Alor, West Timor & Komodo
This part of Indonesia is visited by liveaboard boats operating from Bali to the east.
Alor & West Timor, are further to the west. This area is becoming an increasingly popular liveaboard destination. The area is similar to Komodo- a current swept channel feeding several small islands that are fringed with coral reefs.
Komodo is famed for its national park which is home to the legendary Komodo dragons. The island has a very dramatic almost barren landscape. It is possible to land an visit this world-heritage site for a US$ 50 fee.
You would be advised to take a good pair of walking boots for this excursion. A park ranger will escort you when visiting Komodo National Park as the dragons are quite vicious. The saliva they produce contains toxins.
The marine life is enhanced by the dramatic effects of the Indian Ocean cascading into the Sumba & Flores seas. There is a deep channel between Komodo & neighbouring Flores. Strong nutrient-rich currents pass through this channel. The coral reefs are spectacular with diverse marine life and occasional sightings of pelagic and whales to the south.
It should be noted that dynamite fishing and shark finning have decimated the tuna and shark population to the north, so any sightings of these species are unlikely.
The Diving
There are two distinct areas: to the south of Komodo the water is nutrient-rich but the viz is reduced as is the water temperature at certain times of the year. 5mm wet suits with hoods & gloves are common. In contrast, the area to the north of Komodo is warm, clear classical reef diving requiring minimal thermal protection.
Best Time to Visit:
May to December
Further Information
www.indonesia-tourism.com
Langkoi Island - Mantas feed here. Some rays are not far of wingspans approaching 6m.
Rinca Island - Horseshoe Bay. Much to see but nutrients reduce visibility.
Horseshoe Bay. - Cannibal Rock, a dramatic pinnacle dive- numerous species abound.
Horseshoe Bay. - The great Yellow Wall of Texas. Famed for soft corals & Sea Apples
Banta Island - It's a small world. This dive site is a good night dive and a macro heaven.
GPS Point - Low sea mount. Expect to see everything from Tuna to nudibranch
Gilli Laura Launt - Strong Currents here. For the more adventurous diver.
Mark's Sharks - Strong Currents but shark sightings a possibility here
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Komodo: East of Java
Komodo's The Buzz Word
Rodale's Guide to Indonesia
Komodo: Cannibal Rock
Komodo: Far End of Manta Alley
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