Fakarava is a stunning atoll in French Polynesia’s Tuamotu Archipelago. It is well-known for its extraordinary marine life, spotless coral reefs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Divers from all over the world travel to the atoll since it is one of the most well-liked diving locations in the world. It’s crucial to pick the best dive center for your journey when diving in Fakarava. Divers can enjoy a variety of diving experiences at the atoll’s many diving facilities. In this post, we’ll examine the best five diving schools in Fakarava in more detail.
Tetamanu Diving Center
On the southernmost point of Fakarava, there is a family-run business called Tetamanu Diving Center. Since it is the only diving facility in the region, divers staying in the southern section of the atoll should definitely consider using it. With a variety of dives available, the facility provides each diver with a unique experience.
The drift dive is one of Tetamanu Diving Center’s most well-liked dives. Fakarava has powerful currents that are perfect for drift diving. Divers can float around the coral walls and get a close-up look at the magnificent marine life. Divers can see reef sharks and even tiger sharks during the center’s shark dives.
Tetamanu Diving Center offers diving and a camera room where divers can store and edit their underwater pictures and films. The center’s qualified diving instructors can assist divers in spotting anything from reef sharks to manta rays because they are aware about the local marine life.
Top Dive Fakarava
Top Dive Fakarava is a well-established diving center that offers a range of dives for all levels of experience. The center has two dive centers in Fakarava, one in the north and one in the south. This makes it easy for divers to access the best dive sites on the atoll.
The hammerhead shark dive is one of Top Dive Fakarava’s most distinctive dives. Divers can see the uncommon and elusive hammerhead shark on this dive, which takes place in the deep waters of the atoll. Divers can see these elegant creatures up close on manta ray dives that the center also offers.
The PADI-certified dive instructors at Top Dive Fakarava are quite knowledgeable about the local marine species. They provide a variety of classes, including certificates in open water and advanced open water. Divers of all expertise levels looking for a thorough diving experience should definitely consider the facility.
Havaiki Pearl Diving Center
The Havaiki Pearl Diving Center is a part of the Havaiki Pearl Resort and is situated on the western side of Fakarava. Divers can choose from a range of dives at the facility, including shark dives, night dives, and drift dives. Also, there is a designated macro dive spot there where divers can see tiny marine creatures including nudibranchs and sea slugs.
Whale viewing dives are one of Havaiki Pearl Diving Center’s most distinctive offerings. Humpback whales pass through the waters of Fakarava from July to October. During a dive specifically designed for whale watching, divers can get a close-up view of these spectacular animals.
Divers can find everything from humpback whales to eagle rays with the assistance of the center’s skilled dive instructors, who are knowledgeable about the area’s marine species. Divers can also keep and edit their underwater images and films in the camera room there.
Dive Spirit Fakarava
Small, family-run Dive Spirit Fakarava provides each diver with a unique diving experience. Divers can choose from a variety of dives at the facility, such as drift dives, shark dives, and night dives. There is a designated macro diving spot there as well, where divers can see tiny marine life.
The commitment of Dive Spirit Fakarava to environmental sustainability is one of its distinctive qualities. The facility is dedicated to safe diving techniques and actively supports marine conservation initiatives. Divers can participate in a dive when coral is planted in order to help the local coral reefs recover.
The center’s skilled dive instructors can assist divers in spotting anything from hammerhead sharks to octopuses because they are aware about the local marine life. They provide a variety of classes, including certificates in open water and advanced open water. Divers who desire a tailored experience and a dedication to environmental sustainability can consider Dive Spirit Fakarava.
Kaina Plongée
On the eastern side of Fakarava is a tiny diving establishment called Kaina Plongée. Divers can choose from a variety of dives at the facility, such as drift dives, shark dives, and night dives. There is a designated macro diving spot there as well, where divers can see tiny marine life.
The dedication of Kaina Plongée to offering divers a cultural experience is one of its distinctive characteristics. After each dive, the center provides a typical Polynesian supper so that divers can get a taste of the regional fare and culture. Divers can also learn about the tradition and history of pearl farming in French Polynesia by visiting a nearby pearl farm.
The center’s qualified diving instructors can assist divers in spotting anything from reef sharks to eagle rays because they are aware of the local marine life. They provide a variety of classes, including certificates in open water and advanced open water. Divers who want to combine a cultural experience with their diving expedition should consider Kaina Plongée.
Fakarava is a stunning atoll with a variety of marine life and pristine coral reefs, so to sum it up. A safe and enjoyable diving experience depends on selecting the correct diving center. Divers can enjoy a variety of activities at each of the five diving establishments described in this article, including drift dives and cultural excursions. You’re certain to enjoy a fantastic diving excursion in Fakarava no matter which dive center you select.
Our Top FAQ's
The best time of year to dive in Fakarava is from April to November when the weather is dry and the water visibility is at its best. However, diving is possible year-round in Fakarava.
Divers in Fakarava can expect to see a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays, and a variety of fish species. Fakarava is also known for its large population of grey reef sharks and occasional sightings of hammerhead sharks.
A drift dive is a type of diving where the divers allow themselves to be carried by the current. Divers do not swim against the current but instead use it to move through the water, which can be an exhilarating experience.
Diving centers in Fakarava can contribute to environmental sustainability by practicing responsible diving practices, participating in marine conservation efforts, and educating divers about the importance of protecting the marine environment. Some centers also offer coral planting dives where divers can help to restore damaged coral reefs.