

Best for advanced divers, 12-40m, boat entry, strong current.
Oil Rigs Elly-Ellen are two offshore oil platforms located 13 kilometres from shore near Avalon. These artificial reef structures feature a complex network of legs and crossbeams reaching depths of 12 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres. This advanced site requires boat access and presents significant challenges, including strong currents, heavy surge, and an overhead environment. Visibility is highly variable, ranging from 3 to 30 metres. Water temperatures remain between 14 and 17 degrees Celsius, with thermoclines common at depth. Divers must manage risks associated with deep diving, nitrogen narcosis, and frequent vessel traffic. A drysuit or thick wetsuit is essential for these conditions.
33.58353, -118.12942
Plan your dive around slack current if at all possible, as the structure can generate unpredictable flow that compounds quickly with surge and swell. Confirm current charter operator protocols before booking, as facilities and access arrangements change and are best verified locally.
Live-boating is essential as anchoring is impractical and tying off to the rig is prohibited.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-40m
Visibility
3-30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
14-17°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Year-round
No, this is an advanced site due to strong currents, surge, deep water, and the overhead environment created by the platform structure.
The site reaches depths between 12 and 40 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres.
This is a boat-only dive located 13 kilometres from shore. Divers must enter the water from a boat and remain aware of vessel traffic.
Hazards include strong currents, heavy surge, cold water, boat traffic, and the risks associated with deep diving and the overhead environment of the rig structure.
Diving at Oil Rigs Elly-Ellen in Long Beach requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Oil Rigs Elly-Ellen in Long Beach. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 17°C.
The best months to visit Oil Rigs Elly-Ellen in Long Beach are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Oil Rigs Elly-Ellen in Long Beach can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Oil Rigs Elly-Ellen in Long Beach typically ranges from 3 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.