Tatawa Kecil – The small island of Tatawa Kecil has a big reputation with divers. In fact, this underwater playground is a Komodo classic. There’s a mix of swim-throughs, small caves, bommies and valleys which harbour huge numbers, and a huge diversity, of fish including reef sharks, jacks, batfish, snappers, groupers, sweetlips and occasionally a passing ray.
Cannibal Rock – A firm favourite with macro photographers and those wanting to see some of Komodo’s more unusual marine life, Cannibal Rock is home to frogfish, pygmy sea horses, nudibranchs and coleman shrimp. This seamount dive site is famous for invertebrate species and colorful soft corals and, being quite sheltered, it’s a good site if you want a break from drift diving.
The Cauldron – True to its name, The Cauldron looks like the top of a boiling pot and the crater offers many nooks and crannies to explore. Explore the macro life down one side, then be prepared for the contrast when you reach the bottom and find yourself surrounded by big fish. You’ll leave The Cauldron via the channel where dense schools of small to medium sized fish congregate. Only after you’ve dived here will you truly understand why it’s so iconic.
Batu Bolong – Marine life gathers here as though the huge rock pinnacle is a magnet drawing them in. In the blue, you’ll see sharks and tuna hunting while schools of smaller fish dart around in sync. On the pinnacle itself the colors will astound you, along with the sheer number of small reef fish swimming in and out of corals trying to keep up with the action.
Pillarsteen – Pillarsteen boasts incredible topography including a number of caves and swim-throughs. Peering into many of the crevices, don’t be surprised to find something looking back at you! Marine life highlights here include a range of crustaceans, moray eels, often a passing shark or turtle, and plenty of reef fish. If macro is more your thing, take a close look at the soft corals and you won’t be disappointed – this site has something for everyone.
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