Komodo Island may be famous for its giant monitor lizards, but their waters are also excellent for diving activities. The surrounding waters have an impeccable coral reef and abundant marine life to satisfy any diving enthusiast. Worth noting, however, is the slightly challenging hydrology conditions of the waters in Komodo Island. But don’t let that intimidate you! As long as you’re with one of our PADI certified Divemasters, you’re in good hands.
Here are some of the popular dive sites to put on your list!
Manta Alley
Manta Alley is probably the most popular and famous dive site in these waters – and for a good reason! Divers have a high encounter chance with the majestic Manta Rays in this diving spot. Other marine creatures include big Parrot Fish and schools of Barracuda. The best depths to aim for range from 10 meters to 30 meters. As we prefaced above, waters in the Komodo Islands are challenging, with strong currents and colder water temperatures – including Manta Alley.
Yellow Wall
Located off the southern tip of Rinca Island, Yellow Wall is another excellent dive site. Yellow Wall gets its name from the many vibrant Sea Cucumbers and Feather Stars that can be encountered on this dive site. If you’re into underwater photography, this is a site you don’t want to miss! Other notable pelagic marine life that occasionally visits this dive site include sharks and turtles.
Manta Point (Makassar Reef)
On the Northeastern side of Komodo Island is another Manta-friendly dive site, namely Manta Point. A unique feature of this dive site is that Manta Rays come to the corals here to get their bodies cleaned by smaller fish and critters. Depending on the season, divers may see up to 5 or 10 Manta Rays that are all getting cleaned! All you need to do is sit back and watch!
Batu Bolong
Batu Bolong is another signature dive site in the Komodo Islands. The name is a direct translation from Bahasa Indonesia that means Hollow Rock. This refers to the small rock that marks the location of this dive site between Komodo and Tatawa. The reef here is in immaculate and superb condition, with lots of sponges and an abundance of small critters that have claimed them as their home. The volume of fish you encounter is incredible, from deepwater fishes to shallower dwelling species. To name just a few marine animals you may see Napoleon Wrasse, White Tip Sharks, Big Tuna and other densely packed schools of fish. This is one dive site that is a must-visit!
We hope this article has given you some ideas on which dive site you want to aim for when visiting the Komodo Islands!
Are you planning a dive to Komodo Islands? Reach out to us at Aqura Dive, and our PADI certified Divemasters will be more than happy to show you around and keep you safe while you marvel at the impeccable dive sites in Komodo!
