About this spot
Sabolon Kecil is a dive site centered on a small island in West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province. The site sits outside any marine protected area, making it accessible to independent divers and operators. Twelve documented species observations provide a baseline for the marine ecosystem, though specific depth ranges and visibility metrics require on-site assessment with local guides. The site operates year-round, meaning seasonal swells and weather patterns should guide trip planning rather than seasonal closures. Community-contributed videos offer visual reference for conditions and marine life encounters. Coral bleaching is currently under monitoring status—relevant context if you prioritize pristine reef health or wish to contribute observations. Access details, specific depth profiles, and water temperature data are best confirmed with local dive operators or community records before booking. Your choice of guide matters here; experienced local knowledge will optimize both safety and marine life encounters.
📖 Guide: Diving in Indonesia: 323 Sites, Mantas to Micro-critters
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type C/F · 230V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 12h · direct
- Jet-lag: 12h east · 8 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Sabolon Kecil?
The site is accessible year-round. Optimal conditions depend on local swell and monsoon patterns; consult regional weather data and local operators for your travel dates.
›What depth and difficulty level should I expect?
Specific depth ranges and difficulty ratings are not documented. Contact local dive operators in West Manggarai or experienced guides familiar with Sabolon Kecil to confirm your skill match before diving.
›What marine life will I see?
Twelve species have been documented at the site. Community videos provide visual reference. Reef fish, sharks, rays, and other species typical to Indonesia's Lesser Sunda region are likely, pending seasonal variation.
›Do I need permits or is it within a marine protected area?
Sabolon Kecil lies outside designated marine protected areas. Standard Indonesian dive tourism protocols apply; confirm local permitting and operator licensing with regional tourism authorities before departure.
