Celestes - Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Gee Six is one of those deeper pinnacles that requires careful timing. It sits right in the middle of a passage, so you’re looking at strong incoming or outgoing currents if you don’t hit the slack window just right. We’ve found the best approach is to listen closely to the crew briefing and be ready for a drift if the current picks up. Below 18 metres, the western side blooms with soft corals, sea fans, and impressive black coral trees. Keep an eye peeled for grey reef sharks, whitetips, and barracuda schooling in the blue. Visibility usually hovers around 18 metres, providing a good view of the action when the currents aren't too wild.

Location
Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-12.096400, 96.891700
Type
reef

Nearby Dive Sites in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Celestes

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 typical depth range for diving at the Celestes dive site in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands?
The Celestes dive site in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands offers a maximum depth of 23 meters. This makes it a very enjoyable site for a range of divers, from those seeking shallower exploration to those comfortable reaching the maximum depth. You can explore this beautiful reef and discover something new with each dive.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at the Celestes dive site?
At the Celestes dive site, divers can expect to encounter predominantly hard corals, creating a vibrant underwater landscape. Keep an eye out for schools of Indian triggers and graceful pyramid butterfly fish, which are frequently seen here. There's always something new to be found on this enjoyable reef.
How challenging is the Celestes dive site considered for different diver experience levels?
The Celestes dive site is considered to be of intermediate difficulty. However, it is described as a very enjoyable site for all divers, suggesting it's accessible for less experienced divers while still offering engaging features for those with more experience. Its manageable conditions make it a great choice for a wide range of skill levels.
What is the best time of year to dive at Celestes for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
For optimal conditions and marine encounters at the Celestes dive site, it is best dived during the summer months. Being located on the eastern side of the atoll, this timing likely offers the most favorable weather and underwater visibility. Planning your trip during this period will enhance your diving experience and marine encounters.
Are there any specific diving certifications required or highly recommended for diving at Celestes?
The provided information for the Celestes dive site does not specify any particular diving certifications required or highly recommended beyond standard open water certification. Given its intermediate difficulty, a good level of comfort and experience with reef diving is advisable. Always consult with local dive operators for their specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at the Celestes dive site?
Divers at the Celestes dive site can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 35 meters. The current conditions are usually less pronounced compared to the nearby Ripper site, making for a more relaxed dive. These favorable conditions contribute to a very enjoyable experience for all divers.