Francisco Reef
Protected Area
Teluk Mayalibit (Raja Ampat)
Why dive here
With 236+ marine species recorded in the area - including blacktip reef sharks, manta rays, mobula rays (devil rays), pygmy seahorses and sea turtles - Francisco Reef offers some of Raja Ampat's richest wall diving. Water ranges 29-30°C, warmest May, November, December.
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.
Safety Notes
Strong currents typical this month (avg 35 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.
Nearest Dive Centres to Francisco Reef
Dive shops near Francisco Reef
Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort
Tarzan-Diving
Raja Ampat dive resort
Scuba republic
Papua Diving - Kri Eco Resort
Yenkoranu Homestay
Reviews for Francisco Reef
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Francisco Reef
Francisco Reef Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Francisco Reef, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-0.5, 130.6) (0km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
30°C
86°F · Range: 29.2–30.9°C
Current Speed
34.71 cm/s
Direction: NW (311.5°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.138 mg/m³
Clear water
Salinity
34.33 PSU
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)
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