Manta Point , Makassar Reef - Komodo

The Catalina is a stunner, no question. We love how she’s settled upright, almost gracefully, on the reef’s edge, a ghost of her former self. Dropping down, the first thing you notice is the sheer scale – her wingspan is impressive, even without the engines which now rest separately on the sand. Inside the cockpit, we’ve found old munition belts and machine guns, details that really bring home the history. Visibility here averages around 12m, sometimes less, but it adds to the atmosphere, a slightly muted blue that feels just right for a war grave. Our favourite moments are usually spent checking out the fusiliers, which often school so tightly around the wings they almost obscure them, and the resident banded maori wrasse that seems to guard the tail section. It’s an easy dive, down to about 22m, suitable for anyone comfortable with slightly reduced visibility. Just keep an eye out for the lionfish – they’re always lurking.

Location
Komodo, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-8.509000, 119.609500
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 Manta Point , Makassar Reef

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 Manta Point , Makassar Reef

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 diving depth at Manta Point, Makassar Reef?
The typical diving depth at Manta Point, Makassar Reef is between 10-15 meters, with a maximum depth of 15 meters. This makes it an accessible site for various certification levels, allowing divers to enjoy the vibrant marine life in shallower waters.
Besides manta rays, what other marine life can divers expect to see at Manta Point, Makassar Reef?
Beyond the magnificent manta rays, divers at Manta Point, Makassar Reef can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life. Keep an eye out for sharks, eagle rays, and graceful turtles, alongside schools of bumphead parrot fish. You might also spot smaller fascinating creatures like gobies and flasher wrasses, adding to the rich biodiversity of this site. For more information on marine species, visit DivePlnr's wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Manta Point, Makassar Reef, and is it suitable for beginners?
Manta Point, Makassar Reef is considered suitable for beginner divers and snorkelers, making it an excellent choice for those new to the sport. The dive typically involves a gentle drift, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable experience while observing the abundant marine life.
What is the best time of year to dive at Manta Point, Makassar Reef for the highest chance of manta ray sightings and good conditions?
Manta Point, Makassar Reef is a fantastic dive destination that can be enjoyed all year round. While manta ray sightings are consistently good, the year-round accessibility ensures divers have ample opportunities to experience this incredible site. For more general information on dive conditions, you can consult DivePlnr's when-to-dive guide.
What dive certifications are required to dive at Manta Point, Makassar Reef?
Given that Manta Point, Makassar Reef is suitable for beginner divers, an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally sufficient to explore this site. Its gentle drift and moderate depth of 10-15 meters make it accessible for those with foundational diving skills. Always check with your dive operator for specific requirements.
What are the typical current and water conditions like for diving at Manta Point, Makassar Reef?
Diving at Manta Point, Makassar Reef typically involves a gentle drift, providing a relaxed experience as you glide along the reef. The average visibility is excellent, usually around 15 meters, allowing for clear views of the abundant marine life. These favorable conditions contribute to a comfortable and rewarding dive.