Dive Site: The Arches

About The Arches

Les Arches de Sakatia, located near Nosy Be, is a captivating dive site characterized by distinctive underwater architecture. The main feature is a series of impressive rock formations, including three prominent arches situated at depths of 19 to 20 meters, which then lead to a smaller arch on a 15-meter plateau. These structures rise dramatically from a sandy seabed at 23 to 24 meters. The site is a vibrant habitat for diverse marine species, attracting both pelagic enthusiasts and macro photographers. Large animals such as whitetip reef sharks and manta rays are frequently sighted, cruising through the arches or along the deeper sandy areas. Simultaneously, the intricate rock surfaces and crevices harbor an abundance of smaller creatures, making it a rich spot for detailed observation. Optimal diving conditions, including excellent visibility and less intense currents, are typically found during the dry season from April to October. The Arches can present moderate to strong currents, particularly during the wet season, requiring careful buoyancy control and an intermediate skill level. This site offers a unique combination of dramatic topography and abundant marine life for a memorable dive experience.

Dive site facts: The Arches

Depth

12–24 m

Current

Moderate to strong

Visibility

15–40 m

Water temperature

24–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Intermediate

Dive type

Reef, arches, pelagic, macro

Region / port

Nosy Be, Madagascar

Coordinates

13.2485° S, 48.0683° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at The Arches can be variable, ranging from weak to moderate, but they can become strong, especially during the wet season from November to March. Navigating the arches and plateaus requires careful attention to buoyancy and good current awareness, making the site more suitable for intermediate divers. Visibility is generally very good, often between 15 to 40 meters, but it can decrease during whale shark season from October to December due to increased plankton, which paradoxically attracts large pelagics. Water temperature remains pleasantly warm, typically ranging from 24°C to 30°C throughout the year, so a 3mm to 5mm wetsuit is usually sufficient. Divers should be prepared for potential drift and plan their gas consumption accordingly, especially when strong currents are present.

Marine life & sighting chances

Whitetip reef shark

occasional

Manta ray

occasional

Scorpionfish

occasional

Ornate ghostpipefish

occasional

Leaf scorpionfish

occasional

Flathead

occasional

Stonefish

occasional

Fusilier

common

Surgeonfish

common

Batfish

common

Barracuda

common

Green turtle

common

Hawksbill turtle

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically access The Arches by boat. The dive begins by descending to the main rock formations, where three prominent arches are found at depths of 19 to 20 meters. After exploring these larger structures, the route often continues along a plateau at approximately 15 meters, leading to a smaller arch. The sandy bottom around the arches ranges from 23 to 24 meters, providing opportunities to spot bottom-dwelling macro life and larger pelagics passing through. Navigation requires careful buoyancy control due to the intricate formations and potential currents. The dive progresses by circling the main structures, observing both the dramatic landscape and the diverse marine inhabitants. The safety stop is usually conducted in the shallower sections of the plateau or along the reef, allowing divers to enjoy the vibrant coral life before ascending back to the surface.

Underwater photography

The Arches offers diverse photographic opportunities, catering to both wide-angle and macro photographers. For capturing the impressive rock formations and the potential presence of pelagic species like manta rays and sharks, a wide-angle lens is ideal. Be prepared for varying light conditions as you move through and around the arches; external strobes can help illuminate the darker areas and bring out coral colors. Macro enthusiasts will thrive here, with numerous small inhabitants such as leaf scorpionfish, ghostpipefish, stonefish, and flatheads. A macro lens with a diopter or close-up filters will be essential for these subjects. Excellent buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing delicate marine life and to navigate the currents while composing shots. Patience is key for macro subjects, allowing them to settle before attempting a shot. Consider bringing a focus light for spotting camouflaged critters.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Paroi des Merou

  Paroi des Merou, meaning "Grouper Wall," is a distinguished dive site off Madagascar's coast, characterized by its dramatic wall topography.

• Roland Point

  Roland Point is a celebrated dive site situated within the Nosy Be region of Madagascar, famed for its exceptional biodiversity and clear…

• Mitsio Wreck

  The Mitsio Wreck lies on the seabed of the Mitsio Archipelago, a pristine and secluded diving destination off Madagascar's northwest coast.

• Manta Point

  Manta Point is a world-renowned dive site located off the southern shore of Nusa Penida, famous as a cleaning station for oceanic manta…

• Abyss

  The dive site known as "Abyss" is not specifically mentioned or described in the provided sources.

• Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve

  Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve is a protected marine area situated in the middle of Nosy Be Bay, off Madagascar's northwest coast.

Getting there & logistics

Diving at The Arches is typically organized through dive centers based in Nosy Be, Madagascar, which serve as the primary departure point. Most dive operations are land-based resort centers, offering boat access to the dive sites. Nosy Be is accessible via Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo, followed by a domestic flight to Fascene Airport (NOS) on Nosy Be. Trip lengths can vary, with many packages offering 6-night stays including multiple dives. While there are no specific park fees mentioned for The Arches, environmental contributions may apply depending on the operator. Dive trips often combine The Arches with other renowned sites in the Nosy Be region, such as Nosy Tanikely, Manta Point, and Abyss, allowing divers to experience a variety of marine environments and species.

Safety & environment

For dive emergencies in the Nosy Be region, the nearest hyperbaric chamber is located directly in Nosy Be. It is strongly recommended that all divers visiting Madagascar have comprehensive dive insurance, such as DAN Europe, in addition to standard travel insurance, to cover potential medical emergencies and evacuation costs. Site-specific hazards at The Arches include potential strong currents, particularly during certain seasons, which require divers to maintain good buoyancy control and follow their dive guide closely. The varied depth profile, reaching up to 24 meters, necessitates careful gas planning and adherence to no-decompression limits. Divers should be aware of potential encounters with marine life such as whitetip reef sharks and stonefish; maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding contact is crucial. Always dive with a reputable operator and ensure your equipment is well-maintained.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

The Arches FAQ