La Passe Canon

La Passe Canon is a classic east‑coast pass drift dive near Belle Mare / Quatre Cocos. The channel funnels tidal flow and carries divers along coral edges and sandy gutters at depths typically between 5 and 18 m, offering fast, scenic drifts and frequent encounters with schooling fish and larger visitors.

The dive is best run with a local operator who times the run to the tide. When currents are light the pass suits OWD+ divers under guide supervision; when the flow strengthens it becomes an advanced drift requiring precise buoyancy control, SMB procedures and close adherence to the boat pickup plan.

Site Character

La Passe Canon is a narrow channel cut through the reef that produces a sustained drift. The route follows coral bommies, ledges and sandy channels; divers typically enter upstream and drift through to a prearranged pickup point. Visibility can be excellent but varies with tide and swell.

Marine Life

The pass attracts schooling trevallies, jacks and fusiliers, with eagle rays, turtles and occasional reef sharks or larger pelagics passing through. Cleaner stations and small reef species (wrasses, butterflyfish, damselfish) line the coral edges while sandy patches may host rays and flatfish.

Depth and Typical Profile

Depths range from about 5 m in the shallowest sections to 18 m in deeper gutters. Typical profiles are shallow to moderate, but the drift nature of the site means divers must monitor depth and ascent rate closely and follow the guide’s plan for safety stops and pickup procedures.

Difficulty and Skills Required

Type: Drift dive / Pass. Difficulty: OWD+ for mild currents; Advanced Open Water recommended for moderate to strong currents. Required skills include controlled buoyancy, drift navigation, buddy awareness, SMB deployment and the ability to maintain position relative to the guide and the reef.