Breathtaking diving experience
Diving in Pemba offers some of the most spectacular underwater experiences anywhere in the world. Some of the dive sites around the island are remarkable by any standards. The deep Pemba Channel rises dramatically toward the island’s west coast in near vertical walls along many of the reefs. Diving in this region is characterized by exceptionally clear, blue water drop-offs and vibrantly healthy shallow reefs. Hard and soft coral gardens support a proliferation of reef and pelagic fish, making diving in Pemba a truly unforgettable marine adventure.
1. The Swiss Reef
System of sea mountains running parallel to the wall on a platform 25 m down. The mountains have different profiles; from just a few meters up to 100 m long. The thing to do here is drift dive over the system from one mountain to another, discovering the amazing reef life. Good chance of seeing big pelagic and turtles.
Recommended for: Experienced divers.
2. Shimba Hills
The last corner of the Shimba Wall breaks into two and forms a valley at 12 m depth with sand bottom with lots of barrel sponges and anthias, red sea sweatlips, fusiliers, red tooth triggerfish, etc.
Recommended for: Novice Divers
3. Shimba Wall
4. The Edge
Just west of the north-western peninsula. This is the last wall before Pemba island drops into the Pemba channel The wall starts at 30 meters and falls down steep! On the top of the wall huge barrels sponges and spirals corals grow up to two meters high. This is a great place for encounters with Napoleon fish, potato grouper, cubera snapper, big pelagic, turtle and even white tip shark. Recommended for: Deep divers certificate apply. Strong currents occur.
5. Pole Pole Mountain
Mountain of coral that lumes from 30 m to 16 m, the base of the mountain is scattered with smaller hills of coral, with lots of spotted sweet lips, nudibranches and turtles, this site is for experienced AOW divers and above, and can only be dived at slack tides.
6. Scorpions Secret
Situated a 2 min boat ride from the resort a gentle sloping wall starting at 5 m down to 18 m. Clear visibility and gentle currents make this site perfect for novice divers (DSD and OW) and snorkelers alike, as well as night dives. Well know for its camouflaged scorpion fish. Leaf fish, lion fish and giant frog fish.
7. House Reef
Right on the entrance to the manta resort coming from the ocean, an open patch of sand at 5m with superb visibility, flowing into big coral bomies filled with tropical fish and nudibranches, is perfect for snorkelers and divers of all levels, as well as night dives, Keep an eye out for large eye squid and octopus.
8. Njao Gap
A 30 min boat ride from the resort, Njao Gap which separates Njao island from the main island, you will find 5 different dive sites (Coral Garden, North Wall, South Wall, Slip stream, Jahazi Reef)ranging from 5 m to 40 m with sheer walls, mountains and coral gardens. This site focuses on good visibility, a massive variety of hard and soft coral, strong currents and a healthy vibrant range of marine life for example, Titan trigger fish, Napoleon wrasse, green turtles, giant trevally and dog tooth tuna, to name but a few, on the deeper dives we have been known to see white tip reef sharks, the sites are suitable for divers and snorkelers of all levels.
9. Fundu Gap
Situated South of Njao island about a one hour boat ride from the resort Fundu Gap separates Fundu island and Njao island. The 5 dive sites (Mandela Wall, Pinnacle, Coral Garden, Crack, South Wall) at Fundu range from 5 m to 40 m and allows for clear visibility, strong currents and large coral formations. These sites are better know for their larger fish species such as Eagle rays, Napoleon’s, GT’s and Barracuda. The deep drop-offs and cooler waters allow for amazing soft coral growth such as Gregorian sea fans and anemone cities. The Macro life on these softer coral gardens is phenomenal and is suited for all levels of diver and snorkeler, U/W photography is a must.
Diving in Pemba is the perfect way to begin your underwater journey. The island is home to one of the healthiest coral reef systems in the Indian Ocean, with water temperatures averaging a comfortable 26ºC.
In combination with excellent water conditions, Dive 360 Pemba, a 5-star PADI dive center, offers everything you need for an outstanding diving experience in Pemba. From a two-level training pool and professional dive instructors to a multilingual team ready to support you — everything is designed to make you feel as free as a fish in the sea.
Yes, divers are expected to follow standard diving regulations, including respecting marine protected areas, avoiding touching or damaging corals, and maintaining proper buoyancy control.
The water temperature around Pemba Island typically ranges from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F) year-round. This warm water makes for comfortable diving conditions, though a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit is recommended for extended dives.
While sightings of whale sharks and dolphins are not guaranteed, they are occasionally spotted in the waters around Pemba Island. For a higher chance of encountering these majestic creatures, consider visiting during their migration seasons and joining specialized excursions.
Yes, diving on Pemba Island is generally safe, especially when you dive with reputable dive centers that follow strict safety protocols. It’s important to listen to your dive guides, adhere to safety briefings, and ensure your equipment is in good condition.
Divers exploring Pemba Island’s coral reefs can expect to encounter a stunning array of underwater features and marine life. The island’s reefs are known for their dramatic drop-offs, underwater caves, and vibrant coral gardens. Marine life is abundant and diverse, with regular sightings of colorful reef fish, octopuses, and various species of rays. Additionally, lucky divers might spot larger marine creatures such as dolphins, turtles, and even reef sharks. One particularly fascinating feature is the Mesali Island Marine Reserve, which offers some of the best diving spots with well-preserved coral and a high density of marine biodiversity.
All revenues are donated to the local Marine Conservation Area Committee and rangers. Further donations are very welcome and appreciated. Our conservation boxes can be found at the diving centre and main lounge area.
For certification courses, it is recommended to complete the theory portion online through the PADI website before arriving. Get started with your e-learning and register with “Dive 360 Pemba”. Our dive centre number is 35453.
Discover scuba diving
Experience the magic of breathing underwater without committing to a full certification. Guided by a certified PADI Instructor, you’ll learn basic skills, safety procedures, and enjoy your first dive in open water.
Open water diving
The world’s most popular scuba course. This certification combines theory, pool or confined water practice, and open water dives — giving you the knowledge and skills to dive independently with a buddy, down to 18 meters.
Scuba review
If it’s been a while since your last dive, a Scuba Review helps you refresh essential skills and safety procedures so you can get back in the water with confidence.
Advanced diving
Take your diving further. The Advanced Open Water course builds confidence and expands your skills through specialty dives such as deep diving, navigation, wreck diving, or night diving.
Private tutoring
One-on-one instruction tailored to your needs. Perfect for divers who want extra attention, faster progress, or to focus on specific skills with a dedicated instructor.
Rescue diver
Challenging yet rewarding, the Rescue Diver course teaches you how to prevent and manage diving emergencies. You’ll learn how to assist others, improve your own safety awareness, and become a more confident diver.
Emergency first response
This primary care (CPR) and secondary care (First Aid) course equips you with essential life-saving skills. It’s valuable for everyday situations and a prerequisite for the PADI Rescue Diver certification.
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