Komodo is renowned for being one of the best diving sites in the whole world; definitely high up there on many divers’ bucket list. However, to those of you who are far more inclined to snorkel, is it just as good? Without a doubt Komodo snorkeling is one of the most favorite activities anyone visiting Flores for its marine wonders. So here are some of the best spots for snorkeling in Komodo National Park and the Flores seas.
Komodo snorkeling Siaba Besar
Snorkeling in Siaba Besar is known to be one of the most favored snorkeling spots thanks to its calm seas. The currents rarely get strong as there are reefs that protect the area from the strong currents. Siaba Besar in Flores is teeming with marine wildlife that’s a pure joy to experience. It’s a shallow reef and the area is expansive. Guides have said that Komodo snorkeling in Siaba Besar is great for starters and for those who don’t have much experience snorkeling. Exploring the areas in leisure is entirely possible and you definitely don’t lack expanses of gorgeous collars and an abundance of fishes swarming around.
Tatawa Kecil Snorkeling
Unlike Siaba Besar with its protected diving site and relatively calm currents, Tatawa Kecil has strong currents. The best time to both snorkel and dive at Tatawa Kecil is during a slack tide; usually you’ll need to wake up very early in order to reach this. Even going with a liveaboard requires you to wake up at around 5 am in order to reach this place just in time.
The garden of corals at Tatawa Kecil is a joy to discover during a Komodo snorkeling and it’s definitely one of the things that makes getting up early so worth it. The marine wildlife is rich and absolutely fascinating; fish life is abundant.
Batu Bolong Komodo
Any diver would know Batu Bolong as it’s one of the signature dive sites in Flores and the Komodo National Park. However, is it any good for snorkelers?
Batu Bolong is a fascinating destination; a giant reef that only looks like a small rock from the surface, but in truth it extends deep into the ocean. This reef is massive, and is home to thousands of corals and fishes. it’s known for being unpredictable; experienced divers advises to watch out for sudden strong currents. Only seasoned divers usually visit Batu Bolong Komodo so seeing snorkelers down here is actually rather rare. But if you’re keen on experiencing a snorkel in this spot, it’s definitely worth a try. Marine life is incredible; it’s one of the most popular dive sites in Flores for a reason.
Snorkeling Kanawa Island
Just like Siaba Besar, the currents in Kanawa island is relatively mild. This spot is perfect for those who are just starting to dive or snorkeling. It makes for a perfectly relaxing snorkeling experience. The visibility is also quite good; experiencing marine wildlife is a breeze here. Kanawa island isn’t particularly abundant in corals or fish life compared to other Komodo snorkeling sites. However when compared to other areas in the world or if you haven’t visited other spots in Komodo Flores, you’re still going to be blown away by this gorgeous Komodo liveaboard snorkeling site.
Also read: Luxury Liveaboard Komodo Featured Spot: Gili Lawa Darat
If you’d like to see certain marine species, it’s best if you research certain spots and what they’re known for. For example Manta Point Komodo snorkeling is known for its well, mantas! Prepare well so that you’ll have a blast snorkeling in Flores.