Dive Site: Dream Maker

About Dream Maker

Dream Maker is a captivating dive site situated on the main reef's point in Fiji, featuring a dynamic topography rich with numerous crevices and swim-throughs. The dive begins in shallow waters at 3 meters and gently slopes down to a maximum depth of 24 meters, making it accessible for most experience levels and even suitable for confident snorkelers. This site boasts a stunning array of soft and hard corals, complemented by large sea fans and sponges, which provide shelter and food for a diverse ecosystem. Divers can expect a wealth of marine life, including various reef sharks and sea turtles, along with numerous smaller, interesting creatures. Dream Maker is celebrated for its excellent photographic opportunities, catering to both wide-angle enthusiasts capturing the expansive reef scenes and macro photographers focusing on the smaller, hidden gems. It is a site that can be enjoyed at any time, promising a rewarding experience with every visit. Located near Rakiraki on Viti Levu, the site is part of Fiji's "Soft Coral Capital of the World" reputation, attributed to nutrient-rich currents that foster thriving coral growth. This makes Dream Maker a prime example of the vibrant and healthy reef systems found in the region.

Dive site facts: Dream Maker

Depth

3–24 m

Typical dive

19 m, ~50 min

Current

Moderate (Fiji overall)

Visibility

16.3 m (Fiji average)

Water temperature

25–29°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Suitable for most levels

Dive type

Reef, wall, drift, macro, wide-angle

Night dive

Not specified, but night diving is available at select Fiji sites

Region / port

Rakiraki, Viti Levu, Fiji

Coordinates

-17.5728, 115.701

Conditions & Currents

Information specific to currents at Dream Maker is not provided in the sources beyond a general statement that the site "can be dived at anytime." However, Fiji as a whole is known for moderate currents, a factor that contributes to the health and vibrancy of its soft coral reefs. These currents, which are nutrient-rich, can vary in strength depending on tidal movements and local topography, allowing soft corals to thrive. Divers should be prepared for potential drift conditions and follow dive guide instructions closely, especially when exploring features like reef points where currents might be more pronounced. This variability means careful planning and awareness of your surroundings are always recommended.

Marine life & sighting chances

Ornate ghost pipefish

common

Green sea turtle

common

Hawksbill sea turtle

common

Octopus

March, September · occasional

Blacktip reef shark

common

Whitetip reef shark

common

Anemonefish

common

Nudibranch

common

Wrasse

common

Moray eel

common

Clownfish

common

Butterfly fish

common

Parrotfish

common

Angelfish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at Dream Maker typically begins with a boat entry onto the main reef point, descending into approximately 3 meters of water. From this shallow start, you'll follow the reef as it gradually slopes down to a maximum depth of 24 meters. The profile encourages slow exploration to fully appreciate the numerous crevices and swim-throughs that characterize this site. Pay close attention to the reef's topography, which is rich with soft and hard corals, sea fans, and sponges, providing ample hiding spots for marine life. Divers are advised to keep an eye out for both larger pelagics, such as blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, and smaller macro subjects like ornate ghost pipefish and nudibranchs. The dive concludes with a gradual ascent, allowing for a safety stop at 5 meters, often still surrounded by active reef life.

Underwater photography

Dream Maker offers excellent and varied photography opportunities, appealing to both wide-angle and macro enthusiasts. For wide-angle shots, a fisheye or wide-angle lens will help capture the expansive reef topography, including the colorful soft and hard coral formations, large sea fans, and scenic swim-throughs. The presence of green and hawksbill sea turtles, as well as reef sharks, provides dynamic subjects for these broader compositions. For macro photography, a dedicated macro lens is essential to focus on the smaller, intricate details of ornate ghost pipefish, various nudibranchs, and other elusive critters tucked within the crevices. Patience is key, especially when seeking out these camouflaged subjects. Maintain excellent buoyancy to avoid disturbing the delicate coral structures and marine life, and move slowly through the site to maximize your chances of spotting unique subjects. A focus light can also be beneficial for bringing out the vibrant colors of the smaller invertebrates.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Golden Dream

  Part of a larger site combined with Breath Taker, featuring pinnacles and swim-throughs.

• Chile

  Known for coral heads, a decorated swim-through, and excellent visibility.

• Mellow Yellow

  Famous for two pinnacles covered in stunning soft coral, extending to 40 meters.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Dream Maker is typically facilitated through dive resorts located on Viti Levu, such as those near Rakiraki. The nearest major international airport is Nadi International Airport (NAN), from which transfers to resorts can take approximately 2.5 hours. Dive trips to Dream Maker are usually conducted via day boats, often as part of a multi-dive itinerary exploring the diverse sites of the region. While specific permit fees for Dream Maker are not detailed, it's advisable to check with your chosen operator regarding any potential marine park fees. Diving the sites around Rakiraki offers a chance to experience Fiji's renowned soft coral capital, often combined with other notable sites in the Bligh Waters, providing a comprehensive Fijian diving experience.

Safety & environment

While diving Dream Maker, standard safety protocols are essential. There is no information provided about the nearest recompression chamber specifically for Dream Maker; however, divers in Fiji should be aware that medical facilities, including recompression chambers, might be located on the main islands, potentially requiring significant evacuation time. Comprehensive dive accident insurance, such as through DAN, is highly recommended for all divers. Site-specific hazards are minimal, but divers should maintain excellent buoyancy control to navigate crevices and swim-throughs without damaging the delicate coral. Pay attention to your dive guide, especially if currents are present, and always monitor your air consumption and no-decompression limits. The site is suitable for most experience levels, but being comfortable with deeper profiles up to 24 meters is beneficial.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Dream Maker FAQ

Liveaboards diving Dream Maker

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

Nai'a

Fiji

16 guests36.576 m

$547/day