Christmas Island (Kiritimati), Kiribati
    Kiritimati

    Reef Patch

    Best months: Nov–Mar

    Protected Area

    Kiritimati

    Why dive here

    With 190+ marine species recorded in the area - including blacktip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, sperm whales, thresher sharks and lionfish - Reef Patch offers some of Christmas Island (Kiritimati)'s richest reef diving. Water ranges 27-29°C, warmest June, July, August.

    Best timeNov–Mar
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBlacktip Reef Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks, Sperm Whales, Thresher Sharks and Lionfish · 190+ species recorded
    Water27-29°C · warmest June, July, August
    CharacterReef dive
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Reef Patch isn't just a dive site, it’s a masterclass in coral complexity. We love dropping in here, particularly on a calm morning, when the sun filters through the shallow water and picks out the colours of the staghorn and spine corals. You’ll find yourself drifting over a sprawling plateau, the corals forming canyons and towers that feel like an underwater city. Look closely, and you’ll spot Greensnout Parrotfish grazing on the algae, their strong beaks making a distinct crunching sound that carries in the quiet. Our favourite residents here are the mimic blennies, tiny little characters peeking out from their holes, and the Isabel’s hermit crabs scuttling across the sand patches. There’s a wonderful density of life, from the schooling red squirrelfish darting in and out of overhangs to the more elusive enigmatic moray, often tucked deep within the coral bommies. Visibility here can vary, but even on an average day, the sheer density of coral and the smaller, shyer fish make it a rewarding dive. It's a superb spot for macro enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a slow, meandering drift, soaking in the details.

    Today06:1518:2012h 5m daylightGolden hour 17:53

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Reef Patch

    Reef Patch Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Reef Patch, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (1.92, -157.44) (1km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    28°C

    82°F · Range: 26.1–29.8°C

    Air Temperature

    26°C

    79°F

    Wind Speed

    8.38 m/s

    16.3 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1010.8 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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