Komodo, Indonesia

Dive Site: Tanjung Rusa

≤ 40 mAdvanced Reef
© EsriSource: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar, GIS Community · Labels © Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS

Which liveaboards dive Tanjung Rusa?

About Tanjung Rusa

Tanjung Rusa, located within the renowned Komodo National Park, is a dive site primarily recommended for exploration during the slack tide. Situated in an area characterized by the powerful and often unpredictable currents of the Flores and Savu Seas, the timing of a dive here is crucial due to the unique hydrological dynamics between these two large bodies of water. While specific topographical details like depth bands, structure, or particular features of Tanjung Rusa are not detailed in the available information, the general characteristic of Komodo's dive sites often includes rich coral formations and diverse marine habitats. However, its specific allure is derived from the challenges and opportunities presented by its currents. The marine life at Tanjung Rusa, like much of Komodo, benefits from these nutrient-rich currents, contributing to the high biodiversity of the region. Although no specific species are mentioned for this exact site, Komodo National Park as a whole is globally recognized for its abundant marine ecosystems. Encounter probabilities for various species are generally high across the park, particularly for pelagic life attracted by the strong water flow. Divers planning to visit Tanjung Rusa must be prepared for conditions that necessitate precise timing and a high degree of adaptability. Dives are typically conducted during the brief windows of slack tide, which can be non-existent or short-lived. This demands flexibility in dive scheduling and reliance on experienced local guides who can interpret the complex current patterns. The site is best suited for advanced divers due to the potential for strong currents outside of slack tide, requiring excellent buoyancy control and comfort in challenging conditions.

Highlights

Komodo National Park marine biodiversityPrecise slack tide divingChallenging current experienceNutrient-rich watersDiverse marine habitats

Season calendar

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

Mar – May & Sep – Nov (Mar–May, Sep–Nov)

Best overall conditions with comfortable temperatures. Southern mantas Apr–Jun, northern mantas Sep–Nov. Good visibility and manageable currents.

Dec – Feb (Dec–Feb)

Excellent visibility up to 30m. Warmer water temperatures. Good manta activity in transition. Busiest tourist period.

Jun – Aug (Jun–Aug)

Cooler water from upwellings (24–26°C) brings nutrient-rich plankton. Reduced visibility but exciting pelagic action. Fewer boats and lower prices.

Dive site facts: Tanjung Rusa

Depth
≤ 40 m
Current
Strong
Entry
Liveaboard only
Level
Advanced
Dive type
Reef, Drift
Region / port
Komodo, Indonesia
Coordinates
8.5913° S, 119.5029° E

Conditions & Currents

Tanjung Rusa is a dive site that necessitates diving exclusively during the slack tide due to the significant and potentially hazardous currents characteristic of Komodo National Park. These currents are primarily driven by the tidal exchange between the Flores Sea and the Savu Sea, with falling tides generally being stronger. The interaction of gravity and local terrain can unpredictably affect tidal changes, sometimes delaying or advancing the slack water period, or even eliminating it entirely. Divers must be prepared for highly variable conditions, including potential downcurrents or upcurrents that can pose risks even to experienced individuals. Entry and exit strategies will depend entirely on the guide's assessment of real-time conditions, often requiring a live boat pickup or specific negative entry techniques. Given the requirement for diving during slack tide, precise planning and flexibility are essential, making this site more appropriate for advanced divers comfortable with strong current environments.

Why dive Tanjung Rusa from a liveaboard?

Tanjung Rusa is one of Komodo, Indonesia's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and typically offers several guided dives per day (the exact number depends on the vessel and itinerary), 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.

Liveaboards in Indonesia →

Liveaboards diving Tanjung Rusa

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

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12 liveaboards run the Tanjung Rusa route.

Three to four guided dives a day on Tanjung Rusa and the other signature sites in Komodo, Indonesia, sleeping right above the reef.