Washing Machine

Tubbataha Reef

Dive Site Photos

Summary

Washing Machine is an exposed, steep reef site defined by canyon-like channels, coral pinnacles and strong, swirling tidal flows that create a "washing machine" effect. The dive is noted for dramatic walls and rich reef life, with large reef fishes and pelagics common; grey reef sharks frequent the drop-offs and manta rays or whale sharks may pass by occasionally. Typical dives range from shallow reef tops around 5-10 m down to about 25-30 m. Visibility often exceeds 20-30 m and water temperatures are generally about 26-29°C. Access is by liveaboard boat only and dives are usually drifted along the reef edge. Currents are strong and highly variable, capable of changing direction mid-dive, so the site is recommended for advanced divers only and standard drift-dive protocols apply. Conditions can be seasonally calmer between March and May, but currents remain unpredictable.

Tags

reef
deep
boat
wall
topography
pinnacle
drift
currents
advanced

Marine Life

grey reef shark
whitetip reef shark
hammerhead shark
whale shark
great barracuda
longnose trevally
russells snapper
anthias
green turtle
hawksbill turtle

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