Fiji

Dive Site: Namalata Reef

Beginner Reef
© EsriSource: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar, GIS Community · Labels © Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS

Which liveaboards dive Namalata Reef?

About Namalata Reef

Namalata Reefs are a collection of dive sites situated in the northern part of Kadavu Island, Fiji, specifically north of Vunisea. This region is part of the larger Kadavu archipelago, a destination celebrated for its untouched underwater environment and being off the main tourist paths. The reefs contribute to Kadavu's reputation for world-class scuba diving, offering a pristine example of the rich marine biodiversity found in Fiji. The topography of the Namalata reefs is not explicitly detailed, but generally, dive sites around Kadavu feature extensive barrier reefs and fringing reefs that often include caves, caverns, swim-throughs, and dramatic walls. Depths can vary, with areas accessible for recreational diving and others extending beyond 40 meters, hinting at diverse underwater landscapes. The waters surrounding Kadavu, including Namalata, are known for a healthy population of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter large pelagic species, schooling barracudas, and turtles. Manta rays are also commonly sighted in the general Kadavu area. The entire Fijian archipelago, often called the "Soft Coral Capital of the World," boasts an impressive array of 390 species of soft and hard corals, alongside 1,200 species of fish. While specific current and entry details for Namalata Reefs are not provided, diving in the area is typically accessible from local resorts. These sites are often best explored with a local guide who can ensure optimal timing for the best experience. The dive sites cater to a range of experience levels, from beginner to advanced, making it suitable for many divers.

Highlights

Large pelagic speciesSchooling barracudasNumerous sea turtlesVibrant soft coralsAbundant reef fishManta ray encounters

Season calendar

Best months to dive here
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Excellent
Good
Off-Season

May – Oct

Dry season with best visibility up to 35m. Cooler water brings manta rays. Peak soft coral season.

Apr & Nov

Transition months with good conditions. Fewer tourists and competitive liveaboard rates.

Dec – Mar

Wet season with higher rainfall and reduced visibility. Warmer water. Cyclone season possible.

Dive site facts: Namalata Reef

Depth
25 m
Current
No current
Entry
Liveaboard or dayboat
Level
Beginner
Dive type
Reef, Pinnacle, Reef
Region / port
Fiji
Coordinates
17.4658° S, 115.5690° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at dive sites around Fiji, including the Kadavu region, range from non-existent to very strong, influenced by local topography and tidal patterns. Local guides are highly recommended to ensure diving at the optimal time for the best experience, especially in areas where currents can be significant. Surface conditions are generally calm, though they can become choppy further from shore, particularly from July to September. Water temperatures typically range from 28-30°C in summer (November to April) and drop to 22-25°C in winter (May to October), which affects plankton levels and thus visibility. Visibility can be excellent, often between 15 to 40 meters, but may decrease due to plankton blooms in warmer months or freshwater runoff during the rainy season from December to March. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions and consider a 3mm wetsuit in warmer months or a 5mm suit during cooler periods. These dynamic conditions mean the site can accommodate divers from beginner to advanced levels, depending on the specific location and prevailing currents.

Why dive Namalata Reef from a liveaboard?

Namalata Reef is one of Fiji's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and puts you in the water for three to four guided dives per day, including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.

Below are the liveaboards that include Namalata Reef on their Fiji itineraries.

Liveaboards diving Namalata Reef

These liveaboards may visit Namalata Reef on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Nai'a liveaboard at Namalata Reef

Nai'a

Fiji

16 guests37 m

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Ahe Atoll

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Depth
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Theme
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Access
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Depth
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Theme
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Alibaba

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Depth
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Theme
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Aliko Reef

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Aliko Reef is a prominent dive site within Yap, Micronesia, characterized by a captivating underwater topography that blends a mini-wall with an expansive coral plateau.

Suitable for
Intermediate
Current
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Access
Dayboat
Depth
6–15 m
Theme
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Amity Point

Australia

Amity Point is a popular shore diving destination located at the northwestern tip of North Stradbroke Island, within the protected waters of Moreton Bay.

Suitable for
Beginner
Current
Moderate
Access
Shore / dayboat
Depth
5–15 m
Theme
Reef

Dive Namalata Reef from a liveaboard.

Three to four guided dives a day on Namalata Reef and the other signature sites in Fiji, sleeping right above the reef.