Diving with Ocean Sunfish
The Most Unique Fish in the Sea
The ocean sunfish, commonly known as the Mola mola, are one of the most extraordinary fish found in the ocean. Due to their round, flattened form they are reminiscent of a millstone, called mola in Latin. Ocean sunfish are found in both temperate and tropical regions around the world. They are frequently seen near the surface, an amazing site to witness as they bask in the sun to raise their body temperature after deep ocean dives, sometimes as deep as 600 meters!
As the heaviest bony fish on earth, the ocean sunfish can reach a maximum body length of over 3 meters, a height of up to 4 meters, and weigh over 2 tons. On its skin live a variety of parasites and organisms, therefore, they are often seen being cleaned by various fish and even seabirds as it floats on the surface. These parasites can also create a magnificent bioluminescence that light up the Mola mola at night. Would you like to see this amazing phenomenon in person and dive with the ocean sunfish? Click here to discover the best places around the globe to dive with the Mola mola, one of the ocean’s most gentle giants.
Dive Sites with this Animal View more on map
★★★★★ USAT Liberty Wreck
This is the only historical shipwreck in Bali, ranked #3 in the world for Wreck diving! The wreck is 25 meters form shore at a depth of 4 to 29 meters below the surface with most of it occuring in a shallow area. This dive site does not have strong currents, has clear water, and warm temperatures. Difficult entry!
★★★★☆ Ullastre II
A 25-minute boat ride down the coast, in front of Calella, there are three underwater mountains called Los Ullastres. From beginner to advanced, there is a lot to see for every diver. Beautiful steep walls with gorgonians and lots of fish are just one example. A torch is recommended.
★★★★☆ Ullastre III
Located practically in front of, and less than two miles from, the port of Llafranc, you will find three fantastic underwater mountains called Els Ullastres.
★★★★★ Koh Bida Nok
This is one our favourite dive sites since it has the widest range of wildlife. The reef gently slopes down from the island apart from the wall at the south west which drops 22-26 meters.
★★★★☆ Marsa Shagra House Reef
Marsa Shagara is a bay with an easy sand bottom entrance that leads to South or North reef dives. The depth starts at 1m and drops to 40m + outside the bay. It is one of the most pristine house reef dives in the south. This dive is great for entry level and experienced divers.
★★★★★ Manta Point, Nusa Penida
Located in the south of Nusa Penida Island and facing the Indian Ocean, Manta Point can often have big waves. This dive site has large rock mounds which are often visited by manta rays for self cleaning, giving this site it’s name.