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The coral-packed channel

Gamat Bay, Nusa Penida

A narrow channel between Nusa Penida and Ceningan with dense hard coral and clouds of orange anthias. Coral density is the draw here.

Depth2–8 m

ConditionsCan run current

LevelBeginner with guide

Best timeAll year on slack tide

Gamat Bay is a small, steep-sided bay that opens into the channel between Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan. The current that runs through the channel feeds a reef of remarkable density — table corals, staghorn thickets and soft corals crowded with anthias, damselfish and the occasional turtle. Drift gently along the wall with your guide and let the current do the work.

Because the channel can run, the captain decides on the morning whether Gamat is on the route.