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Posted by on December 5, 2019

Visitors to the beautiful Komodo Island need no persuasion to make a repeat visit. The island and surrounding destinations such as Labuan Bajo have been popular destinations for holidaymakers, honeymooners as well as adventurers.

In addition, Komodo National Park is a favorite diving and snorkeling haven because of its vibrant marine life. The Komodo waters host many varieties of marine wildlife such as:

  • Sharks
  • Mantra rays
  • Turtles
  • Colorful varieties of fish species

With its plentiful macro life as well as multihued coral gardens, the National Park is a diving and snorkeling paradise.

Accessing the Best Reefs

The best reefs are accessed in remote spots far out at sea. You will need a boat and a guide to get to them. You may also experience some tricky currents which is why an experienced guide is necessary to help show you the way. A liveaboard experience is a great option for this adventure.

Popular Snorkeling Spots

Komodo diving is popular the world over. The island is rich is snorkeling and diving spots. Some of the snorkeling spots may be out in the sea and not very regularly visited. Some of the spots, both popular and barely known include the ones below.

·         Pengah Reef

This spot does not have the most favorable snorkeling conditions. You barely have time to jump off your boat and swim to the perfect spot before the tide is up. Also, swimming may be a tad difficult as you may be thrown against the rocks or the boat.

However, as you get closer to the reef, the waves let off and you are able to view some amazing underwater caves. They are capped in coral and the marine life is breathtaking. The struggle to get there is definitely worth it.

The visibility is great but beware of the currents. The best time of the year to visit Pengah Reef is in September.

·         Batu Bolong

Batu Bolong is on the lips of every experienced diver in the world. The rock with a hole in it is every diver’s dream come true. In spite of the popularity, one has to approach this site with a bit of trepidation.

It is well known for its temperamental currents that can easily cause problems for even the best of divers. However, this is what makes it such an irresistible challenge to them. It hosts a wide variety of marine species within its swirling depths.

Many divers who have had the pleasure to conquering its depths describe it as a reef on testosterone. While it is more popular with divers, experienced snorkelers with a good guide can take a turn.

·         Siaba Besar

This is possibly one of the safest snorkeling sites in Komodo Island. Even rookie snorkelers would be able to handle this one. The reef is relatively shallow and most of it is shielded from strong currents.

The visibility is excellent. You are able to see some marine life, especially turtles waddling in the sand.

Our third and final spot for the day was Siaba Besar, which is nestled in a wide bay, and was to be our anchorage for the night. You will have the best experience if you visit in September.

·         Tatawa Kecil

It is hailed for being one of the best snorkeling destinations in the island. However, the currents are quite strong and you must beat the tide to be able to snorkel.

Take a guide with you for advice on the areas to avoid. They will tell you, for instance, to stay close to rocks. You will be able to see a wondrous world of corals as well as many types of marine life. This site is said to host a large number of serranide fish.

Conclusion

Snorkeling in Komodo Island is an experience every snorkeling enthusiast would enjoy. The clear sea waters and the weather make it the ideal activity to engage in. Not only will you enjoy it and have some amazing views but you will also stay cool in the water.

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