Komodo National Park Dive Sites

Batu Bolong Central Komodo | A protected pinnacle teeming with life.

8º 32’ 35.5" S, 119º 36’ 58.8" E

Overview

Batu Bolong — meaning “hollow rock” — is a small, steep island rising dramatically from the Komodo Strait between Tatawa and Komodo. Though tiny above the surface, this site offers a massive payoff below. Protected from destructive fishing by sheer walls and powerful currents, Batu Bolong has become a thriving sanctuary of marine life and one of Komodo National Park’s most iconic dive sites.

Because of the site’s exposed location, Batu Bolong is only diveable during slack tide — and must be approached with respect for both timing and technique. When conditions align, it offers one of the richest dives in Indonesia: walls of color, clouds of fish, and large pelagics patrolling the blue.

Massive table coral formation overlooking vibrant reef fish in Komodo National Park's Coral Triangle ecosystem

Fast Facts

Dive Type: Wall / Pinnacle
Experience Level: Intermediate – Advanced
Depth Range: 3–35m+
Best Time to Dive: Year-round, but only during slack tide
Key Features: Steep walls, protected lee side, high biodiversity
Marine Life Highlights: Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, dogtooth tuna, giant trevally, rainbow runners, anthias, soft corals.

Tips for Divers

Only dive Batu Bolong during slack tide — currents here can be extremely dangerous.
Stick to the protected (lee) side of the island and follow your guide closely.
Excellent site for Nitrox users to extend time at depth.
Use reef hooks sparingly and only on bare rock — the coral here is pristine and delicate.

From the surface to the depths, Batu Bolong is buzzing with life. The upper reef starts shallow with intact hard and soft coral, colorful invertebrates, and schools of anthias creating a confetti-like shimmer in the water. Dive deeper and the action intensifies: expect regular sightings of Napoleon wrasse, whitetip reef sharks, dogtooth tuna, and giant trevally cruising the current-exposed corners of the rock.

Rainbow runners streak past in schools, and green turtles sometimes drift through the current breaks. This untouched reef is also home to reef critters — nudibranchs, fire dartfish, and cleaner shrimp — making it a favorite for wide-angle and macro photographers alike.

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About Lotus Liveaboards

Lotus Liveaboards offers immersive, small-group dive expeditions in the heart of Komodo National Park, operating out of Labuan Bajo, Flores, Indonesia. As the liveaboard division of Azul Komodo — the first PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center (IDC) in Komodo and a certified Green Fins member — we specialize in high-quality, eco-conscious diving experiences aboard our handcrafted wooden vessels.

From our flagship Blue Lotus Phinisi to the beloved day boat Biru Asmara, our fleet blends traditional Indonesian craftsmanship with modern dive functionality and comfort. Every journey is guided by experienced crew and PADI professionals who are passionate about marine life, conservation, and creating unforgettable underwater adventures.

Whether you’re here to complete your next certification, encounter Komodo’s famous manta rays, or simply relax between dives with fresh, chef-prepared meals, Lotus Liveaboards delivers personalized service and five-star experiences — both above and below the surface.