Hol Sulamadaha - Halmahera

Maarehaa Kandu, over on the eastern side of Vaavu, is a channel dive that really delivers on the shark front. Thanks to its protected status, the grey reef sharks gather here in serious numbers. We’re talking over a hundred when the conditions are right, often with silver tips schooling alongside them. It’s a proper drift, so you’ll want to be comfortable with some current, but the reward is a spectacular show of apex predators in their element. Visibility hovers around 25 metres, giving you a clear view of the action down to the 30-metre mark.

Location
Halmahera, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
0.867300, 127.331400
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: KKP3K Pulau Babua, Jailolo

Best Time to Dive in Halmahera

The warmest water temperatures in Halmahera occur in November, averaging 30.1°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 28.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.0°C
  • February: 28.8°C
  • March: 29.1°C
  • April: 29.5°C
  • May: 29.9°C
  • June: 29.6°C
  • July: 29.0°C
  • August: 28.5°C
  • September: 28.6°C
  • October: 29.4°C
  • November: 30.1°C
  • December: 29.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Halmahera

Nearest Dive Centres to Hol Sulamadaha

Marine Life in Halmahera

Home to 141 recorded species including 69 reef fish, 48 hard corals, 7 seagrass & algae, 4 clams & mussels, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 sea cucumbers.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Hol Sulamadaha

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°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 diving depth at Hol Sulamadaha?
The typical diving depth at Hol Sulamadaha extends to a maximum of 21m. This depth range is ideal for exploring the site's quite dense coral gardens and diverse marine life. It's a very cool dive site suitable for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Hol Sulamadaha?
At Hol Sulamadaha, divers can expect to encounter quite dense coral gardens, providing a vibrant backdrop for an array of marine life. You might be lucky enough to spot up to three green turtles, alongside fascinating creatures such as Nudibranchs and Flatworms. The reef is also home to various fish species including Snapper, Fusilier, Sweetlips, Butterflyfish, Grouper, Damselfish, and Gobies, making for a rich wildlife experience.
How challenging is diving at Hol Sulamadaha for different skill levels?
Diving at Hol Sulamadaha is rated as intermediate difficulty. This makes it an excellent choice for certified divers who have some experience beyond their initial open water certification. While it offers a rewarding experience, it might present a slight challenge for complete novices.
When is the best time of year to dive at Hol Sulamadaha for optimal conditions?
The provided information does not specify the best time of year to dive at Hol Sulamadaha for optimal conditions. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Halmahera for up-to-date seasonal advice. For general information on dive seasons, you can visit our When to Dive page.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Hol Sulamadaha?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated in the provided data for Hol Sulamadaha, its intermediate difficulty suggests that divers should possess at least an entry-level certification. We recommend consulting with local dive centers in Halmahera for their specific requirements. Ensuring you have the appropriate equipment and training for intermediate dives will enhance your experience.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at Hol Sulamadaha?
At Hol Sulamadaha, divers can expect an average visibility of 18m, offering clear views of the vibrant reef. However, the provided data does not include specific information regarding water temperature or typical current conditions. For the most current details on water conditions and currents, it's always best to check with local dive operators in Halmahera before your dive.