Chicken Reef - Raja Ampat

Golden Rock, just off Lombok, is our pick for a really good drift. It’s a 10-minute boat ride after a drive from Amed, and we’ve found the currents here range from a gentle push to a proper zip. You drop in around 5-10 metres, and the reef just slopes away to a max of 23m. We love how the coral here is so varied – lots of staghorn, but also some really interesting branch corals and big rocky outcrops where things hide. We've spotted hawksbill and green turtles cruising by, completely unfazed, and the sweetlips schools here are always a highlight – oriental, harlequin, the lot. Look closely among the coral and you might catch an eye-spotted eubranchus or a tiny cheekscale dwarfgoby. Visibility averages 22m, which is usually more than enough to appreciate the schools of glassy cardinalfish shimmering in the blue. It’s a site that suits divers comfortable with current, offering a relaxed flow with plenty to see without having to fin too hard.

Location
Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-0.544300, 130.693900
Type
drift

Marine Protected Area: TAMAN WISATA PERAIRAN KEPULAUAN RAJA AMPAT

Best Time to Dive in Raja Ampat

The warmest water temperatures in Raja Ampat occur in November, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in July at 29.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.7°C
  • February: 29.4°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 29.9°C
  • May: 29.9°C
  • June: 29.7°C
  • July: 29.3°C
  • August: 29.4°C
  • September: 29.6°C
  • October: 30.0°C
  • November: 30.3°C
  • December: 30.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Raja Ampat

Nearest Dive Centres to Chicken Reef

Marine Life in Raja Ampat

Home to 250 recorded species including 176 reef fish, 43 hard corals, 8 seagrass & algae, 5 sea cucumbers, 4 clams & mussels, 4 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Chicken Reef

Based on average water temperature of 29.7°C, currents 20 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°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 Chicken Reef?
The maximum depth at Chicken Reef is 22 meters. As a shallow reef dive, you can expect to explore vibrant coral formations and marine life within this range. This depth makes it accessible for various experience levels, though conditions should always be considered.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Chicken Reef?
Divers at Chicken Reef can expect to encounter large numbers of fusiliers and other colourful fish, which thrive among the coral formations. Keep a keen eye out for fascinating macro life such as pipefish, pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, flatworms, and various interesting crabs and shrimps. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Chicken Reef, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Chicken Reef is considered intermediate in difficulty, primarily due to its strong currents and status as a drift dive. Therefore, it is not typically recommended for beginner divers who may not have experience with such conditions. Divers should be comfortable with drift diving techniques.
What is the best time of year or tidal condition to dive Chicken Reef?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or particular tidal conditions for diving at Chicken Reef. For general information on dive seasons in Indonesia, you might consult our When to Dive section. Always check local conditions with your dive operator before planning your trip.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for Chicken Reef?
While specific certification requirements are not listed, given the intermediate difficulty and strong currents at Chicken Reef, it is highly recommended that divers have an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Experience with drift diving is also beneficial to safely enjoy this site. Always dive within your training and comfort level.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Chicken Reef?
Chicken Reef is well-known for its strong currents, making it an exciting drift dive. Despite the currents, divers can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 19 meters, offering clear views of the vibrant marine life. These conditions contribute to a dynamic and rewarding dive experience.