The Komodo National Park in Indonesia is well known by scuba divers worldwide. Its biodiversity and abundance of marine life are awe-inspiring! However, the strong winds of Komodo and the Rinca Strait are also known for their strong currents due to their location being between the Pacific and the Indian Ocean.
The currents and more challenging conditions often cause beginner divers to question whether Komodo is a suitable destination for them. The answer to this is yes – with some careful planning and an awareness of the region. Beginners can absolutely dive in Komodo and enjoy all that this phenomenal region has to offer, both underwater and on land. In fact, many divers started their Scuba Diving journey in Komodo National Park. Read more about the highlights awaiting beginners diving in Komodo here.
Here are our tips for Beginners Diving in Komodo…
Where to stay?
The first question for beginners diving in Komodo is where they plan to stay. There are two main options, stay on land, resort, or hotel, or take to the ocean and stay onboard a liveaboard.
If you choose to stay on land, the harbor town of Labuan Bajo is most likely the best choice. There are multiple options and numerous dive centers and dive resorts to choose from. Look for a PADI Dive Center with PADI Instructors on the team, let them know your experience level, and ask if they can accommodate you.
With instructors on hand, you’ll also have the opportunity to advance your skills through either the Advanced Open Water Course or the Drift Diver Specialty Course while you are there. Learn more about the difference between the Open Water Course and the Advanced Open Water course here.
If you decide to explore by liveaboard, let them know how many dives you have under your belt and your certification level. Ask if they usually accommodate beginners and if they can do so. If possible, look for a smaller boat so you have a more personal experience. Also, ask if there are other beginners on the trip and what dive sites they plan to visit. Don’t be afraid to question what your options are when they are diving the more challenging sites. You may also be able to request a private guide – check with the boat before confirming your booking.
Revisit Your Training
Before traveling to Indonesia, you can better prepare by revisiting your initial dive training. Review your Open Water Diver training and book a PADI Reactivate program with your local dive center at home. During the PADI Reactivate program, you will review your initial training and practice your dive skills again in the pool. If possible, it’s also a good idea to book a fun dive after the reactivate.
Mentally Prepare Yourself For Diving
Several dive incidents occur due to panic and mental unreadiness. Prepare yourself mentally to slow down and take everything easy underwater. Practice relaxing and controlling your breathing. Remember that you don’t want to waste your energy on unnecessary movements.
Prepare Your Gear
Knowing that your gear is in good condition and well-fitting increases your confidence levels. Get your gear serviced and check over it yourself to remember some basics, such as monitoring your SPG.
Review Safety Practices
Many safety practices will be covered during your PADI Reactivate, but remember to check your SPG frequently and plan to take a safety stop. Recall to stay close to your buddy and make sure you are equipped with a signaling device and are familiar with using it.
3 Best Dive Sites in and around Komodo for Beginners
The Komodo National Park generally consists of dives with currents. Still, some top dive sites for beginner divers are also less challenging and equally rewarding with stunning underwater scenes.
- Crystal Bay
This is an excellent alternative for beginners to Crystal Rock. You’ll find an array of colorful tropical fish species, including lionfish, damselfish, butterflyfish, trumpetfish, and moray eels.
- Sebayur Kecil
This sloping reef site is well protected from the high tides. It extends down to a max depth of 18 meters/60 feet (ideal for open water divers). The site is filled with beautiful coral bommies, and you can expect to see crocodile fish, angelfish, trumpetfish, and a variety of nudibranch.
- Sabolon Kecil
Even though this dive site is not in the Komodo National Park, it’s worth mentioning since it is an absolute must-dive site for beginners and experienced divers alike. Sabolon Kecil, located North of Labuan Bajo, reveals various marine life, including reef sharks, frogfish, snappers, and tuna. You never know what will swim through next!
Check out PADI Travel and book your Komodo adventure online!
