Scuba diving in West Timor, Rote Island
West Timor Rote Island offers a unique diving experience with its diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs. The best time to dive in Rote Island is from April to November when the weather conditions are ideal for diving. The visibility during this time is usually good, ranging from 15 to 30 meters, making it an ideal place for both beginner and experienced divers.
Best scuba diving spots for experienced divers:
One of the best diving spots for experienced divers in Rote Island is the T-Land. It is located on the southern coast of Rote Island and is known for its incredible visibility and strong currents. Other popular spots include the Sucky, Boa, and Nembrala Beach. These spots offer a chance to see various types of sharks, such as reef sharks, hammerheads, and even tiger sharks.
Best scuba diving spots for beginners:
For beginners, the best diving spots in Rote Island are around the Ndao Island. The dive sites around the island are usually calm and shallow, with an abundance of marine life. The Oenggaut site, located on the north coast of Ndao Island, is known for its stunning coral formations, which are home to a variety of colorful fish species.
Marine life:
Rote Island's marine life includes a diverse range of fish species such as barracudas, manta rays, hammerheads, and various species of sharks. The coral reefs are also home to sea turtles, lobsters, and crabs. It is also possible to see dolphins and whales on rare occasions.
Dive conditions:
The water temperature in Rote Island ranges from 26°C to 29°C, making it ideal for diving throughout the year. The visibility can be affected by weather conditions and currents, but it usually ranges from 15 to 30 meters. The currents in some of the diving spots can be strong, so it is essential to be aware of the dive conditions and follow the advice of experienced dive guides.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Rote Island varies depending on the dive center, dive packages, and rental equipment. On average, a single dive can cost between $35 to $50 USD. Diving packages are available for those who want to do multiple dives, which can cost around $150 to $250 USD for five dives.