Tatawa Besar

Tatawa Besar is renowned as one of Komodo National Park's most vibrant and approachable dive sites, offering an unforgettable drift diving experience. Located in the central area, north-east of Komodo Island, this site is celebrated for its rich marine biodiversity and stunning coral gardens.

Dive Overview

Divers will find Tatawa Besar an intermediate dive site, perfect for those comfortable with moderate currents and seeking a colorful, effortless drift. The site features a long, sloping coral reef that transitions into sandy patches and bommies, creating a diverse underwater landscape. While the maximum depth can reach 30-40 m, much of the incredible marine life and coral formations are concentrated between 5 m and 18 m, making it an excellent dive for extended bottom times and photography. An Open Water certification is required to explore this beautiful dive site.

Conditions and Topography

The currents at Tatawa Besar are typically moderate, providing a gentle yet exhilarating drift along the reef. It's often considered one of the more relaxing drift dives in the Komodo National Park, making it a great introduction to drift diving for newer certified divers or a relaxed option between more demanding sites. Water temperatures generally range from 26°C to 29°C, though they can occasionally drop to 24°C, particularly during certain seasons. Visibility is often excellent, ranging from 15-30 meters, especially during the dry season (April to November).

The topography is dominated by expansive, healthy coral gardens. Divers will be amazed by fields of orange-tinted staghorn and table corals, interspersed with giant sponges, sea fans, and soft corals in vibrant hues of yellow, purple, and red.

Marine Life Encounters

Tatawa Besar is teeming with a spectacular array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter numerous Hawksbill Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) and Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) gracefully gliding through the water or resting on ledges. Keep an eye out for Whitetip Reef Sharks (Triaenodon obesus) and Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) patrolling the reef or napping under coral formations.

The reef comes alive with schools of Fusiliers (Caesio spp.) and clouds of colorful Sea Goldies (Pseudanthias squamipinnis, also known as anthias). We often spot beautiful Oriental Sweetlips (Plectorhinchus vittatus) and can sometimes find the camouflaged Frogfish (Antennariidae spp.) hidden among the corals and sponges. Broadclub Cuttlefish (Sepia latimanus) are also frequently seen.

On lucky days, divers might be treated to the majestic sight of Reef Manta Rays (Mobula alfredi) cruising through the shallows or visiting cleaning stations located near the dive's starting point.

Potential Hazards

While generally considered a gentle drift, divers should be mindful of the moderate current, which can occasionally pick up. Maintaining good buoyancy control is crucial to avoid coral contact and protect the pristine reef. As with any popular dive site, awareness of boat traffic is also important, especially during ascent and safety stops.