Dive Site: Kidu

About Kidu

Kidu is the designation given to a small sailboat wreck located near Nosy-Bé in Madagascar, in the Mitsio Archipelago area. It rests on the seabed in close proximity to the larger Zaida cargo barge wreck, making both accessible for exploration in a single dive. These wrecks, now artificial reefs, serve as important habitats within the diverse underwater landscape of Madagascar, known for its extensive coastlines and varied marine environments. The Kidu, along with the nearby Zaida, lies at a depth of 28 meters. Its modest size as a small sailboat allows divers to explore its structure, which has become covered with marine growth. The site is characterized by an abundance of macrofauna, offering a detailed perspective on the smaller, often overlooked inhabitants of the reef. Marine life at Kidu is rich, with glassfish congregating amidst concretionary sponges. Divers can observe scorpionfish, flying gurnards, nudibranchs, and flatworms, all contributing to a colorful and diverse ecosystem. The presence of such a variety of macro life makes the site particularly rewarding for close-up observation. This dive is typically combined with the Zaida wreck, offering a dual wreck experience. Due to its depth and the need for careful navigation around the wreck structures, the Kidu dive is best suited for certified advanced divers. It provides an opportunity to appreciate both historical elements and vibrant marine biodiversity in a single outing.

Dive site facts: Kidu

Depth

0–28 m

Current

Moderate

Entry

Liveaboard or dayboat

Level

Advanced

Dive type

Wreck, Reef

Region / port

Madagascar

Coordinates

13.2450° S, 48.0400° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at most dive sites in the Nosy-Bé region, including Kidu, are generally mild or absent, providing comfortable diving conditions. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 40 meters, though it can be on the lower side during the whale shark season between October and December due to increased plankton. Water temperatures are warm, ranging from 24°C to 30°C. Due to the wreck's depth of 28 meters and the proximity to another wreck, this site requires an advanced certification for safe exploration and proper gas planning is advisable.