

Best for intermediate divers, 5-45m, boat entry, mild current.
St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti Nui features a reef edge that begins at 5 metres and descends to 45 metres. This wall dive requires careful depth management as it drops into deep water. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres, with mild currents that can shift. Divers must be aware of surge and swell at the surface, which can make boat entry and exit demanding. Due to the presence of stonefish on rocky ledges and sharp coral, precise buoyancy and careful hand placement are essential. This site is suited for intermediate divers, with an average dive time of 40 minutes and year-round water temperatures between 26 and 29 degrees Celsius.
-17.61590, -149.62007
Check current conditions with your operator before entering, as surge and swell at the surface can make the boat entry and exit more demanding than the dive itself. Watch where you place your hands on the reef, particularly near rocky ledges where stonefish are easily missed.
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Recorded at this site
Depth
5-45m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
The site is known for the presence of sharks and stonefish, which may be found resting on rocky ledges.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the depth, potential for surge, and the need for precise buoyancy control.
The reef starts at 5 metres and drops to 45 metres, with an average depth of 25 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site; boat ladders should be used for entry and exit to avoid contact with the reef.
Snorkelling is not recommended due to the site's depth and hazard profile.
Diving at St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti should be aware of stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at St Etienne Drop-Off in Tahiti typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.