Dive Site: Cape Kri

About Cape Kri

Cape Kri, situated off the northern tip of Kri Island in Raja Ampat's Dampier Strait, is a legendary dive site renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity. It gained fame when marine biologist Dr. Gerald Allen recorded an astonishing 374 fish species in a single dive here, setting a world record and cementing its status as one of Earth’s richest reefs. This site lies at the convergence of powerful ocean currents from the Pacific, which continuously deliver nutrient-rich waters, nurturing a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem. The topography features a sloping reef that descends from a few meters down to 40 meters, transitioning into a plateau adorned with an abundance of hard and soft corals, large sponges, and gorgonian sea fans. The upper reef provides an ideal setting for extended safety stops, bathed in sunlight and teeming with life. Dives often begin on the western side of the site, following the reef face, with potential use of reef hooks to observe the action at shallower depths before drifting towards the ridge between Kri and Koh islands. Marine life is extraordinarily rich and diverse. Divers can expect to see large schools of fusiliers, jacks, and chevron barracudas, alongside sweetlips, snappers, and batfish populating the reef. Predators like blacktip and whitetip reef sharks are common, while macro enthusiasts can find pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, and various crustaceans. Hawksbill turtles are frequently observed, and even Napoleon wrasse, Queensland groupers, and bumphead parrotfish make appearances. Due to strong, nutrient-rich currents that can range from moderate to exhilarating, Cape Kri is best suited for intermediate to advanced divers. Most dives are planned around slack or incoming currents to maximize the experience. Visibility typically ranges from 20 to 30 meters, with water temperatures between 27-29°C year-round. Divers often experience drift dives, making buoyancy control and current awareness crucial for enjoying this vibrant, fast-paced environment.

Dive site facts: Cape Kri

Depth

5–40 m

Typical dive

18–30 m, 50–60 min (estimated)

Current

Moderate to strong

Visibility

20–30 m

Water temperature

27–29°C

Entry

Tender / negative entry recommended

Level

Intermediate to advanced (AOWD and current experience recommended)

Dive type

Drift, reef, wall

Night dive

Possible (check with operator)

Region / port

Raja Ampat, Dampier Strait

Coordinates

-0.5543, 130.6891

Conditions & Currents

Cape Kri is known for its strong, nutrient-rich currents, which vary from a gentle drift to full-on adrenaline depending on the tide. Dives are generally timed for slack or incoming currents to optimize the experience. During a rising tide, the current pushes clear water into the Dampier Strait, enhancing visibility and drawing in pelagic species. Divers might use reef hooks to hold position against the current and observe marine life, especially towards the eastern end of the site. Strong currents near the ridge between Kri and Koh islands can create a 'washing machine' effect or downcurrents, requiring careful attention during ascent and safety stops.

Marine life & sighting chances

Fusilier

common

Jack

common

Chevron barracuda

common

Sweetlips

common

Snapper

common

Batfish

common

Blacktip reef shark

common

Whitetip reef shark

common

Nudibranch

occasional

Pygmy seahorse

occasional

Napoleon wrasse

occasional

Bumphead parrotfish

early morning · occasional

Hawksbill turtle

occasional

Scorpionfish

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Cape Kri typically begins with a descent on the western side of the site, on the south of Kri Island, entering up current. Divers keep the reef to their left, following the sloping reef down to around 25 meters. The dive progresses as a drift along the reef face. As you approach the eastern end, the dive profile ascends, reaching approximately 10 meters. Here, divers can deploy reef hooks to observe the pelagic action in the current. The safety stop is performed as divers unhook and drift towards the ridge between Kri and Koh islands. If currents are strong, a second reef hook may be necessary at 5 meters to avoid being swept into potential down currents on the northern side.

Underwater photography

Cape Kri provides excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography, though conditions can be dynamic. The vibrant hard and soft corals, large sponges, and gorgonian sea fans create stunning reefscapes, best captured with wide-angle lenses, especially during peak season when clarity is high and sunlight illuminates the walls. For pelagic action, such as schooling fusiliers, jacks, barracudas, and sharks, be prepared for fast-moving subjects. Macro enthusiasts should look for nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, shrimps, and octopus camouflaged in the corals, especially in sheltered areas or slower current sections. Buoyancy control is crucial, particularly with strong currents, to avoid damaging the reef and to maintain stable shots. Consider strobes for color accuracy and to fill in shadows, ensuring you don't disturb marine life. Respect the environment and maintain a safe distance from subjects.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Manta Sandy

  Manta Sandy, situated in the Dampier Strait southeast of Arborek Island, is a celebrated dive site in Raja Ampat, globally recognised for…

• Blue Magic

  Blue Magic, nestled in the Dampier Strait of Raja Ampat, stands as a premier dive site globally, celebrated for its high-energy pelagic…

• Sardine Reef

  Sardine Reef is an iconic dive site nestled in the nutrient-rich Dampier Strait of Raja Ampat, near Kri Island.

• Yenbuba Jetty

  Yenbuba Jetty, located in the Dampier Strait on the east side of Mansuar Island, is a celebrated dive site in Raja Ampat renowned for its…

• Arborek Jetty

  Arborek Jetty, situated off the north coast of Arborek Island in Raja Ampat's Dampier Strait, offers a unique and accessible dive…

• Chicken Reef

  Chicken Reef, located in the Dampier Straits of Raja Ampat, Indonesia, stands as a captivating dive site renowned for its vibrant marine…

Getting there & logistics

Access to Cape Kri is primarily via liveaboard trips or resorts located in the Dampier Strait, Raja Ampat. The main gateway airport is Sorong (SOQ). From Sorong, liveaboards typically take 4-6 hours to reach the Dampier Strait. Most liveaboard itineraries range from 7 to 12 days, with 7-day trips often focusing on two of Raja Ampat's three main zones, including the Dampier Strait. A Raja Ampat Marine Park Entry Permit, costing approximately USD $100 and valid for one calendar year, is mandatory for all divers. Booking liveaboards 6-12 months in advance is recommended, especially for peak travel between December and March, due to high demand. Cape Kri is a staple on most Dampier Strait itineraries, often combined with other renowned sites in the region.

Safety & environment

Diving at Cape Kri requires careful attention to safety due to its strong, variable currents. Divers should possess good buoyancy control and experience with drift diving and negative entries. Reef hooks are often utilized to safely observe marine life in strong currents without exerting excessive energy or impacting the reef. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Waisai, Raja Ampat, which is typically several hours away by boat depending on sea conditions. Emergency evacuations can be complex and time-consuming, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Always dive with a reputable operator, follow your guide's instructions, and conduct thorough pre-dive checks. Pay close attention during safety stops, as strong currents can potentially sweep divers away.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Cape Kri FAQ

Liveaboards diving Cape Kri

These liveaboards may visit Cape Kri on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Jaya

Indonesia

14 guests23 m

$280/day

Wellenreng

Indonesia

9 guests25 m

$427/day

Blue Manta

Indonesia

20 guests45 m

$482/day

Mari

Indonesia

14 guests32.2 m

$328/day

Situju7

Komodo, Indonesia

10 guests32.7 m

$362/day

Pindito

Indonesia

16 guests37.79 m

$533/day

Mermaid II

Komodo, Indonesia

18 guests

$391/day

Pearl of Papua

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

14 guests30 m

$303/day

Aliikai Voyage

Indonesia

15 guests40 m

$658/day

Gaia Love

Alor

20 guests

$554/day

Emperor Raja Laut

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

12 guests31 m

$413/day

Ambai

Indonesia

16 guests32 m

$453/day