Pinacle du 19 Novembre - Loyalty Islands

Seraya Tulamben, not to be confused with its Bali namesake, is a macro feast on Lombok’s east coast. We love this site for its focus; it doesn’t try to be everything. Instead, it delivers a dense, compact area perfect for slowing down and really looking. Expect to spend most of your dive within a twenty-meter radius, eyes glued to the sandy slope and scattered coral bommies. We’ve spent hours here, meticulously combing through the crannies for frogfish, which seem to favour the sponges, and the surprising array of nudibranchs. The False Brown Moray often makes an appearance, peering out from its den. It’s not about grand vistas here; it’s about the tiny wonders – the delicate Eye-spotted Eubranchus, the Pudgy Pygmygoby darting amongst the sand. This is a site for photographers, absolutely, but also for any diver who appreciates the art of the slow hunt, the joy of discovering something minuscule and perfect. Come during the day for the light, or try a night dive when the cephalopods emerge; either way, bring your patience and your sharpest vision.

Location
Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, Australasia
Coordinates
-20.833500, 165.410300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Povilla Forest Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Loyalty Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Loyalty Islands occur in February, averaging 28.2°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 24.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.9°C
  • February: 28.2°C
  • March: 28.1°C
  • April: 27.6°C
  • May: 26.3°C
  • June: 25.4°C
  • July: 24.7°C
  • August: 24.2°C
  • September: 24.5°C
  • October: 25.2°C
  • November: 26.4°C
  • December: 27.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Loyalty Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Pinacle du 19 Novembre

Marine Life in Loyalty Islands

Home to 129 recorded species including 93 reef fish, 11 sea cucumbers, 9 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 clams & mussels, 4 sharks & rays, 3 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Pinacle du 19 Novembre

Based on average water temperature of 26.3°C, currents 10 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Pinacle du 19 Novembre?
The Pinacle du 19 Novembre dive site offers exploration down to a maximum depth of 21m. Divers can expect to explore a fascinating reef environment within this depth range.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Pinacle du 19 Novembre?
At Pinacle du 19 Novembre, divers will encounter a unique underwater topography featuring a labyrinth of large faults, canyons of varying widths, and tunnels. The site is richly decorated with numerous gorgonians, and marine life sightings include giant anemones, whip gorgonians with Zanzibar shrimps and gobies, thazar, surgeons, schools of blue fusillers, jacks, and sharks.
How challenging is the Pinacle du 19 Novembre dive site, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
The Pinacle du 19 Novembre dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty rating. While not suitable for novice divers, it offers a rewarding experience for those with some prior diving experience.
What is the best time of year to dive Pinacle du 19 Novembre for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Pinacle du 19 Novembre for optimal conditions and marine life sightings is not available in the current data. We recommend checking the When to Dive section for general guidance on diving in New Caledonia.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive Pinacle du 19 Novembre?
As Pinacle du 19 Novembre is an intermediate difficulty dive site, it is recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate its unique topography and maximum depth of 21m.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Pinacle du 19 Novembre?
Details regarding the typical current and water conditions at Pinacle du 19 Novembre are not specified in the provided data. Divers should consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information before planning their dive.