Top 5 dive sites in Komodo National Park
Top Dive Sites in Komodo: A Guide to the Best Underwater Adventures
Komodo National Park is one of the most biodiverse marine environments on the planet. Its nutrient-rich currents support healthy coral reefs, massive schools of fish, and iconic megafauna such as manta rays and reef sharks. Below is your ultimate guide to the top dive sites in Komodo, complete with practical information on depth, currents, and best seasons to dive.
1. Batu Bolong – Komodo’s Underwater Pinnacle
Overview:
Batu Bolong, meaning “Hollow Rock,” is a dramatic pinnacle dive located in the central region of Komodo National Park. The site rises from deep water to just beneath the surface, forming a vertical coral-encrusted tower packed with marine life.
- Depth: 5–35m (15–115 ft)
- Current: Medium to strong; can be unpredictable and whirlpool-like
- Best Time to Dive: April to November (dry season)
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced (due to currents)
Marine Life Highlights:
White-tip and grey reef sharks, napoleon wrasse, turtles, moray eels, clouds of anthias and chromis, and pristine hard and soft corals.
Pro Tip:
Dive during slack tide to avoid strong down currents. Stay close to the reef and always follow your dive guide’s instructions.
2. Manta Point (Karang Makassar) – Dance with the Giants
Overview:
Karang Makassar, also known as Manta Point, is a long drift dive over a flat, sandy bottom dotted with coral bommies. It’s one of the most reliable sites in Komodo for manta ray encounters.
- Depth: 5–18m (16–60 ft)
- Current: Moderate to strong drift, depending on tide
- Best Time to Dive: December to March (manta season), but mantas can be seen year-round
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Marine Life Highlights:
Reef mantas, eagle rays, bumphead parrotfish, green turtles, and cleaning stations with cleaner wrasse and butterflyfish.
Pro Tip:
Find a bommie with active cleaning and stay still — the mantas will often circle around you. Ideal for photographers with wide-angle setups.
3. Castle Rock – Big Fish and Blue Water
Overview:
Castle Rock is a submerged seamount located north of Komodo Island. It sits in open water and is exposed to powerful currents, attracting large pelagic species.
- Depth: 15–40m (50–130 ft)
- Current: Strong to very strong; best dived during slack tide
- Best Time to Dive: April to November
- Skill Level: Advanced
Marine Life Highlights:
Giant trevallies, barracuda, white-tip and grey reef sharks, dogtooth tuna, and dense schools of fusiliers.
Pro Tip:
Use a reef hook and settle in at the top of the rock to watch the action. Descend quickly using a negative entry and stay alert to current changes.
4. Crystal Rock – Colour and Clarity
Overview:
Named for its excellent visibility, Crystal Rock is another northern seamount that breaks the surface at low tide. It’s known for its colourful coral coverage and pelagic encounters.
- Depth: 5–35m (15–115 ft)
- Current: Moderate to strong
- Best Time to Dive: April to November
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
Marine Life Highlights:
Soft coral slopes, reef sharks, dolphins, schooling snappers and sweetlips, pygmy seahorses, and cuttlefish.
Pro Tip:
Time your dive with the tide to avoid turbulence and make the most of the visibility. Excellent for both wide-angle and macro photography.
5. The Cauldron (Shotgun) – A Natural Drift Ride
Overview:
Located between Gili Lawa Laut and Gili Lawa Darat, The Cauldron is a thrilling site that ends in a narrow channel known as “The Shotgun,” where currents compress and speed up.
- Depth: 10–30m (33–100 ft)
- Current: Strong to very strong; classic Komodo drift dive
- Best Time to Dive: April to October (dry season, less surface chop)
- Skill Level: Advanced
Marine Life Highlights:
Reef sharks, manta rays, giant trevallies, sweetlips, and eagle rays. The sandy slope is also home to garden eels and stingrays.
Pro Tip:
Stay neutral and let the current carry you — but stay alert, especially near the Shotgun passage. Good buoyancy control is essential.
Bonus Section: Dive Conditions in Komodo
| Feature | Dry Season (Apr–Nov) | Wet Season (Dec–Mar) |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | 20–30m | 10–20m (reduced by plankton) |
| Water Temperature | 26–29°C | 24–27°C |
| Currents | Medium to strong | Stronger and more variable |
| Marine Highlights | Reef sharks, turtles, large fish | Manta rays, plankton feeders |
