Dive Site: Bora Bora - Tapu

About Bora Bora - Tapu

Tapu, located in Bora Bora, is a prominent dive site known for its thrilling shark encounters and diverse marine life. This site is situated about a kilometer from the Teavanui pass, on the outer slope of the reef, making it a critical location for shark-based ecotourism in French Polynesia. The topography at Tapu features dramatic drop-offs, ledges, and impressive coral structures that create hiding spots for smaller reef fish and provide a dynamic environment for divers. While some dives at Tapu are conducted as drift dives, others involve more stationary observation of the abundant marine life. Depths here can reach approximately 30 meters (98 feet), catering to a range of diving experiences. Divers frequently encounter blacktip and lemon sharks, which are a major draw to the site. The presence of these sharks can vary, with large numbers sometimes appearing at the surface due to nearby snorkel boat feeding activities before descending. Beyond sharks, the site hosts flittering eagle rays near reef mouths, moray eels, and various reef fish. Visibility at Tapu can be excellent, often exceeding 40 meters (130 feet). Tapu offers varied dive experiences, from high-adrenaline shark interactions to serene drift dives. It is accessible for guided dives, and while the presence of large sharks can be initially anxiety-inducing, they generally maintain a distance from divers, especially without baiting, making it a safe experience. The site is suitable for divers looking for a wide range of marine life and exciting encounters.

Dive site facts: Bora Bora - Tapu

Depth

Up to 30 m

Current

Can be present

Visibility

Up to 30 m

Water temperature

26–29°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water

Dive type

Reef, shark encounters

Region / port

Bora Bora, Society Islands

Coordinates

-16.4833, -151.75

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Tapu can be present, and while often manageable, divers should be prepared for varying conditions, especially if venturing deeper or closer to channel entrances. Visibility is consistently excellent, often reaching up to 30 meters, providing clear views of the abundant marine life and coral formations. Water temperatures are comfortably warm, ranging from 26-29°C throughout the year, making a 3mm wetsuit or rash guard suitable. Entry to the dive site is typically by boat, allowing for easy access to the prime diving areas. Divers should maintain good buoyancy control to navigate the coral structures and to safely observe the pelagic species.

Marine life & sighting chances

Blacktip reef shark

common

Lemon shark

common

Eagle ray

occasional

Napoleon wrasse

occasional

Reef manta ray

June–November · occasional

Parrotfish

common

Butterflyfish

common

Angelfish

common

Wrasses

common

Green sea turtle

occasional

Moray eels

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Tapu typically begins with a boat entry onto the reef. Divers descend to explore the coral structures and look for schooling fish, often encountering blacktip and lemon sharks at various depths. The dive usually proceeds along the reef, where depths can reach up to 30 meters, allowing for exploration of the diverse marine life within recreational limits. The route is often guided by the dive master, focusing on areas with known shark activity and vibrant coral gardens. Turnaround is determined by gas consumption or dive time, followed by a gradual ascent. A safety stop is conducted at 5 meters for three minutes, usually along a shallower part of the reef, before surfacing for boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Tapu offers excellent opportunities for underwater photography, particularly for wide-angle shots to capture the schooling sharks and extensive coral landscapes. A fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the impressive scale of the site. External strobes are highly recommended to bring out the natural colors of the corals and reef fish, especially when shooting at deeper sections. Given the potential for currents and the presence of dynamic marine life like sharks, maintaining excellent buoyancy control is crucial for stable shots. When photographing sharks, allow them space and avoid sudden movements to capture their natural behavior without causing disturbance.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Bora Bora - Anau

  Known for its manta ray cleaning station and consistent manta sightings.

• Moorea - Tiki Point

  Features a stone Tiki statue and attracts numerous fish and various shark species.

• Moorea - The Canyons

  Offers impressive lava structures and alleys with abundant sharks, rays, and turtles.

• Bora Bora - Tupitipiti

  Celebrated for its unique underwater topography, deep drop-offs, and vibrant purple corals.

• Bora Bora - White Valley

  A deeper site with a coral plateau and sandbank, attracting grey reef sharks, tuna, and jacks.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Bora Bora is primarily through Faa'a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti, followed by a domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). Dive trips to Tapu typically depart from dive centers located around Bora Bora. Many operators offer day excursions or multi-day packages that combine dives across various Bora Bora sites, and sometimes extend to other Society Islands. There are no specific park fees for diving at Tapu, but standard dive operator costs apply. Divers often stay at resorts or guesthouses on Bora Bora, making it convenient for daily dive trips. Booking multi-dive packages can offer better value.

Safety & environment

The nearest recompression chamber for French Polynesia is located in Tahiti, which means medical evacuation from Bora Bora involves domestic air travel, potentially adding significant time in an emergency. Divers must ensure they possess comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. At Tapu, site-specific hazards are minimal for experienced divers, but always follow your dive guide's instructions and remain within your certification limits. While currents can be present, they are generally manageable, but good buoyancy control is essential. Always dive with a reputable operator, and ensure all gear is checked before each dive.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Bora Bora - Tapu FAQ

Liveaboards diving Bora Bora - Tapu

These liveaboards may visit Bora Bora - Tapu on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Aqua Tiki II

French Polynesia

8 guests

$578/day

Aqua Tiki III

French Polynesia

10 guests20 m

$504/day