Top Komodo Dive Sites for Beginners
Yes—beginners can dive Komodo! While the region is known for strong currents, there are several calm, shallow sites perfect for new divers or those gaining confidence.
Sebayur Kecil
Just a short hop from Labuan Bajo, Sebayur Kecil is a gentle slope adorned with vibrant coral gardens and swarming reef fish. The minimal current makes it a go-to for Open Water divers.
Turtle City
True to its name, Turtle City is a sanctuary for green and hawksbill turtles. With mild currents and an easy depth profile, it’s ideal for beginners wanting their first unforgettable underwater encounter.
Tips for New Divers in Komodo:
- Stick to guided dives with experienced instructors.
- Always review current conditions before diving.
- Choose a private Komodo liveaboard to control your dive schedule and site selection for optimal safety and comfort.
Best Intermediate Dive Sites in Komodo
For divers with a few more logged hours, Komodo opens up to slightly deeper and more dynamic sites that offer even richer biodiversity.
Castle Rock
Located in the northern part of the park, Castle Rock is a submerged pinnacle known for pelagic action. Expect swirls of jacks, barracuda, and even reef sharks. Intermediate divers can enjoy the action while staying within the safe range.
Crystal Rock
Just a short distance from Castle Rock, this site offers coral-covered slopes, vibrant anthias clouds, and occasional manta rays gliding through. The current can be moderate, but it’s manageable with proper briefing.
Advanced Dive Sites in Komodo for Thrill Seekers
For seasoned divers, Komodo diving becomes an exhilarating adventure, with some sites offering technical depth, wild currents, and unforgettable marine drama.
Batu Bolong
Batu Bolong is a legendary Komodo dive site, known for its stunning vertical reef that plunges into the depths. Expect to see swirling trevallies, turtles, Napoleon wrasse, and healthy coral systems. The site is highly current-dependent, making it best suited for advanced divers.
The Cauldron (a.k.a. Shotgun)
Located in the channel between Gili Lawa Laut and Gili Lawa Darat, the Cauldron earns its nickname from the powerful currents that funnel divers through a natural underwater chute. You’ll feel like you’ve been shot out of a cannon—hence, “Shotgun.”
The Passage
This high-adrenaline drift dive is a rollercoaster through narrow coral canyons. Due to complex currents and the need for fast decision-making underwater, it’s best reserved for experienced divers.
Advanced Diving Tips:
- Dive with nitrox if available to extend bottom time safely.
- Carry a reef hook for drift sites.
- Always dive with a local guide who understands current behavior.
