Tuamotu Archipelago

Rangiroa is the largest atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, enclosing a lagoon approximately 80 kilometers long and 32 kilometers wide. Diving concentrates around Tiputa and Avatoru passes, where tidal exchange between the lagoon and Pacific Ocean generates powerful currents and nutrient-rich water. Incoming-current dives can carry divers through coral channels alongside grey reef sharks, barracuda, jacks, eagle rays, sea turtles, and other pelagic species. Tiputa Pass is especially notable for its community of common bottlenose dolphins, which regularly uses the channel and surrounding waters. Because current strength and direction change with the tides, many pass dives require experience with drift-diving conditions.

Fun Fact: Tiputa Pass supports a repeatedly documented community of common bottlenose dolphins that visits the pass on an almost daily basis.