Te Ava Nui

Te Ava Nui is situated in the heart of the Fakarava UNESCO biosphere reserve, a location that places you directly alongside some of the most significant marine ecosystems in French Polynesia. The centre is positioned at the exit of Rotoava village, providing easy access to the area's most iconic dive sites.

You can spend your time exploring the famous passes or settling into the local culture. For those seeking a deeper connection to the islands, the centre offers accommodation in traditional bungalows located at the Paumutu village exit, where transfers are included.

The centre provides a range of services including exploration dives, training courses, and discovery dives for beginners. They also organise snorkeling trips and private tours for those looking for a more tailored experience.

Instruction is available for all levels, from those taking their first breaths underwater to more advanced divers. The team is focused on providing professional guidance throughout the Fakarava archipelago.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of training, from initial discovery dives to formal certification courses. You can work towards becoming an Open Water Diver or progress through more advanced levels.

For those looking to deepen their technical skills, the centre provides specialized training to help you master the unique conditions found in the Fakarava passes.

For divers looking to extend their bottom time, Nitrox is available on-site. The centre is equipped to handle various diving needs to ensure you are ready for the currents of the passes.

The marine life in these passes is prolific, featuring large pelagics and diverse reef species. You will encounter various sharks, including Blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus), Grey reef shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos), and Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), alongside schools of Jack (Carangidae) and Barracuda (Sphyraena).

Other common residents include Tuna (Thunnus), Manta ray (Mobula alfredi), and Eagle ray (Aetobatus). You will also see various rays (Batoidea), Dolphin (Delphinidae), and diverse schools of fish such as perch schools and batfish.

The reef itself is home to a wide array of colourful fish, including Parrotfish (Calotomus), Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), and various species of surgeonfish, groupers, and red snappers. Bigeyes and various tropical fish are also frequently seen throughout the area.

Diving in the passes is subject to local weather conditions and requires a minimum number of participants for certain outings. The currents can vary depending on the specific pass and the tide.