Dive-site story
Located in the heart of Raja Ampat's Dampier Strait, Sardine Reef is an offshore submerged seamount rather than an emergent island reef. Despite the name, you will not find sardines here; the site earned its title from the sheer density of schooling fish packed together as tightly as tinned fish. Strong oceanic currents strike the sloping ridge, fueling intense feeding aggregations where pelagic predators hunt relentlessly along the current-facing edge.
Massive swirling vortexes of yellowtail fusiliers and chevron barracuda compressing along the current point
Frequent hunting patrols by giant trevally, Spanish mackerel, and grey reef sharks
Carpet sharks camouflaged under coral ledges, including tasseled wobbegongs
Dense hard and soft coral cover spanning the reef top and descending down the slopes
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Calmest seas and optimal conditions occur during the central Raja Ampat dive season from autumn through spring.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tasseled WobbegongEucrossorhinus dasypogon | Common | ||||||||||||
| Grey Reef SharkCarcharhinus amblyrhynchos | Common | ||||||||||||
| Bigeye TrevallyCaranx sexfasciatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Chevron BarracudaSphyraena qenie | Common | ||||||||||||
| Spanish MackerelScomberomorus commerson | Common |
Marine forecast
Book with DIVEROUT
