, a greater sense of responsibil- ity. After all, the ocean isn’t just a playground. It’s the ever- changing surface of a planet that has labored for billions of years to make life, and diving, possible. Whether you're strapping on fins in a cenote, volcanic crater lake, or ocean trench, remember: you're not just diving beneath the sea. You're diving into Earth's story.
[Editor’s note: This article is a brief synopsis of Chapter One: Earth’s Ocean from the au- thor’s recent book, Beneath the Blue Planet: A Diver’s Guide to the Ocean .]
Alex’s links
Dive into Earth's Living Geology: The Strýtan Vent Field Tucked into Iceland’s Eyjafjörður fjord lies Strýtan, a shallow window into deep time and one of the most extraordinary ge- ological dive sites on Earth. It’s the only known shallow-water hydrothermal vent field in the world that is actively venting in seawater and accessible to recreational divers. Located at depths between 50 and 230 feet/16 and 70 meters, Strýtan features cone-shaped chimneys formed from mineral-rich geothermal water seeping from the ocean floor. Unlike the scalding black smokers found at great depths, these vents release hot freshwater (165°F/75°C) that interacts with the surrounding cold sea- water, precipitating magnesium silicate and forming towering white spires up to 180 feet/55 meters tall. Strýtan isn’t just rare because of its depth. It’s a unique geochemical environment that releases alkaline fluids rather than the acidic ones typical of deep-sea vents. This makes it more chemically similar to ancient Earth and even to potential extra- terrestrial vent systems, like those theorized beneath Europa's ice crust (making them of great interest to the new field of as- trobiology). Divers exploring Strýtan are, in essence, swimming through a time capsule, witnessing geochemical processes that resemble the conditions believed to have supported the origins of life – and perhaps not just here on Earth. For divers, Strýtan offers more than stunning visuals – it’s a lesson in Earth’s dynamic geology. The site has helped sci- entists study how hydrothermal systems operate in shallower, basaltic environments, which may be critical for understanding biogeochemical cycles and life’s resilience in extreme conditions. Unlike most vent fields hidden miles beneath the surface, Strýtan makes one of geology's most spectacular phenomena accessible – no submersible needed. Visiting Strýtan is more than a dive; it’s a journey into the living history of the planet. Few places on Earth combine geology, biology, and adventure as seamlessly in a single dive. Due to its scientific value and fragility, diving at Strýtan is regulated. Local operators (notably Strytan Dive Center https://www.strytan.is) work closely with marine researchers to ensure sustainable access. What Divers Can Expect Location : Eyjafjörður, near Akureyri, northern ▪ Iceland Depth range : 16–70 meters (50–230 feet) ▪ Key features : Towering chimneys, rich microbial ▪ mats, and unusual marine life Marine life : Cod, wolf fish, jellyfish, nudi- ▪ branchs, sponges, and unique crustaceans Water conditions : Cold (35-43°F/2–6°C), with ▪ thermoclines near vent plumes Know Before You Go Training : Advanced or technical dive certifica- ▪ tions recommended Temperature : Dry suit diving required ▪ Permits : Diving must be arranged through li- ▪ censed local operators Best season : Late spring through early fall for ▪ best visibility and condition
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