

Best for advanced divers, Up to 24m, boat entry, strong current.
Yonara Channel is a drift dive site located in the Kabira Area of Ishigaki Island, Japan. This reef site features terrain extending from the shallows to a maximum depth of 24 metres. Due to the strong currents that define the area, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Access is exclusively by boat, and divers must coordinate entry and exit points with the boat captain to manage the flow effectively. Conditions vary significantly, and divers should be prepared for changing visibility. As a drift-focused environment, precise timing and buoyancy control are essential for navigating the reef structure safely.
24.35390, 123.95150
Check current state and direction with your operator before entering, as Yonara Channel's strong flow can shift and requires precise timing to get the best of the manta activity. Facilities are unconfirmed, so arrive self-sufficient with all equipment ready to enter from the boat efficiently.
Boat entry only.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
Up to 24m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-30°C
Current
Strong
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the strong currents and drift conditions.
The reef terrain at Yonara Channel extends from the shallows down to a maximum depth of 24 metres.
This is a boat-access site; a boat is required to reach the channel and manage the drift entry.
No, this is a drift dive site designed for scuba divers, and it is not suitable for snorkelling due to the strong currents.
Water temperatures range from 24C in the winter months to 30C in August.
Diving at Yonara Channel in Kohama Island requires the following certifications: Intermediate, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Yonara Channel in Kohama Island. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.