Scuba Diving in Alor, Indonesia: Best Dive Sites + Eco-Friendly Resorts
Looking for the best dive sites in Alor? Discover everything you need to know about diving in Alor, including the ideal time to visit, eco-friendly dive resorts and the benefits of an Alor liveaboard.
Alor is a little-known Indonesian diving destination situated east of Flores that is quickly being added to the bucket list of scuba enthusiasts. We visited last year as part of an 8-day liveaboard trip and the diving was incredible!
Unlike the heavily explored reefs of Raja Ampat and the Komodo Islands, this remote area has managed to maintain a sense of untouched splendour. For now, the underwater crowds while diving in Alor are nonexistent!
Not only are Alor’s coral reefs flourishing, but the cold upwellings attract an endless array of pelagic species. Hammerheads were on our bingo card and we were lucky enough to see them!
Adding to all of this, the topside scenery is equally captivating. Enchanting villages seemingly cling to the hillsides, some with grand churches at their heart and others with towering mosques.
The local fishermen here utilise only sustainable fishing methods, avoiding the use of destructive nets and lines that can damage the delicate coral reefs.
As a result, the dive sites around Alor are incredibly healthy, attracting everything from tiny critters to pygmy blue whales. In our opinion, it’s one of the most untouched dive destinations in Indonesia.
The volcanic origins of the Alor islands also contribute to the region’s allure. The dramatic underwater topography features everything from black sand slopes (perfect for muck diving) to towering pinnacles and walls.
However, the area’s strong ocean currents demand a high level of experience from divers. The conditions can be quite challenging at some of the best dive sites in Alor.
But for advanced divers, Alor promises an unforgettable underwater experience in a truly remote corner of the globe.
In this article, we’ll share with you everything you need to know about diving in Alor, from the best dive sites to eco-friendly dive resorts and the benefits of an Alor liveaboard.
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Best dive sites in Alor
Kalabahi Bay
Alor’s best muck dive site is a treasure trove for macro enthusiasts, offering a combination of silt, mud and rubble. The area is home to a multitude of rare and remarkable species, such as the paddleflap scorpionfish, nudibranchs and flatworms.
The black volcanic sand that dominates much of Kalabahi Bay provides a striking and dramatic backdrop. Understandably, this is one of the best places for underwater photography in Alor.
Biatabang
Also known as “The Hanging Gardens of Babylon,” this is a popular choice for check dives. Everything from bumphead parrotfish to Napoleon wrasse is often spotted while wall diving in Alor.
Biatabang’s overhangs are blanketed in soft corals and sponges, which provide a habitat for leaf scorpionfish and nudibranchs. Above the water, you can see local fishermen preparing their traditional bamboo fish traps, known as “bubu”.
Cathedral
This magnificent Alor dive site is particularly prone to cold upwellings, where nutrient-rich, chilly waters from the depths rise to the surface. You’ll likely pass through multiple thermoclines (abrupt changes in water temperature) as you descend from the top to the bottom of the water column.
A magnificent array of hard and soft corals carpets the seafloor – this is definitely one of the top dive sites in Alor for healthy corals! Meanwhile, large predators such as bamboo sharks and marble rays patrol the waters.
Kal’s Dream
With its near-vertical walls, this pinnacle is a favourite for high-speed drift dives. In fact, it’s one of the best sites for wall diving in Alor, with a huge diversity of schooling reef fish. Additionally, sharks, rays and even mola-mola can sometimes be seen passing by in the deep blue.
Current Alley
If you want to go diving with hammerheads in Alor, this is the place to be, although you’ll have to compete with the sometimes powerful currents. Reef sharks and schools of tuna can also be seen around the underwater ridge’s drop-off, together with a range of other pelagic species.
Clown Valley
Named after its abundance of anemones, this spectacular area of coral gardens is popular with underwater photographers. It’s also one of the best dive sites in Alor for beginners due to its shallow waters and moderate currents.
Expect to see not only clownfish but also angelfish, butterflyfish and groupers, as well as dogtooth tuna and the occasional sea turtle.
Alcatraz
Most notable for its garden of pink-hued soft corals, this beloved Alor dive site attracts underwater photographers. Along the edge of the reef is a sheer drop-off where big pelagic species can be spotted, alongside large schools of fish. The huge Gorgonian sea fans only add to the experience.
Wolang Cavern
With two caverns to explore, this is definitely one of the best sites in Alor for advanced divers. It offers unexpected surprises, such as massive bamboo sharks trying to get some rest. While admiring the magnificent wall covered in soft corals, keep an eye out for colourful nudibranchs and crabs.
Liveaboard vs resort-based diving in Alor
Alor offers an abundance of world-class dive sites that can be explored from land-based resorts or liveaboard cruises. Each option has its own pros and cons, making the decision a highly personal one.
For those looking to make the most of their diving experience, an Alor liveaboard may be the best choice. These specialised dive boats run multi-day itineraries diving in and around the Pantar Strait.
Generally speaking, an Alor liveaboard will take you to explore over 20 different dive sites and provide the opportunity for up to four dives per day.
Alor liveaboards usually travel to dive sites during mealtimes or early in the morning. So you won’t spend lots of time on small pangas getting there and back.
On the flip side, Alor liveaboards don’t have the facilities of a dive resort. That might be a swimming pool, a spa or just space to escape from other guests. If you’re wondering where to stay for diving in Alor and don’t want to be squished in a cabin, then a dive resort might be for you.
Resort bungalows and villas are usually much roomier than liveaboard cabins. Plus, there’s the option to take a walk and stretch your legs whenever you desire.
A resort-based dive vacation in Alor may be the best option for divers who aren’t comfortable in strong currents. If you’re a beginner diver visiting Alor, take note! Generally speaking, you’ll have an easier time arranging to dive at calm sites than on a liveaboard.
