潜点: The Passage

关于 The Passage

The Passage is a truly unique dive site in Raja Ampat, formed by a natural saltwater river flowing between the islands of Gam and Waigeo. This distinctive channel is renowned for its breathtaking above-water scenery, with towering limestone cliffs extending below the surface to create a dramatic underwater landscape. Diving here offers an unusual experience, as you drift through what feels like an extension of a terrestrial river, encountering both freshwater and saltwater marine life. The topography below the surface features shallow reefs, intricate caves, and intriguing caverns carved into the cliff sides. The floor of The Passage is characterized by sandy patches, lush soft coral growth, and impressive sea fans. While the site can be dived in calm conditions, the true adventure unfolds with the current, transforming the dive into a dynamic drift through this extraordinary environment. This constant flow of water brings nutrients, supporting a diverse ecosystem. Marine life here is a fascinating mix, adapted to the unique conditions. You'll find a wide array of macro critters, including numerous nudibranchs and various shrimp species, particularly in the sandy areas and within the protective mangrove roots. The soft corals and sea fans are vibrant, and with a keen eye, divers can spot rarer finds like ornate ghost pipefish and pygmy seahorses. While larger pelagics are less common here, the site excels in its unique topography and rich, smaller-scale biodiversity. Access to The Passage is typically via liveaboard, often as part of a broader Raja Ampat itinerary. The site is best experienced during the off-season or specific tidal conditions when currents can be either gentle enough for exploration or strong enough for an exhilarating drift. Diving here requires good buoyancy control, especially when navigating close to the walls and exploring the numerous crevices and overhangs.