China Shop - Komodo

Gonçalo Coelho isn't just another sunken vessel, it's a purposeful wreck. We love how it was sunk specifically for diving back in 1999, which explains why it sits so perfectly upright. Dropping onto the deck at 16 metres, you immediately get a sense of its history as a transport ship, especially with that wide ramp used for landing tanks in WWII still visible at the stern. As you follow the deck down towards the bow, which rests at 32 metres, the sheer volume of schooling fish here is incredible. Expect Atlantic thread herring so thick they shimmer like a silver curtain. We've often found small tiger sharks patrolling the deeper sections – a genuinely thrilling sight. Inside, exploring the bridge and cargo holds is straightforward; it’s open enough for easy penetration but still feels like a proper wreck dive. Look for the vibrant orange of Kuekenthal’s ball sponges clinging to the hull, and keep an eye out for curious freckled driftfish hovering near the windows. This site is fantastic for experienced wreck divers and those looking for a lively, accessible wreck experience.

Location
Komodo, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.467500, 119.565200
Type
wreck

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 China Shop

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 China Shop

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 China Shop in Komodo?
The China Shop dive site offers a maximum depth of 20 meters, making it accessible for a wide range of divers. Its topography features a gentle slope, contributing to an enjoyable and manageable diving experience.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at the China Shop dive site?
Divers at China Shop can look forward to encountering very nice coral formations, alongside diverse marine life. Highlights include majestic eagle rays, graceful reef sharks, fascinating nudibranchs, various crabs, and serene stingrays. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the China Shop dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The China Shop dive site is considered an easy dive, making it suitable for all levels of divers, including beginners. This is due to its gentle slope topography and typically mild current conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive at China Shop for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at China Shop for optimal conditions is not available in the provided context. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive at China Shop in Komodo?
The China Shop dive site welcomes divers of all levels. While specific certification requirements are not detailed, a basic open water certification is generally sufficient for sites suitable for "all levels."
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the China Shop dive site?
Divers at China Shop can expect mild current conditions, contributing to an easy and pleasant dive experience. The average visibility at this site is a clear 18 meters, offering excellent views of the underwater environment.