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Traffic Jam  Map  Partial species list

On this spectacular wall site, divers are likely to overlook the amazing coral growth because of all the fish. The wall has ten deep vertical chutes cut into its surface from the three-meter reef crest to its bottom. These narrow cuts are only large enough for one diver at a time to enter. Below you, look for the shy and singular Vermicular grouper (Plectopomus oligocanthus) with its dark brown body splashed with blue scrawling, hovering in deep water. If you linger at a particular spot or swim close to the wall, carefully note your surroundings since Giant morays (Gymnothorax javanicus) are often sighted here. The wall also attracts large marine life, such as sharks, rays, Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), and tuna. This is the favorite dive site of Gorontalo’s diving governor.

This site is about 400 meters long.

Depth: 3 - 40 meters

Highlights: millions of fish, wall cut by numerous chutes, dense coral growth, giant sponges

Conditions: Visibility is typically 20 meters. The current usually presents no problem but can be noticeably stiffer at the gentle slope.

Special Note: Northern Sulawesi has the highest marine biodiversity on the planet and this Gorontalo dive site provides dramatic proof. Take your time to enjoy the site and leave scuba aerobics for another time. You came here to see the fish and enjoy the coral, right?

Virtual Dive

Because of the height of the adjacent mountain, direct sunlight is late hitting the wall. About mid-dive, suddenly a sun-filled gentle slope spills down the wall. This slope is about 50 meters wide and is flanked by large inlets. Because this slope protrudes significantly from the wall, the current here is much stronger. But the stronger current also draws significantly higher numbers of fish, including five species of fusiliers, unicornfish, Schooling pyramid butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys polylepis), chromis, damsels, and anthias. This is a good place to look for Orang-back wrasse (Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis), a species endemic to Tomini Bay and only named in 1999. The shallow reef crest has excellent coral growth to enjoy during your safety stop. During your surface interval, find out if the crew has seen dolphin or the shell of a Chambered nautilus (Nautilus pompilius).

Dive in Gorontalo