Nailaka Wall

Nailaka Wall is a wall dive adjacent to Pulau Nailaka, a tiny sandbar island just off the western tip of Pulau Run (Rhun). Pulau Run is historically significant as one of the original nutmeg-producing Banda Islands, traded by the Dutch to the English in exchange for Manhattan Island in 1667. The remote location — approximately 2 hours by boat from Banda Neira — has kept the reefs in excellent condition.

Overview

The wall descends from around 10 m at the reef crest to 30 m along a vertical face draped in large barrel sponges and sea fans. A resident herd of bumphead parrotfish — one source counted at least 18 individuals on a single dive — is reported here, and hawksbill turtles are reported in the broader Run/Nailaka area.

The outer wall is notably healthy compared to more accessible sites closer to Banda Neira. Currents can be strong on exposed sections, making this a productive drift dive; the sandy shallows between Nailaka and Run offer a calmer alternative when current is running on the wall.

Dive Profile

Wall from 10 m to 30 m, with strong currents on exposed sections making it a strong drift dive. Advanced rating reflects the remote location and currents rather than depth alone. Visibility: 20–30 m. Water temperature: 27–29°C.

Marine Life

• Bumphead parrotfish (resident herd; at least 18 counted on one dive per Bottles Up Diving)
• Hawksbill turtles (reported for the Run/Nailaka area)
• Large barrel sponges and sea fans on the wall face
• Moray eels in barrel sponge crevices
• No source consulted separately confirms Napoleon wrasse, leather corals, or a distinct 45 m north section specifically at Nailaka — those details have been removed as unconfirmed for this specific site

Entry / Exit

Boat dive from liveaboard. Pulau Run/Nailaka requires approximately a 2-hour transit from Banda Neira and is typically only reached by liveaboard or dedicated day-trip charter.

Tips

• Best combined with Run Island’s other sites on the same day’s transit
• Check current conditions before committing to the wall — the sandy shallows provide a productive alternative on stronger-current days
• A strong drift dive — plan entry, exit, and pickup with your guide

Photography

Wide-angle barrel sponge and sea fan photography on the wall. The bumphead parrotfish herd provides an excellent action subject. Clear water and healthy coral growth support ambient-light wide-angle work.

Sources: Bottles Up Diving - Banda Islands, Dive The World - Banda Islands, Merapi Tours - Banda Archipelago Dive Spots. Last updated 2026-07-17.