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    Komodo: Batu Bolong Dive Site – Komodo National Park

    40m Max
    15-40m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    Batu Bolong is one of the most iconic dive sites in Komodo National Park and is consistently ranked among the best dives in Indonesia. The site features a dramatic underwater pinnacle that rises from over 40 meters to just 5 meters below the surface, sitting exposed in the powerful currents that flow between Komodo and the surrounding islands. The constant flow of nutrient-rich water has created extraordinary coral growth that covers every surface of the pinnacle, from dense soft corals and gorgonian sea fans on the deeper walls to pristine hard coral gardens on the shallow summit. The pelagic action at Batu Bolong is what truly sets it apart — schools of barracuda numbering in the hundreds swirl around the pinnacle, while grey reef sharks patrol the deeper walls and giant trevally hunt in the current. Eagle rays glide past on the upcurrent side, and occasional manta rays and hammerhead sharks make appearances during the peak season. The site requires advanced certification and experience in strong current diving, as the currents can be powerful, multi-directional, and unpredictable. Divers typically descend onto the shallow summit and work their way down the current-facing side, taking shelter in the overhangs and crevices that dot the wall. The shallow summit at 5 to 10 meters provides an outstanding safety stop environment with vibrant coral and abundant reef fish. Batu Bolong is accessible from Labuan Bajo by speedboat or as part of a liveaboard itinerary through Komodo National Park.

    Dive Briefing

    "The dive begins with a negative entry from the boat directly onto the shallow summit of the pinnacle at approximately 5 meters. The summit is a stunning coral garden covered in table corals, staghorn formations, and colorful anthias. Your guide leads you down the current-facing side of the pinnacle, where the wall drops steeply to 30 to 40 meters. Schools of barracuda form massive spiraling formations in the current, while grey reef sharks cruise the deeper ledges. Giant trevally hunt along the wall face, and eagle rays may pass on the blue side. At 20 to 25 meters, overhangs and swim-throughs provide shelter from the strongest current and offer opportunities to examine the coral-encrusted surfaces up close. As you work your way around the pinnacle, the current direction and strength may change, requiring constant awareness. Your guide leads you back up to the shallow summit for the final portion of the dive and safety stop, where the coral garden at 5 to 8 meters is among the most spectacular in the park. Total bottom time is typically limited by nitrogen absorption due to the deep profile."

    Signature Marine Life

    Grey reef shark

    high

    Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos

    Best: April, May, June

    Giant trevally

    high

    Caranx ignobilis

    Eagle ray

    medium

    Aetobatus narinari

    Barracuda

    very high

    Sphyraena barracuda

    Whitetip reef shark

    high

    Triaenodon obesus

    Safety & Hazards

    • Strong multi-directional currents that can change direction without warning
    • Downcurrents on the exposed sides of the pinnacle that can pull divers deeper
    • Deep profile with significant nitrogen loading requiring careful ascent planning
    • Remote location with the nearest hyperbaric chamber in Labuan Bajo
    • Boat traffic on the surface during ascent in the open ocean channel
    Nearest Chamber
    RSUD Komodo (Labuan Bajo)
    55km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Batu Bolong is designed for advanced divers with significant experience in strong current environments. The deep profile, powerful multi-directional currents, and remote location demand excellent buoyancy control, air management, and situational awareness. The site rewards experienced divers with world-class pelagic encounters and spectacular coral scenery. It is a bucket-list dive for many, but must be approached with respect for the conditions. Those who enjoy high-energy environments where the ocean's power is palpable will find Batu Bolong to be an unparalleled experience. It is arguably the best place in Komodo to see the sheer density of life that a healthy, current-swept reef can support.

    pinnacle
    advanced
    shark
    current
    pelagic
    boat-dive
    wall
    world-class

    Quick Stats

    Difficultyadvanced
    CertificationAdvanced Open Water
    Currentstrong
    Water Temp23-28°C
    Best TimeApril - December

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • Komodo Diving Center
    • Manta Rhei Dive Center
    • Wicked Dive Komodo
    • Scuba Junkie Komodo
    Pricing Guide
    $120 - $180
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    fisheye
    wide_angle_zoom
    macro_100mm

    Best for: wide_angle, macro

    Nearby Stay

    Ayana Komodo Resort

    Labuan Bajo55km away

    Check Availability

    Komodo Resort & Diving Club

    Labuan Bajo52km away

    Check Availability