Dive Site: 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.

Dive site facts: Tanjung Rusa

Depth

0–40 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.

Liveaboards diving Tanjung Rusa

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

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

$271/day

Ecopro Duyung Baru

Indonesia

6 guests27 m

$361/day

Wellenreng

Indonesia

9 guests25 m

$423/day

Komodo Aggressor

Komodo, Indonesia

16 guests29 m

$312/day

Blue Manta

Indonesia

20 guests45 m

$482/day

Mari

Indonesia

14 guests32.2 m

$320/day

Situju7

Komodo, Indonesia

10 guests32.7 m

$362/day

Pindito

Indonesia

16 guests37.79 m

$533/day

Mermaid II

Komodo, Indonesia

18 guests

$388/day

Putri Naga

Komodo, Indonesia

6 guests25 m

Mikumba Dua

Indonesia

10 guests30 m

$335/day

Aliikai Voyage

Indonesia

15 guests40 m

$658/day