Dive Site: Sec de la Passe

Dive site facts: Sec de la Passe

Depth

15–40+ m

Current

Variable, can be strong

Visibility

10–40 m

Water temperature

27–29 °C

Entry

Boat

Level

Intermediate to Advanced

Dive type

Reef, Wall

Region / port

Gulf of Tadjoura, Djibouti

Coordinates

11.6667° N, 43.1° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Sec de la Passe can be variable and potentially strong, reflecting the dynamic water exchange between the Red Sea and Indian Ocean in the broader Djibouti region. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions, as exposed sites in Djibouti can experience significant tidal currents. A giant stride boat entry is typical, followed by a prompt descent to minimize surface drift. Divers must maintain excellent buoyancy control and stay close to the group, especially when drift diving techniques might be beneficial to navigate the currents. Visibility generally ranges from 10 to 40 meters, but can be reduced during periods of high plankton bloom. Always adhere to the dive briefing for specific site conditions and have a surface marker buoy (SMB) ready for deployment.

Marine life & sighting chances

Hard Corals

common

Soft Corals

common

Schools of Jacks

common

Schools of Snappers

common

Schools of Barracuda

common

Reef Fish

common

Grey Reef Sharks

common

Nurse Sharks

common

Dolphins

occasional

Pilot Whales

occasional

Whale Sharks

October to February · occasional

Manta Rays

October to February · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Sec de la Passe typically begin with a boat entry, usually a giant stride, followed by a swift descent to quickly reach the reef and minimize any surface drift, particularly if currents are present. The dive path generally follows the natural contours of the coral gardens and walls, guided by the dive leader who navigates the most interesting formations. Divers can expect to explore depths ranging from 15 to over 40 meters, observing the vibrant coral ecosystems. Turn points are determined by factors such as air consumption and no-decompression limits, after which the group will gradually ascend. The safety stop is conducted in shallower, calmer waters, often near the reef's crest, before surfacing to be collected by the tender or liveaboard. Maintaining good buoyancy and staying close to the group is crucial throughout the dive.

Underwater photography

Sec de la Passe is ideal for wide-angle photography, capturing the extensive coral gardens and walls, as well as schooling fish. A wide-angle lens will best convey the grandeur of the reef structures and diverse marine life. For close-up shots of the abundant reef fish and smaller invertebrates residing within the corals, a macro lens can yield excellent results. Given the potential for variable currents, precise buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing delicate corals and to achieve stable shots. Strobes are recommended to bring out the true colors of the corals and fish at depth. Always maintain a respectful distance from marine life and avoid touching the reef.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Arta Beach Reef

  Known for whale shark snorkeling, with pleasant easy diving on the reef itself.

• Moucha Island

  Features gentler reefs and coral gardens.

• Ghoubbet al Kharab

  Also known as Devil's Cauldron, renowned as a nursery for juvenile whale sharks and manta rays.

• Cape Rouge

  A site known for its pristine coral gardens and rich reef fish diversity.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Sec de la Passe is primarily via liveaboard trips departing from Djibouti. The main international gateway is Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport (JIB). Liveaboard itineraries typically span a week, combining sites in the Gulf of Tadjoura with other regions like the Seven Brothers archipelago. While specific permit fees for this site are generally integrated into liveaboard costs, divers should confirm any national park fees or dive taxes with their operator. The season from October to March is favored for optimal conditions and marine encounters.

Safety & environment

For diving in Djibouti, including Sec de la Passe, comprehensive dive insurance covering emergency medical care and evacuation is strongly recommended due to the remote nature of the destination. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Djibouti City, but access and evacuation can be challenging in a medical emergency. Divers should be well-prepared for potential strong currents and adhere strictly to dive leader instructions, especially concerning entry, exit, and group cohesion. Always have a surface marker buoy (SMB) and know how to deploy it. Maintain reasonable recreational depth limits and consider using Nitrox to extend bottom time and minimize nitrogen loading, given the limited infrastructure for technical diving support.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

FAQ

Sec de la Passe FAQ

Liveaboards diving Sec de la Passe

These liveaboards may visit Sec de la Passe on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Elegante

Djibouti

14 guests25 m

Felicidad II

Djibouti

18 guests30 m