Breath Taker, part of the larger Golden Dream complex, is where the Somosomo Strait really shows off. We love to drop in on an incoming current, ideally a stiff one. It’s a drift down a ridge that joins a series of pinnacles, bottoming out around 22 metres. The big draw here is the action that collects around that final pinnacle – schools of barracuda forming silver tornadoes, jacks zipping through, and we've seen plenty of grey and blacktip reef sharks cruising the edges.
This site is all about the motion, the feeling of that current sweeping you along as you watch the show unfold. You’ll spot eagle rays gliding past and, if you're lucky, a Pacific manta ray cleaning itself in the stronger flow. The corals, both hard and soft, are impressive, but it’s the sheer volume of fish life that makes this a standout. Just remember your DSMB for safety stops, especially when the current picks up.
Location
Taveuni & Somosomo Strait, Fiji, Central & South Pacific
What is the maximum depth for diving at the "Breath Taker" dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the Breath Taker dive site is 22 meters. Divers will find the highlight of the dive at the last pinnacle, located at 21 meters, offering plenty of action and marine life.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at "Breath Taker"?
At the Breath Taker dive site, divers can expect to encounter a vibrant reef ecosystem featuring both soft and hard corals. The site is rich with marine life, including grey, blacktip, and whitetip reef sharks, schooling barracuda, GT's/jacks, and moray eels. Lucky divers might also spot eagle rays and sometimes even pacific mantas at cleaning stations when the current is strong. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the "Breath Taker" dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Breath Taker dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it generally unsuitable for beginner divers. It is best dived on an incoming current, and the stronger the current, the better the experience, which requires more advanced diving skills. Divers are advised to use a DSMB for safety stops due to these conditions.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at "Breath Taker" for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the Breath Taker dive site does not specify a particular time of year or season for optimal conditions. Instead, it highlights that the site is best dived on an incoming current, with stronger currents often leading to a more dynamic experience. For general information on diving seasons in Fiji, you can consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at "Breath Taker"?
While specific scuba diving certifications are not explicitly listed for the Breath Taker dive site, its intermediate difficulty rating suggests that an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience is recommended. Divers should be comfortable with drift diving and managing stronger currents. Always consult with your dive operator regarding required certifications and equipment for this site.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at the "Breath Taker" dive site?
At the Breath Taker dive site, divers can expect significant current conditions, as it is best dived on an incoming current, with stronger currents often enhancing the experience. Due to these currents, the use of a DSMB for safety stops is advised. The average visibility at this site is typically around 18 meters, offering clear views of the abundant marine life.