Napoleon Reef dive site

Pemuteran

Napoleon Reef Diving

None to moderate, varying among the reef's several points. The guide selects the route and profile for the group, tide and surface conditions.

Depth range
5–35 m
Access
Boat
Environment
Coral plateau, Reef slope, Small wall, Gorgonian garden, and Night dive
Experience level
Beginner to Advanced, point-dependent

About Napoleon Reef

Napoleon Reef is a coral plateau, reef slope, small wall dive in Pemuteran, with a working depth range of approximately 5–35 m. The site is known for hard and soft corals, gorgonian fans, pygmy seahorses, fusiliers, and sweetlips. Conditions remain variable, so the route, maximum depth and suitability are confirmed by the local guide on the day.

Availability notice

Conditions-dependent dive. Final operation and diver suitability are determined after the day-of-dive current, weather and experience assessment.

Site highlights

  • Coral plateau, Reef slope, Small wall, Gorgonian garden, and Night dive profile
  • Usable depth range from approximately 5 to 35 m
  • Potential encounters include hard and soft corals, gorgonian fans, pygmy seahorses, and fusiliers
  • None to moderate, varying among the reef’s several points

Before you dive

Recommended certification

Open Water for shallow plateaux; Advanced Open Water or equivalent for the 30 m wall, deep pinnacle or negative entry

Local guide recommended

Explore with a local guide familiar with the site and its entry and exit points.

Diving conditions & best time to visit

Water temperature
26–30 °C
Visibility
10–30 m

None to moderate, varying among the reef’s several points

Best months to dive

April–October often offers drier conditions, but the sheltered bay can be dived year-round when daily conditions permit.

Diveable year-round in suitable conditions. April–October often offers drier weather; inshore visibility can fall after rain, swell or sediment disturbance.

Conditions may change

Typical conditions can vary on the day of your dive. Confirm current conditions with the dive team before entering the water.

Marine life & activities

  • Hard and soft corals
  • Gorgonian fans
  • Pygmy seahorses
  • Fusiliers
  • Sweetlips
  • Trevally
  • Tuna
  • Rays
  • Cuttlefish
Snorkeling Freediving Night diving

Access & safety

Entry & Exit

Short boat ride from Pemuteran beach

Boat departure point
Pemuteran beach
Boat travel time
5–15 min

Safety notes

State the exact Napoleon sector in the briefing, because depth and current vary substantially. Do not enter the remains of the Zoe wreck.

Dive tips

  • Follow the local guide’s site- and tide-specific briefing.
  • Agree a maximum depth within certification limits; the published site range is 5–35 m.
  • Maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid contact with coral, artificial structures and the seabed.
  • State the exact Napoleon sector in the briefing, because depth and current vary substantially. Do not enter the remains of the Zoe wreck.
  • Treat wildlife encounters as possible, never guaranteed, and give animals space.

Underwater photography

Wide-angle equipment suits the reef structure and larger marine life. Set exposure before entering current, keep the rig streamlined and secured, and prioritise depth, gas, buoyancy and buddy contact over the photograph.

Site map & location

Napoleon Reef dive site planning map

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One of Southeast Asia's top dive destinations.

Bali is internationally recognised for its rich marine biodiversity and variety of dive environments. From coral reefs to wrecks and unique underwater landscapes, the island attracts divers from around the world looking for memorable and diverse diving experiences.

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