Dive sites in Raja Ampat

Top Dive Sites

Blue Magic

Description: Nestled in the heart of Raja Ampat, Blue Magic is an underwater marvel that truly lives up to its name. Known for its vibrant coral gardens and bustling marine life, this dive site features a submerged pinnacle rising from depths of around 30 meters to a mere 7 meters below the surface. When you dive here, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and activity that’s almost magical.

Marine Species: At Blue Magic, you can observe a variety of marine species such as giant trevallies, barracudas, pygmy seahorses, and several species of reef sharks. During the right seasons, manta rays gracefully glide through the waters, making it a truly special sight.

Unique Encounters: The highlight of Blue Magic is undoubtedly the manta ray cleaning station. Watching these majestic creatures interact in their natural habitat offers a unique, unforgettable experience. Additionally, the site often brings sightings of oceanic blacktip sharks and the elusive Wobbegong shark.

Photography: Blue Magic provides excellent opportunities for underwater photography. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, you can capture shots of colorful coral formations, schooling fish, and larger pelagic species. The site’s relatively shallow depth near the pinnacle also allows for excellent natural lighting.

Suitability: This site is suitable for advanced divers due to the potential currents and the depth of the pinnacle. However, experienced beginners accompanied by a guide can also enjoy this vibrant underwater world.

Cape Kri

Description: Cape Kri is renowned for its unmatched biodiversity and is hailed as one of the top dive sites in Raja Ampat. Located off the island of Kri, this site spans a series of sloping reefs and walls, adorned with an array of hard and soft corals. It’s one of those places where you might feel like you’re diving in a gigantic aquarium.

Marine Species: You can expect to encounter over 374 different species of fish on a single dive at Cape Kri. The site is home to an incredible mix, including sweetlips, giant trevallies, blacktip reef sharks, batfish, and napoleon wrasse. The rich marine biodiversity here is staggering.

Unique Encounters: Cape Kri is famous for its pelagic encounters. During certain seasons, you can see large schools of barracudas and bumphead parrotfish. There are also regular sightings of manta rays, adding to the site’s allure.

Photography: Underwater photographers will find Cape Kri a haven for both macro and wide-angle photography. The abundant marine life, clear waters, and vibrant coral reef provide perfect conditions for capturing stunning underwater images.

Suitability: Cape Kri is suitable for divers of all levels, but it’s better experienced with some diving experience due to the potential strong currents. A guide is recommended to help navigate and maximize the diving experience.

Manta Sandy

Description: Just off the island of Arborek, Manta Sandy is a famed manta ray cleaning station and nursery. This sandy-bottom dive site, with its sloping reef and isolated coral bommies, provides a stage for one of nature’s most captivating spectacles—manta rays.

Marine Species: The main attraction here is, without doubt, the manta rays. Apart from mantas, you can also expect to see napoleon wrasse, various species of surgeonfish, and the occasional turtle gliding through the cleaning stations.

Unique Encounters: The primary draw of Manta Sandy is witnessing the manta rays interact at their cleaning stations. On occasion, you might observe them queue up patiently, waiting their turn to get cleaned by smaller cleaning fish. The encounters are both frequent and fascinating.

Photography: Manta Sandy is a paradise for underwater photographers keen on capturing the grace and elegance of manta rays. The relatively shallow depth and clear waters create favorable lighting conditions. Patience and positioning are key to getting those breathtaking close-up shots of mantas.

Suitability: This site is ideal for divers of all levels, including beginners. Its relatively shallow depth and gentle conditions make it accessible, though attention to diving etiquette around manta rays is crucial to avoid disturbing these magnificent creatures.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: Raja Ampat benefits from warm tropical waters year-round. You can expect average temperatures ranging from 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F). This warm environment means you can often dive comfortably in a 3mm wetsuit or even just a rash guard and shorts.

Visibility: Visibility in Raja Ampat is generally impressive, ranging from 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet). However, it’s important to note that visibility can vary depending on the site and time of year. During the rainy season, you might experience slightly reduced visibility due to increased runoff and plankton blooms.

Currents and Tides: Raja Ampat is famous for its strong currents, which play a vital role in the health and diversity of its vibrant marine ecosystem. These currents bring in nutrient-rich waters that support the region’s extensive coral reefs and marine life. However, it also means divers need to be prepared for drift diving. Make sure to check tide tables and seek guidance from local dive operators. Currents can vary significantly between slack and peak times, so proper planning is key.

Safety Tips: Due to the robust currents, here’s what you should keep in mind for safe diving in Raja Ampat:

• Drift Dive Preparedness: Always be aware of the entry and exit points and stay close to your guide. It’s critical to follow their signals for descending, ascending, and safety stops.
• Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): Carry an SMB for safety. It helps boats keep track of your location, especially after drift dives.
• Buddy System: Strictly use the buddy system. In strong currents, it’s easy to get separated, so always stay close to your dive buddy.
• Hydration and Sun Protection: The tropical climate can be intense. Keep hydrated and use sunscreen or wear protective clothing to avoid sunburn between dives.

Regulations: Raja Ampat is a protected marine area, and there are several regulations and guidelines in place to ensure the preservation of this pristine environment.

• Marine Park Entry Fee: All divers must pay a marine park entry fee, which funds conservation efforts. Keep your permit with you during your stay.
• No Touching: Do not touch or disturb the marine life or corals. Your respect for the underwater environment helps in its conservation.
• Waste Management: Be responsible for your waste. Avoid using single-use plastics and make sure to properly dispose of any trash.
• Dive with Certified Operators: Ensure that you dive with reputable and certified dive operators who follow local conservation guidelines.
• Respect Local Communities: Be respectful towards the local communities and their traditions. This includes understanding and adhering to fishing and conservation zones.