With liveaboard diving in Alor, you really have to go with what the majority of the group wants. This is often the exhilaration of current-swept dives, particularly if you have experienced scuba divers onboard.
Travelling further afield? Discover 10 of the best eco-dive resorts in Indonesia to help you plan a sustainable stay.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Alor
Alor Tanapi
Best Alor dive resort for couples
With just six bungalows, Alor Tanapi is an intimate Alor dive resort. It caters exclusively to couples, dive buddies and small groups seeking an off-the-beaten-path sustainable scuba vacation.
Alor Tanapi offers easy access to many of Alor’s world-class dive sites, with a custom-built fibreglass speedboat at your disposal.
Locally grown, organic produce is sourced for the meals served at the resort. Additionally, its team is taking important steps towards reducing non-biodegradable waste.
SAVU South Alor
Best luxury eco-friendly Alor dive resort
SAVU is a barefoot luxury Alor resort that seamlessly blends the ruggedly wild landscapes with refined comforts.
Harnessing the power of the sun, this eco-friendly Alor dive resort is entirely solar-powered and self-sufficient. It draws fresh water from its own wells and grows an abundance of organic produce on its permaculture farm.
From the charming beach cottages to the stunning cliff-side villas, every aspect of SAVU has been thoughtfully designed with an off-the-grid ethos.
Alami Alor
Best Alor dive resort for underwater photographers
Offering a maximum capacity of just 12 divers or 14 snorkellers, Alami Alor prides itself on providing a highly personalised experience. The attentive staff at this sustainable Alor dive resort are dedicated to getting to know each guest on a personal level.
The resort caters especially well to underwater photographers. There’s an on-site camera room and dedicated photography staff who can help guests hone their skills.
Each of its seven spacious bungalows features a hardwood terrace and cosy seating area facing the ocean.
Alor Divers
Best Alor dive resort for non-divers
Set along a 400-metre sandy beach, this eco-friendly Alor dive resort is designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding environment.
Each bungalow has been carefully crafted to complement the natural setting. In fact, they draw inspiration from traditional regional architecture with open-air layouts, thatched roofing and an emphasis on natural ventilation.
At the core of Alor Divers’ ethos is a commitment to providing guests with a high-quality, sustainable island experience. That’s true whether they arrive as divers, snorkellers or nature enthusiasts.
Moko Alor Dive Resort
Best Alor dive resort with a pool
Overlooking a powdery white and pink sand beach, this eco-friendly Alor dive resort boasts a house reef teeming with life.
It takes great pride in supporting the local seaweed farming industry. In fact, the seaweed cultivation happens right at the resort’s shoreline.
Complementing the resort’s stunning natural surroundings are its impressive amenities. These include an infinity pool and an open-air restaurant that offers views of Mount Sirung Volcano.
Best time to dive in Alor
The best time to dive in Alor is from April through October. During these months, you can expect clear, sunny skies, minimal rainfall and excellent visibility.
Even the shoulder months of March and November can offer excellent diving in Alor. However, these transitional periods may see a slightly higher frequency of rainy days, often concentrated in the afternoons.
It’s worth noting that the rainy season from December to February can actually be more favourable for muck diving in Alor.
The water temperatures in Alor are comfortable throughout the year, ranging from around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). That being said, the cold upwellings can be chilly.
A 5mm wetsuit or a 3mm and extra skin may be required for the slightly cooler dive sites in the southern areas of Alor.
FAQs about diving in Alor
When is the diving season in Alor?
The best time for diving in Alor is between April and October, when you can enjoy clear skies, little rain and fantastic visibility. The shoulder months of March and November also provide great diving experiences, although you might encounter a few more rainy afternoons.
What is the water temperature in Alor for diving?
Generally speaking, the water temperatures in Alor are warm throughout the year, between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
However, the cold upwellings can be much chillier (we experienced as low as 16 degrees Celsius during our dives). So you might want to consider wearing a 5mm wetsuit or a 3mm wetsuit with an additional layer when you’re diving at the archipelago’s southern sites.
How much experience do you need to dive in Alor?
The Pantar Strait is renowned for its strong currents, which means that diving in Alor is best for experienced divers. Most resorts and liveaboards recommend that you have at least 100 dives under your belt and feel comfortable in strong currents.
If you haven’t done that many dives yet, check directly with the resort or liveaboard before booking.
Is there diving in Alor for beginners?
Even if you’re not an experienced diver, you can still dive in the area. However, you will be limited to certain sites.
If you’re not comfortable diving in currents, it’s probably best to stay at a land-based dive resort (rather than on a liveaboard). Generally speaking, you will have a better chance of breaking away from the group if they are doing strong drift dives.
To really experience what makes Alor such an exciting scuba destination, we’d recommend getting your dive tally up elsewhere before booking a trip here.
Should I stay at a dive resort or on a liveboard in Alor?
For those eager to maximise their diving adventures in Alor, opting for a liveaboard could be the ideal solution. These dedicated dive vessels offer multi-day trips, allowing guests to explore a greater array of sites and enjoy up to four dives each day.
Liveaboards often navigate to dive locations during meal times, minimising the time spent on smaller boats traveling to and from dive spots.
However, liveaboards lack the amenities found at dive resorts, such as swimming pools, spas or simply the space to unwind away from fellow guests. Resort accommodations like bungalows and villas tend to be more spacious than boat cabins. Alor dive resorts also give you the freedom to take leisurely walks and stretch your legs whenever you wish.
For divers who may not feel at ease in strong currents, a resort-based dive vacation in Alor could be a better choice. It’s generally easier to arrange dives at calmer sites when staying at a resort compared to a liveaboard, where the group’s preferences often dictate the dive locations.
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