Kehpara Pass (South-east Pass) - Pohnpei

40m Max

15-40m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Kehpara Pass (South-east Pass) is one of the most celebrated dive sites in Pohnpei, the south-east pass with similar pelagic action - sharks, jacks and manta rays - over gorgonian-covered walls, an advanced drift. The site is defined by the south-east pass through the barrier reef, a gorgonian-covered wall meeting a strong current that funnels sharks and jacks, creating an underwater landscape that rewards divers with every visit. Grey reef sharks and schooling jacks tear through the pass, with mantas and eagle rays in the blue and gorgonian walls framing the dive. Water clarity in this part of the Federated States of Micronesia is frequently excellent, with visibility often extending well beyond 15 metres and a comfortably warm tropical temperature year-round. The combination of healthy hard and soft corals, nutrient-rich currents and sheltered reef systems makes Kehpara Pass (South-east Pass) a reliable location for both macro photography and wide-angle encounters. Local dive operators run regular trips to the site from nearby bases, and the geography means conditions are suitable across a range of experience levels with appropriate guidance. Conservation is taken seriously throughout Micronesia, and Kehpara Pass (South-east Pass) benefits from marine protection that keeps fish stocks high and coral coverage dense. Divers who plan their visit around the calm season will find the most predictable conditions, though the site can be enjoyed throughout the year. Kehpara Pass (South-east Pass) deserves a place on any serious Pacific diving itinerary, offering a genuine taste of the untouched beauty that makes Micronesia diving so highly regarded internationally. Regular visitors note that the marine life here, including grey reef shark, schooling jacks, reef manta ray, gorgonian sea fan, eagle ray, tuna, makes every descent memorable.

Dive Briefing

"The dive at Kehpara Pass (South-east Pass) begins with a controlled entry and a short transfer from the nearest base, with the guide giving a full briefing on the site layout, expected marine life and emergency procedures. Descending toward the south-east pass through the barrier reef, a gorgonian-covered wall meeting a strong current that funnels sharks and jacks, divers are immediately surrounded by grey reef shark, schooling jacks, reef manta ray, gorgonian sea fan, with the reef revealing more detail the closer you look. The maximum depth reaches about 40 metres, while the average depth sits near 25 metres, so gas planning and a dive computer keep the profile safe and comfortable. Currents are described as strong, and the guide chooses the entry time to make the most of slack or mild flow, using a reef hook or DSMB when needed. The topography offers natural swim-throughs and ledges that shelter larger animals, and the open water above the reef often holds cruising pelagics. Throughout the dive, neutral buoyancy protects the fragile coral, and the group stays close to the guide to manage depth and any surge. The safety stop is completed in open water on a DSMB, and the boat follows the bubbles to collect divers at the exit point for a relaxed return to base. Dive on a favourable current window with a guide, typically a calm morning in the dry season, for the safest and most action."