Dive Site: Yulliet Kecil

About Yulliet Kecil

Yulliet Kecil is a captivating islet dive site situated in the Misool region of Raja Ampat, Indonesia. It lies just to the east of the main Yulliet Pulau island and near Romeo. This site is celebrated for its diverse and vibrant marine ecosystem, characteristic of the world-renowned biodiversity found throughout Raja Ampat, which boasts 75% of the planet's coral species and over 1,500 fish species. The dive begins with abundant coral formations visible from depths as shallow as 5 meters, gradually extending down through 10, 20, and reaching a maximum recorded depth of 23 meters. The underwater topography offers a dynamic environment where divers can explore these various depth bands. The site supports a rich array of reef fish and invertebrates, providing a comprehensive diving experience. Raja Ampat, in general, offers a mix of wall, drift, and reef diving experiences, and sites like Yulliet Kecil contribute to this diverse offering, making it suitable for varying preferences. Divers can anticipate encounters with a multitude of fish species, including angelfish, triggerfish, clownfish, and rockfish. The area's healthy coral reefs and prolific marine life are a constant draw. While specific seasonality for Yulliet Kecil's marine life isn't detailed, the broader Misool region is known for its rich biodiversity year-round, with the dry season generally offering optimal conditions for observing pelagic species. Raja Ampat's tropical waters maintain temperatures between 28-30°C. A typical dive duration at Yulliet Kecil is around 57 minutes. The site is generally accessible to divers of various certification levels, given the typical maximum depth and the general conditions of the region, though specific current information for this particular site is not provided. Safety protocols are conservative in this remote area, with no deco diving allowed, and dives are typically limited to 30 meters.

Dive site facts: Yulliet Kecil

Depth

5–30 m

Typical dive

57 min, to 23m

Current

Variable, generally manageable

Visibility

15–30 m

Water temperature

26–30°C

Entry

Tender / boat

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Reef, coral slope

Region / port

Misool, Raja Ampat

Coordinates

0.8039° S, 130.4782° E

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Yulliet Kecil are generally manageable, although Raja Ampat is known for variable and sometimes strong currents in certain areas. Divers should be prepared for potential moderate flows, particularly if nutrient-rich waters are present, as these can enhance marine activity. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 30 meters, benefiting from the nutrient flow that keeps the water clear yet vibrant with life. Entry to the site is usually via tender boat, often requiring a negative entry depending on the prevailing conditions to quickly descend to the reef. The dive profile typically follows the natural slope of the reef, allowing divers to enjoy the various depth bands. Awareness of air consumption and good buoyancy control are always important, especially when navigating any unexpected current changes. This site is generally suitable for most divers due to its often gentler natu

Marine life & sighting chances

Angelfish

Year-round · common

Triggerfish

Year-round · common

Clownfish

Year-round · common

Rock fish

Year-round · common

File fish

Year-round · occasional

Stone fish

Year-round · occasional

Trumpet fish

Year-round · occasional

Moray eel

Year-round · occasional

Nudibranch

Year-round · occasional

Pygmy seahorse

Year-round · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Yulliet Kecil typically begins with a tender drop-off directly onto the reef, allowing for a swift descent into the vibrant underwater landscape. The site features coral formations that start as shallow as 5 meters, providing an immediate visual feast. Divers then gradually explore the sloping reef, which descends to depths of 10, 20, and 30 meters, following the contours of the islet. The route allows for a leisurely progression across different depth bands, showcasing a diverse array of fish and coral life at each stage. As the dive progresses, shallower sections are revisited, offering extended bottom time among brightly lit corals. The safety stop is usually conducted in the 5-meter zone, often a continuation of the shallow reef, making for a scenic and engaging decompression period.

Underwater photography

Yulliet Kecil's diverse topography, ranging from shallow coral gardens to deeper slopes, makes it excellent for both wide-angle and macro photography. For wide-angle shots, consider a fisheye or wide rectilinear lens to capture the extensive coral formations and schools of reef fish. The clear visibility and ample natural light, especially in shallower areas, create ideal conditions for capturing the vibrant colors without excessive artificial lighting. When moving into deeper sections, a strobe or video light will help bring out the true hues of the corals and marine life. Macro photographers will find opportunities for pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs among the corals; a 60mm or 100mm macro lens with a snoot can isolate these smaller subjects effectively. Pay attention to buoyancy, especially around delicate coral structures, to avoid accidental contact. Ethical photography means never harassing marine life for a shot.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Puri Pinnacle

  Located in South Misool, 5km north of Yulliet Pulau with a large plateau and several pinnacles.

• Yulliet Besar

  Just north of the main Yulliet Pulau island, known for plateaus, slopes, walls, and macro life.

• Nudi Rock

  A prominent rock formation in the Misool area, recognized for steep walls, sloping reefs, and abundant macro and pelagic life.

• Magic Mountain

  A world-class dive site mentioned in the context of Misool area liveaboard itineraries.

• Fiabacet

  Part of a group of small islands east of Fiabacet Island, renowned for diverse marine ecosystems.

Getting there & logistics

Yulliet Kecil is located in the remote southern Misool region of Raja Ampat, which is typically accessed via liveaboard trips departing from Sorong. Sorong, the largest city in West Papua, serves as the primary gateway, with domestic flights connecting from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Bali. Liveaboard itineraries typically range from 7 to 10 days, allowing ample time to explore Misool and other iconic Raja Ampat areas. All divers are required to purchase a Raja Ampat Marine Park Entry Permit, which costs approximately USD $100 and is valid for one calendar year. Given the remote location, booking well in advance, especially for the peak season (October to May), is highly recommended for liveaboards.

Safety & environment

Due to Raja Ampat's extremely remote location, especially in Misool, dive safety is paramount. The nearest recompression chamber is approximately 250 kilometers away in Sorong, emphasizing the need for conservative diving practices. Misool resorts and liveaboards, like Misool Resort, strictly enforce no-decompression diving, prohibit solo dives, and often limit depths to 30 meters. Comprehensive dive insurance, covering emergency evacuation and hyperbaric treatment, is essential. Divers should possess good buoyancy control and be mindful of their air consumption, particularly given the potential for variable currents. A reef hook can be a useful safety tool to maintain position without touching the reef, especially in stronger flows, ensuring both diver safety and reef protection.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Yulliet Kecil FAQ

Liveaboards diving Yulliet Kecil

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

Jaya

Indonesia

14 guests23 m

$280/day

Wellenreng

Indonesia

9 guests25 m

$426/day

Blue Manta

Indonesia

20 guests45 m

$488/day

Mari

Indonesia

14 guests32.2 m

$327/day

Situju7

Komodo, Indonesia

10 guests32.7 m

$362/day

Pindito

Indonesia

16 guests37.79 m

$533/day

Mermaid II

Komodo, Indonesia

18 guests

$354/day

Pearl of Papua

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

14 guests30 m

$303/day

Aliikai Voyage

Indonesia

15 guests40 m

$658/day

Gaia Love

Alor

20 guests

$554/day

Emperor Raja Laut

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

12 guests31 m

$413/day

Ambai

Indonesia

16 guests32 m

$452/day