Castle Rock Komodo - Komodo

Francisco Reef is one of those spots we love to kick off a trip to Raja Ampat. It’s a gentle introduction to the region's colours. Dropping down onto that shallow rock, you’re instantly surrounded by clouds of anthias and fusiliers, so thick they almost block the light – a proper Raja Ampat welcome. We’ve found the maximum depth around 20 metres, making it a relaxed dive, good for stretching out your bottom time. The visibility here can vary, but we’ve generally seen around 14 metres, sometimes more. It’s perfect for slowing down, really scanning the reef. Keep an eye out for blue-spotted stingrays tucked into the sand patches. For the macro enthusiasts, this is a real treat; we’ve spotted pygmy seahorses here on multiple occasions, clinging to their gorgonian fans. Don't forget to peer under the shallow overhangs – we've often found wobbegong sharks patiently waiting. The coral here is healthy, a mix of hard and soft, supporting a genuinely impressive number of smaller reef fish. It’s a great site for photographers or anyone wanting a relaxed, vibrant dive.

Location
Komodo, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.433300, 119.566000
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
10-30m

Marine Protected Area: Komodo

Best Time to Dive in Komodo

The warmest water temperatures in Komodo occur in November, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 27.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.2°C
  • February: 28.9°C
  • March: 29.4°C
  • April: 29.7°C
  • May: 29.4°C
  • June: 28.9°C
  • July: 28.1°C
  • August: 27.9°C
  • September: 28.2°C
  • October: 29.2°C
  • November: 30.3°C
  • December: 30.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Komodo

Nearest Dive Centres to Castle Rock Komodo

Marine Life in Komodo

Home to 220 recorded species including 95 reef fish, 92 hard corals, 13 seagrass & algae, 5 sharks & rays, 4 sea cucumbers, 3 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Castle Rock Komodo

Based on average water temperature of 29.1°C, currents 5 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 depth range for diving at Castle Rock Komodo?
The maximum depth for diving at Castle Rock Komodo is 25m. Divers will quickly descend into the blue to get into position within the split, as the castle-like peak is submerged a few meters below the water’s surface.
What marine life can divers expect to encounter at Castle Rock Komodo?
At Castle Rock Komodo, divers can expect an action-packed encounter with diverse marine life. You will mostly see white tip, black tip, and/or huge grey reef sharks actively hunting in the current. Additionally, giant and blue fin trevallies are often observed hunting massive schools of fusiliers, making for an exciting wildlife experience.
How challenging is diving at Castle Rock Komodo, and what experience level is recommended?
Diving at Castle Rock Komodo is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. Divers should be comfortable with currents, as it's an action-packed pinnacle where marine life like sharks and trevallies are seen hunting in the current. You will jump into the blue and quickly descend to get into position.
When is the best time of year to dive Castle Rock Komodo for optimal conditions?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Castle Rock Komodo is not available. For general guidance on when to dive in the region, further research would be needed.
What diving certifications are required or highly recommended for Castle Rock Komodo?
The provided data does not explicitly state specific diving certifications required for Castle Rock Komodo. However, given its intermediate difficulty rating and the need to quickly descend into position within currents, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience is highly recommended. This will ensure divers are adequately prepared for the dynamic conditions.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Castle Rock Komodo?
Castle Rock Komodo is characterized by strong currents, where divers will observe sharks and trevallies actively hunting. The pinnacle's location in an open body of water contributes to these dynamic conditions. Divers can generally expect good visibility, averaging around 19m.