Nova Dive Ishigaki

Ishigaki Island is one of Japan's premier diving destinations, defined by its sprawling coral reef systems and the frequent presence of large pelagics. The waters here offer a tropical environment where visibility is a constant highlight for those looking to explore the seabed.

NOVA DIVE Ishigaki is a PADI affiliated centre positioned to make the most of these local conditions. Whether you are looking to complete your first certification or are an experienced diver seeking manta ray encounters, the centre focuses on small-group excursions tailored to the day's specific marine conditions.

The centre is led by Addison Sofa, a highly experienced diver with 25 years in the industry and a personal logbook exceeding 6,000 dives. This depth of experience informs the way the centre operates, prioritising local knowledge and safe, personalised guiding.

Instruction is provided in English and Thai, making it accessible for international divers visiting the Ryukyu Islands. The team maintains a low diver-to-guide ratio, typically providing one guide per group, which allows for closer attention to your buoyancy and comfort during the dive.

For those starting their journey, the centre offers PADI Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver courses. To make the process more efficient, the theory is handled via PADI e-Learning, allowing you to complete your studies at your own pace before you arrive on the island.

Because of this digital approach, it is possible to complete your full certification in as little as two days. The centre also caters to those looking for introductory experiences through Discover Scuba Diving programmes.

The centre provides a complete range of rental kit for those not travelling with their own equipment. This includes regulators, BCDs, wetsuits, fins, and masks, ensuring you have everything required for a day on the water.

All necessary weights and cylinders are included as part of the training and excursion packages, allowing you to focus on the dive itself rather than logistics.

The reefs around Ishigaki are famous for their large resident species. You will regularly encounter sea turtles and various tropical fish patrolling the coral structures. The area is particularly renowned for its manta ray sightings, which are a primary draw for divers in these waters.

On the reef flat and amongst the corals, you will find a diverse array of smaller life. Sea cucumbers and various nudibranchs inhabit the seabed, providing plenty of interest for those who prefer macro photography or close-up observation.

The ecosystem is supported by healthy coral growth, which provides the essential habitat for the local marine life to thrive.

Underwater visibility in the area is generally excellent, typically ranging between 20 and 25 metres. This clarity makes for easy navigation and excellent viewing of the reef architecture.

The centre's guides monitor the daily conditions closely, selecting the best dive sites based on the current swell and marine activity to ensure the best possible experience for each group.