Dive· Rangiroa· French Polynesia: Tuamotus, Marquesas, Gambier & Australs
La Petite Passe (Avatoru Pass dive)
14° 56.6′ S · 147° 42.8′ W · approximate
The narrower of the two channels around the islet in Avatoru Pass, a fast incoming drift billed as the most colourful dive in the area, with mantas feeding into the current and whitetip reef sharks resting in caves at the lagoon end.
Practical
Approx: placed on the western (right-hand when entering) side of Avatoru Pass, west of the Tahiti Heritage pass pin (14.94056S 147.71230W); Tahiti Heritage names the islet in the pass Motu Fara, with Motu Kaveao beside it. Experienced divers only; very strong, fast current, as always in a narrow channel (6 Passengers dive centre). Mantas are most often reported July-September. Underwater cable in the pass; never anchor here.
Best for
Mantas and colourful walls on the flood
Season
Incoming current; mantas mostly Jul-Sep
Nearby
- Avatoru Pass Dive (Rangiroa)0.1 NM away
- Rangiroa Pro Surf Contest (Avatoru)0.1 NM away
- Avatoru Sortie Droite (Avatoru outer wall)0.3 NM away
- Rangiroa ATMs and Bank (Avatoru / Tiputa)0.3 NM away
- Chez Daniel Magasin (Rangiroa)0.4 NM away
- Farerei Haga Va'a Festival (Rangiroa)0.4 NM away
- Rangiroa Fresh Water Card (Avatoru Mairie)0.4 NM away
- Rangiroa Post Office (Avatoru)0.4 NM away