Noritaki - Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Red Cliff, on Roatán’s southeast side, is a site we return to whenever we’re in the area. It’s an easy boat ride out, which is always a bonus, and the wall itself is a really striking sight. The namesake red corals, both hard and soft, create this incredible crimson tapestry against the blue, and we find ourselves just drifting along, watching the light play on the different textures. Maxing out at 18 metres, it’s a relaxed dive, perfect for a long bottom time. We often spot schools of doctorfish here, silver flashes against the red, and there’s always a chance to find a sleepy green moray tucked into a crevice. Keep an eye on the sand flats at the base of the wall; we’ve had good luck spotting southern stingrays there, sometimes half-buried, sometimes gliding past. Visibility averages a comfortable 15 metres, so you get a great sense of the scale of the wall. We think it’s a brilliant afternoon dive, offering both visual impact and a good chance for some interesting macro finds if you take your time.

Location
Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-12.137400, 96.814300
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-15m

Nearby Dive Sites in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Noritaki

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 diving depth at Noritaki and are there any particularly deep areas to explore?
The typical diving depth at Noritaki ranges from 5-15m. While the main dive area is within this range, divers can explore a deep ledge where mantas are often seen travelling, reaching a maximum depth of 21m. This offers a chance to observe pelagic life in deeper waters.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Noritaki?
Divers at Noritaki can expect to explore a vibrant reef ecosystem, characterized by numerous plate corals, which are showing pleasing signs of recovery after storm damage. The site is also home to various anemone and fish species. Keep an eye out for majestic mantas, which are often seen travelling along the deep ledge towards a cleaning station further south.
How difficult is diving at Noritaki, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
Diving at Noritaki is rated as intermediate difficulty. This makes it suitable for certified divers with some prior experience, offering a rewarding exploration of its recovering reef. While not ideal for absolute beginners, advanced divers will also find plenty to appreciate at this unique site in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
What is the best time of year to dive at Noritaki for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions or seasonal marine encounters at Noritaki is not available. However, divers can generally expect good visibility, averaging 35m, throughout the year. For detailed seasonal insights, it's recommended to consult local dive operators in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands or visit our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at Noritaki?
While no specific certification level is explicitly stated, given Noritaki's intermediate difficulty rating, divers should hold at least an Open Water Diver certification with some experience. It is always advisable to check with local dive centers in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands for any specific local requirements or recommendations before planning your dive.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Noritaki dive site?
The provided data indicates excellent average visibility at Noritaki, typically around 35m, offering clear views of the recovering reef. Specific details regarding typical currents or water temperature are not available in the current information. Divers should always consult their dive guide or local operators for up-to-date conditions before entering the water at the Noritaki dive site.