Drift Diving in Komodo: Ride the Currents 🌊
Komodo is famous for its powerful currents. For the prepared diver, it's like flying underwater. Here is everything you need to know to safely enjoy the ride and spot the giants.
Why Komodo is the Drift Capital 🌏
Located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Komodo sits at the heart of the Indonesian Throughflow. This natural funnel pushes huge volumes of water through narrow straits, creating nutrient-rich currents.
It’s this constant movement that feeds the coral and attracts the big action: Manta Rays, Sharks, and Giant Trevallies come here to feed in the flow.
What You Need to Know ⚙️
Drift diving isn't just about letting go; it requires active awareness.
- Experience Level
- Advanced (AOW) Recommended
- Essential Gear
- Reef Hook & SMB
- Key Skill
- Negative Entry
- Rule #1
- Never fight the current
The "Negative Entry" Explained
Many drift dives in Komodo require a Negative Entry. This means rolling off the boat with an empty BCD, finding your buddy underwater, and descending immediately to the reef. This prevents you from drifting away from the site at the surface.
Legendary Drift Sites 🗺️
Ready to fly? Here are the top spots where the current is the main attraction.
The "Shotgun" channel pulls you through a narrow passage between islands. Pure adrenaline with sharks and trevallies.
See Site Guide →A pinnacle in the blue. We hook in at the "split" point to watch the shark action, then drift along the sheltered side.
See Site Guide →A gentle "flying" drift over rubble. Perfect for watching Mantas cruise effortlessly against the flow.
See Site Guide →A fast drift along a beautiful wall. Great for finishing a day with a fun, high-speed ride.
View Map →Safety First — The Dragon Dive Way 🛡️
Currents can be unpredictable (upwellings, down-currents). At Dragon Dive Komodo, we never guess.
- Tide Checks: We plan sites based on tide charts to ensure the current is optimal (not dangerous).
- Briefings: We explain exactly what to do if separated and how to use your SMB.
- Group Ratios: Small groups ensure you are never far from your guide.