Diving — World-Class Underwater
Bora Bora is among the top diving destinations in the South Pacific. The combination of a warm lagoon (for relaxed dives) and the current-rich outer reefs (for big fish encounters) offers the perfect experience for every level. The dive centers are excellently equipped, the guides experienced, and the safety standards high.
Dive Spots
- Teavanui Pass — The main pass of the lagoon and the most exciting dive spot: Here, lagoon and ocean waters meet, attracting big fish. Manta rays (wingspan up to 4 meters!) glide elegantly through the water, accompanied by schools of barracudas, jacks, and Napoleon wrasse. Drift diving — medium to high experience recommended.
- Manta Point — The most famous dive spot in Bora Bora: a cleaning station for manta rays on a coral ledge at 15–20 meters depth. Between May and November, mantas are almost guaranteed here. You hover at the reef edge and watch as the majestic creatures glide past you for cleaning.
- Anau — A simpler but beautiful dive spot on the east side of the lagoon: colorful corals, turtles, moray eels, and occasionally eagle rays. Ideal for beginners and advanced divers.
- Tapu — A drop-off on the north side of the lagoon: descending from 5 to 60 meters in a wall. Grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, and barracudas patrol along the wall. For experienced divers.
- White Valley — A sandy channel between coral formations where lemon sharks and stingrays gather. The "white" sandy area contrasts spectacularly with the turquoise water above.
Practical Information
- Dive Centers: Several certified dive centers on the main island (Bora Bora Diving Center, Eleuthera Diving, Top Dive). PADI and SSI certified.
- Prices: Single dive: 8,000–12,000 XPF (67–100€). Discovery Dive (beginner): from 12,000 XPF (100€). 5-dive package: approx. 35,000 XPF (293€).
- Visibility: 20–40 meters, best visibility in the dry season (May–October).
- Water Temperature: 26–29°C — Shorty or 3mm neoprene is sufficient.
