Kodak’s Korner

Background:

The Territory of Christmas Island is a territory of Australia in the Indian Ocean. It has a population of approximately 1,600 residents who live in a number of “settlement areas” on the northern tip of the island: Flying Fish Cove (also known as Kampong), Silver City, Poon Saan, and Drumsite.

The island’s geographic isolation and history of minimal human disturbance has led to a high level of endemism amongst its flora and fauna, which is of significant interest to scientists and naturalists. Among its most famous draws are the red crab migration and whale shark sightings. 63% of its 135 square kilometres (52 sq mi) is National Park and there are large areas of primary rainforest.

[Thanks to Wikipedia for a memory refresh on Christmas Island]

Dive Profile:

Location: 2,600 kilometres (1,600 mi) northwest of the Western Australian city of Perth, 500 km (310 mi) south of the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, and 975 km (606 mi) ENE of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Depth: Reef walls with depths in excess of 70m (~210 feet)

Experience level: Beginner to intermediate

Certification Recommendation: Advanced Openwater or Equiv.

Other: Steep drop offs and sometimes strong currents make it essential to watch your depth gauge closely.

Wildlife: A very healthy coral reef supports a myriad of fish species. Whale sharks, bronze whalers and white tip reef sharks, dolphins and turtles also make an appearance.

Enjoy these photos taken at Christmas Island - and as always, click for larger images.

[View with PicLens]