Best shallow sites for corals?

[Corals_6336]

Hello, I have been snorkeling in the Red Sea, Mauritius, Seychelles.

I would like to spend 2 weeks snorkeling everyday, possibly where corals are bleached to a minimum and where there are many different species. Basically weighting this on corals variety, pristiness and colorfulness first, with all the other aspects of biodiversity such as quantity and variety of fishes, sponges etc. etc. being a more than welcome addition.

Have been eyeing Indonesia, specifically Raja Ampat, but not sure where I should aim exactly or if there are other places which might be just as beautiful or even more rewarding.

All suggestions are welcome, thank you.

 

[Trilobite]

Hello,

I just went on a two week SnorkelVenture Alor/Komodo Indonesia tour in October 2024. These are two of the top snorkeling sites in the world, and the corals, especially in Alor, where the water tends to be a bit cooler, were the most vibrant and colorful that I've seen. Not a ton of coral shots, but here are my photos from that trip to give you an idea: Alor & Komodo Oct. 2024

Also did a snorkeling tour with them to Raja Ampat (Dampier Strait) in October 2023, and that was also great. But there is now a thread on this forum about some recent bleaching concerns in that area. But I'm sure there is still tons to see there if you know where to go. Here are my photos from that trip: Raja Ampat Indonesia Oct 2023

Feel free to ask if you have any other questions.

 

[Corals_6336]

Thanks for your reply.
It is really difficult to find a spot as all the area seems interesting, but as you said things change quickly and what could have been pristine corals and lots of wildlife could now be bleached overcrowded seas.
The only sure thing is that I am not going for a 2 years waiting list into an expensive eco-resort.
Your photos are very nice, I really like them and the selection you made.

 

[dcvf2]

Hi
@ "Trilobite" very nice photos
I’am always very impressed by saltwater crocodiles…
In KRI in 2017 I missed going to hunt one with the Papuans.

A morning in front of the bungalows at Serpele ( Raja Ampat)

@ « Coral_6336
You will find many reports (with videos and photos from Indonesia (Raja Ampat)) on my French forum (Google translate can help you)
Below is the general sub-forum with many destinations
"Gorgone" a member of the forum was there 2 weeks ago, she will soon post videos etc... I hope
Asie du sud-est ( Indonésie & Nouvelle Guinée, Philippines, Thaïlande, Malaisie, …)