Canons - Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Fausse passe de Uitoé, tucked away in Prony Bay, is one of our favourite spots for a truly relaxed dive. Forget crazy currents here; it's mostly calm, which is ideal for soaking in the details. We usually kick off on a sandy plateau, maybe spotting a leopard shark if we're lucky – we’ve seen them cruising by the sand many times. Then you hit the drop-off, a jagged wall that gives you plenty to explore down to 26 metres. It’s not about huge pelagics every day, though we have seen tuna zip past on occasion. For us, it’s the smaller stuff that shines: look for those gorgeous bicolor nudibranchs crawling along the coral, or a dragonfish tucked into a crevice. We’ve spent whole safety stops just watching the little Sparse Eviota flit around. It’s a site that rewards patience, perfect for photographers or anyone who likes to take their time and really observe.

Location
Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-12.088200, 96.873100
Type
reef

Nearby Dive Sites in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Canons

Marine Life in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Home to 247 recorded species including 160 reef fish, 44 hard corals, 13 sea cucumbers, 9 sea snails & nudibranchs, 7 crabs & lobsters, 5 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth at the Canons dive site in Malta?
The maximum depth at the Canons dive site in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Australia, is 22 meters. Please note that the information provided is for Canons in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, not Malta.
What marine life and features can divers expect to see at the Canons dive site?
At the Canons dive site, divers can regularly spot Kat, the resident dugong, along with dolphins and mantas entering or leaving the lagoon. The site is a reef type, featuring garden eels and, during summer months, is a favorite nesting site for giant trigger fish. Divers might also find white cap partner gobies in the fine sand under ledges. For more information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Canons dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Canons dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While not explicitly for beginners, divers with some experience will find it manageable. It is described as an easy afternoon dive site, suggesting it's not overly strenuous for those with appropriate certification.
What is the best time of year to dive at the Canons dive site for optimal conditions?
The data indicates that during summer months, the Canons dive site becomes a favorite nesting site for giant trigger fish, which could be a highlight for divers. However, specific information regarding the absolute best time of year for optimal diving conditions overall is not provided in the current context. For general advice on seasonal diving, you can visit our when to dive page.
What diving certifications are required to dive at the Canons dive site?
The provided information for the Canons dive site does not explicitly state the required diving certifications. However, given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess appropriate training and experience for such conditions. It is always recommended to check with local dive operators for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical water conditions, such as currents and visibility, at the Canons dive site?
At the Canons dive site, divers can expect an average visibility of 20 meters. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions for this site. It is always advisable to consult with local dive centers for real-time conditions before your dive.