Tapu – Bora Bora (Society Islands)

18m Max

15-30m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Tapu is a delightful coral garden dive site located within Bora Bora's protected lagoon system, offering divers of all experience levels the opportunity to explore a vibrant reef ecosystem teeming with colourful tropical fish and fascinating marine life. The site features extensive coral formations that have developed over many years on the shallow reef flat, creating a complex three-dimensional habitat that supports an impressive diversity of species including numerous anemonefish colonies with their vibrant host anemones dotting the reef in patches of purple, green, and orange. Napoleon wrasse are regular visitors to the reef, their massive bump-headed profiles and inquisitive nature making them one of the most photographed residents of this productive ecosystem. Multiple species of moray eel inhabit the crevices and overhangs throughout the coral garden, with some individuals growing to impressive sizes in this protected and food-rich environment. The site also features a small shipwreck of an old yacht that has become an artificial reef in its own right, encrusted with corals and sponges that have transformed the vessel into a thriving habitat for batfish, lionfish, and various invertebrate species. The gentle conditions and shallow depth profile make Tapu an ideal site for underwater photography workshops, refresher dives, and introductory scuba experiences in one of the world's most beautiful lagoon environments.

Dive Briefing

"Descend from the boat onto the shallow reef flat where the colourful coral garden immediately reveals its riches with abundant fish life in every direction. Begin by exploring the anemonefish colonies where multiple species of clownfish tend their eggs on the rocks adjacent to their host anemones, providing excellent macro photography opportunities. Napoleon wrasse cruise through the reef with their distinctive swimming style, often approaching divers with apparent curiosity as they search for small invertebrates among the coral rubble. Moray eels are well-established residents at Tapu, with several large individuals occupying favourite crevices where they can be observed extending their heads to investigate the passing water current. The small yacht wreck provides an interesting side excursion, its coral-encrusted hull creating a photogenic subject that illustrates how artificial structures become integrated into the natural reef ecosystem over time. Schools of butterflyfish patrol the coral heads in pairs, their bright patterns adding constant colour and movement to the reef landscape. The shallow depth allows extended bottom times for thorough exploration and photography before ascending for your safety stop among the shallower coral bommies."