Snorkelling and Diving in Rangiroa

THE CURRENT RUSHES BY. TIME. STANDS. STILL.

Many of the world’s great must-see sights stand above the land: the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, the skyscrapers of Manhattan. But as any experienced diver knows, some of the world’s greatest wonders exist below the waves. The lagoon at Rangiroa is one of these.

In the Pantheon of great diving sites, Rangiroa is one of the greatest gods. Divers from throughout the world flock here to explore its majesty. The largest atoll in the South Pacific, its lagoon measures a staggering 65 km long, 32 km wide and up to 45 metres deep. Two major passes exist and at the exit of these, divers can explore a plunging ocean depth.

Where the Tipitura Pass meets the ocean, divers will find the Shark Cave – one of several great attractions. Divers descend to a depth of 35 metres and enter the cave (the sharks frequent the area outside this cave). From this vantage you can gaze upon a swirling assortment of sharks – from blacktips to hammerheads. Upon exiting the cave, divers enter the channel. A strong current propels you along this spectacular pass towards the lagoon. Along the ways encounter snappers, surgeonfish and , sharks surging through the pass. And hiding within the folds of its walls – lion fish, stone fish, eels and small caves.

When the current flows in the opposite direction, L'Eolienne is a popular dive, especially known for its dolphins. The Six Passengers Diving Centre guides visitors in exploring these sites as well as other popular dives including the Aquarium and Avatoru Pass.