Diving atFabrice´s Monkey Island (Cambodia)
Fabrice´s Monkey Island offers a welcoming underwater environment, defined by its shallow reef and open ocean interface. Conditions here often feature great visibility, making it an ideal setting for divers seeking comfortable experiences. With a maximum depth of 8 m / 26 ft, it's particularly well-suited for entry-level training and those new to the underwater world. A largely gentle topography provides an accessible and reassuring experience beneath the surface.
Evening condition tracking at Fabrice´s Monkey Island features an air temperature of 29.6°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.46m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
10.2948, 103.1565
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Fabrice's Monkey Island earned its distinctive name from an anecdote involving a dive instructor, Fabrice, who reportedly encountered some local simian inhabitants during his explorations of the small island. This site, once supporting a small bar, has since become a tranquil gateway into Cambodia's underwater world, particularly well-suited for those seeking a gentle introduction or advancing their foundational skills.
It serves primarily as a reef and open ocean interface dive, intentionally designed to offer clarity and ease. This makes it a preferred location for conducting initial PADI certifications and adaptive support diver training. Divers typically access the site via boat, arriving directly at the designated entry points.
The consistent saltwater conditions are characteristic of the region. With a maximum depth of just 8 m / 26 ft, the site ensures a relaxed and easily manageable profile for all participants, whether they are taking their first breaths underwater or refining buoyancy.
Excellent visibility is a frequent characteristic here, providing clear, unobstructed views of the shallow marine environment. This clarity allows new divers to fully concentrate on skill acquisition and buoyancy control without the added challenge of low visibility.
The gentle topography and benign conditions combine to foster confidence, establishing a robust and reassuring foundation for continued underwater exploration. Its accessibility means it's not just for beginners; it's also excellent for refreshing skills or enjoying a calm, less demanding dive.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive at Fabrice's Monkey Island involves considering seasonal shifts. Conditions from January through April and again in December typically offer excellent diving, characterized by low rainfall, generally calm waters with average wave heights around 0.38-0.40 m / 1.2-1.3 ft, and moderate winds. Air temperatures during these prime months range from 27-29°C / 81-84°F. However, months from June to September experience higher average rainfall, sometimes exceeding 14 mm / 0.5 inches, along with increased wave heights of 0.62-0.72 m / 2-2.4 ft and stronger winds, potentially making for choppier boat rides. Water temperature isn't consistently reported, but it generally aligns with warm tropical conditions given the air temperatures. Shoulder months of May, October, and November still offer good diving, though with slightly more rain and wind compared to the peak dry season.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Current dynamics at Fabrice´s Monkey Island are generally gentle, contributing to its reputation as an excellent site for new divers and training. Visibility here is frequently noted as great, allowing for clear views of the shallow reef and ocean topography. Divers can expect a maximum depth of 8 m / 26 ft, which maintains a comfortable and easily manageable profile. Water type is saltwater, as expected in coastal Cambodian waters. While specific real-time current strengths aren't always reported, suitability for Open Water Diver and Adaptive Support Diver training implies conditions are typically benign, avoiding strong, unpredictable flows. Consistent air temperatures, ranging between 27-29°C / 81-84°F for much of the year, suggest warm water, though precise water temperature readings are not consistently reported for this specific location.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Navigating the environment at Fabrice's Monkey Island presents few significant challenges, making it a safe choice for many divers. Given its shallow profile—with a maximum depth of 8 m / 26 ft—and calm conditions, the primary focus should be on fundamental safe diving practices. Maintaining good buoyancy control is always important, especially when navigating delicate reef areas. As a site recommended for PADI Open Water Diver and Adaptive Support Diver courses, adherence to training protocols is key. Divers should always plan their dive, dive their plan, and stay within their certified limits. A surface marker buoy is a sensible piece of equipment for visibility to boat traffic upon surfacing. While specific hazards aren't consistently reported, standard buddy procedures and pre-dive checks remain essential for a smooth experience.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Thermal protection such as dive skin or rash guard is commonly used for water temperatures in this range. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Divers planning a dive at Fabrice´s Monkey Island today will likely encounter water temperatures close to 31°C (87°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 30°C (85°F).
Current forecasts indicate relatively stable conditions for the coming days.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
Check local Cambodia medical facilities.
Entry Requirements
View Cambodia Visa Hub
Currency
KHR
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at Fabrice´s Monkey Island
Approaching the reef and open ocean areas, divers might first notice the possibilities of larger pelagic species. While specific resident populations aren't consistently reported for this particular spot, surrounding waters are known for sightings that include sharks, dolphins, and various species of turtles. These animals typically traverse open ocean, occasionally venturing closer to shallow island structures. Whale sightings are less frequent but not unheard of in the broader region. Calm, clear conditions often permit good viewing opportunities for anything passing by.
Dive Sites Near Fabrice´s Monkey Island
View all dive sites in CambodiaDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Fabrice´s Monkey Island
No Dive Centers Local To Fabrice´s Monkey Island
Are you a dive center visiting this location? Get listed to reach divers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum diving depth at Fabrice's Monkey Island?
Maximum recommended depth for diving at Fabrice's Monkey Island is 8 m / 26 ft. This shallow profile makes it ideal for training and less experienced divers.
Is Fabrice's Monkey Island suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, Fabrice's Monkey Island is considered excellent for beginners and training. Its calm conditions, great visibility, and shallow depth create an ideal learning environment for courses like PADI Open Water Diver.
When is the best time to dive Fabrice's Monkey Island?
Generally, the best time to dive is from January to April and again in December. These months offer excellent conditions with minimal rain, calm waves, and pleasant air temperatures ranging from 27-29°C / 81-84°F.
What type of diving can I expect at this site?
You can expect both reef and ocean diving at Fabrice's Monkey Island. The site offers a gentle introduction to these environments, characterized by its shallow, accessible topography.
How do divers access Fabrice's Monkey Island?
Access to Fabrice's Monkey Island is primarily by boat. Dive operators typically transport divers directly to the site for entries.
What kind of marine life might I see at Fabrice's Monkey Island?
While specific resident marine life populations aren't consistently reported, the broader area is known for sightings of sharks, dolphins, and various species of turtles. These animals may be encountered traversing the open water near the island.
Are there any specific PADI courses recommended for this site?
Fabrice's Monkey Island is a recommended site for PADI Open Water Diver and Adaptive Support Diver courses, due to its generally calm conditions and shallow depth.
Liveaboards Sailing to Fabrice´s Monkey Island
Explore highly rated liveaboards visiting this dive site and discover the best routes in Cambodia.
Resorts & Accommodation
Find partner hotels and dive resorts directly accessing the reef.
Around This Area
Explore top-rated restaurants, activities, and attractions near Fabrice´s Monkey Island reviewed by travelers.
Planning to dive Fabrice´s Monkey Island?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.