Trip report describing Pulau Pokal as a current-swept reef with anthias over healthy corals.
Current-swept channel pinnacle in North Maluku.
Current-swept channel pinnacle in North Maluku.
Pulau Pokal is a boat-accessed current-swept reef in the Patinti Strait of North Maluku. A high rock rises in the middle of the channel, with a long plateau and healthy coral growth that make the site feel more like a moving-water reef than a casual cruise. Divers come for the reef structure, the anthias cloud, and a dive plan that rewards steady buoyancy and close attention to the guide.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
Up to 30m
Depth Note
A high rock in the middle of the channel with a long plateau at about 30 meters.
Best Season
October to May
Typical Conditions
Warm water, current-swept reef structure, and healthy coral cover.
Site conditions, restrictions, and access requirements.
Site Conditions
Safety Notes
Very strong currents are common; plan dives for appropriate tidal/current conditions and remain alert for venomous species such as stonefish and scorpionfish.
Access Restrictions
Boat access only; best reached with a liveaboard or local operator itinerary.
Legal Notes
Follow local marine-area rules and liveaboard briefings.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Best suited to experienced divers due to frequently very strong current and terrain of blocks and gullies.
Freediving
Not a freedive-first site; the moving water and channel structure make scuba the safer fit.
Snorkeling
Not a snorkel-first site; the current-swept channel and plateau are better suited to scuba.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Trip report describing Pulau Pokal as a current-swept reef with anthias over healthy corals.
Geographic zone report listing Pulau Pokal in North Maluku.
Halmahera and Lembeh liveaboard itinerary with Pulau Pokal among common stops and best season October to May.
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