Diving atRocky Ridge (Cambodia)
Rocky Ridge, at Koh Tang's southern tip, provides a captivating deep dive experience down to 24 m / 78 ft. It primarily serves certified divers keen on exploring substantial fan coral formations. An excellent location for PADI Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Self-Reliant Diver training, it offers a robust underwater environment for skill development.
As evening covers Rocky Ridge, the local air temperature is measured at 29.6°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.42m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
10.2662, 103.1460
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Rocky Ridge stands as the deepest dive site surrounding Koh Tang, defined by its substantial rocky topography. Divers access this impressive underwater structure primarily by boat, exploring a terrain abundant with massive fan corals.
These formations are a significant highlight, anchoring a vibrant ecosystem and creating numerous sheltered spots for smaller marine life. Rocky contours contribute to a varied dive profile, allowing for exploration along ledges and pinnacles that descend further into the blue. Visibility in the general area varies, ranging from 5 to 35 metres / 16 to 115 ft, though averaging around 10 metres / 33 ft.
Such variability means each dive can offer a slightly different perspective. Water temperatures remain comfortably warm throughout the year, typically between 28-30°C / 82-86°F.
Pleasant conditions mean no need for thick wetsuits. Dives here suit those holding PADI Open Water Diver certification or higher; advanced training like Self-Reliant Diver is also beneficial, enabling independent exploration within safe limits.
Its depth and exploration potential make it a rewarding site for divers comfortable navigating deeper profiles.
Best Time to Dive
Diving conditions are significantly impacted by seasonal patterns, with the northeast monsoon season from December through April generally offering optimal conditions. These months bring sunny, dry weather to the region, and dive scores are consistently rated 'Excellent'. Air temperatures average between 27.3-29.2°C / 81-85°F, alongside minimal rainfall, averaging less than 3 mm per month, which ensures calm waters and favorable visibility. Conversely, May to November brings higher rainfall, reaching up to 16.8 mm in September. Increased wave heights and wind speeds also characterize this period, affecting surface conditions and underwater visibility. While still considered 'Good' for diving, conditions become less predictable.
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
Accessing Rocky Ridge is exclusively by boat, bringing divers to its offshore location. Once submerged, divers navigate depths up to 24 m / 78 ft, making it suitable for those with a PADI Open Water Diver certification and above. Visibility typically varies across seasons, anywhere from 5 to 35 metres, with average conditions often around 10 metres. Water temperatures remain consistently warm, staying within a comfortable 28-30°C / 82-86°F year-round, which contributes to a comfortable dive profile. While not consistently reported for Rocky Ridge specifically, offshore sites in the region sometimes experience currents; local advice on drift diving potential is always prudent for planning.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Planning a dive at Rocky Ridge requires attention to depth limits and personal certification levels, as it is the deepest site around Koh Tang. Since local operator quality can vary, conducting thorough research to ensure a reputable dive center and experienced guides is essential. Adhering to responsible diving practices, such as maintaining proper buoyancy and respecting marine life, contributes to a safe experience. There are no consistently reported specific hazards for this site, but general dive safety rules, including never diving alone without proper training and always checking equipment, apply.
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
Dive skin or rash guard is often considered an appropriate level of exposure protection for conditions like these. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Divers planning a dive at Rocky Ridge today will likely encounter water temperatures close to 31°C (87°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 30°C (85°F).
The upcoming forecast points to generally steady conditions in the area.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
KHR
Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at Rocky Ridge
Massive fan corals stand as the site's most striking feature, forming an impressive backdrop for exploration. Expansive gorgonian fans, some reaching considerable sizes, create a dynamic habitat and are often vibrantly colored. They serve as nurseries and feeding grounds for various reef fish. Divers often observe a variety of marine life congregating around these structures, including schools of fusiliers, snappers, and occasional groupers. While not guaranteed on every dive, regional sightings include the possibility of pelagic species such as reef sharks, especially in deeper sections. Larger migratory marine life like whales and dolphins are sometimes spotted in surrounding waters. Various species of turtles are also known to frequent the area. Biodiversity here contributes to a dynamic underwater experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at Rocky Ridge?
Rocky Ridge is the deepest dive site around Koh Tang, reaching a maximum depth of 24 meters or 78 feet. This depth makes it suitable for divers with at least an Open Water Diver certification.
What training is useful for diving Rocky Ridge?
This site is recommended for divers holding a PADI Open Water Diver certification. PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and Self-Reliant Diver training are also beneficial for navigating its depths and exploring independently.
What kind of marine life might I see at Rocky Ridge?
The primary highlight is the presence of massive fan corals. Regionally, divers sometimes encounter larger pelagics such as sharks, whales, dolphins, and various species of turtles.
When is the best time of year to dive at Rocky Ridge?
The optimal period for diving is from December to April during the dry, northeast monsoon season. This time generally offers sunny weather, minimal rain, and the best underwater visibility.
What are the typical water temperatures at the site?
Water temperatures at Rocky Ridge are consistently warm throughout the year. Divers can expect comfortable conditions with temperatures ranging between 28-30°C / 82-86°F.
How do divers access Rocky Ridge?
Access to Rocky Ridge is exclusively by boat. Dive operators typically depart from mainland Sihanoukville or the nearby islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Saloem.
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Resorts & Accommodation
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Around This Area
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