Batu Gila, to the north east of Dominic Rock, is one of the best Togian dive sites for big fish action. The exposed ridge offers the chance to see scalloped hammerhead sharks, grey reef sharks and silvertip sharks. Manta rays, tuna and large schools of barracuda can also be seen. Visibility is usually excellent but currents can be strong and as the dive site is between 28m and 45m deep, this is a dive for experienced divers only. 
B24 Bomber Wreck. This American Liberator bomber from the 307th squadron crash landed in Tomini bay on 3 May 1945 after an engine fire. After skidding along the surface for 50 metres the plane came to a halt close to Togian Island where it shortly sank. All 11 crew safely abondoned the plane to life rafts.
The wreck is 17 metres long and 22 metres wide and lies upright facing north west in 22 metres of water. The nose turret and three of the four propellers were lost when the plane crash landed but one remaining propeller is still on the right side wing. Machine guns are still mounted on the rear of the aircraft.
Parachute harnesses can be seen inside the fuselage and the pilot and co-pilot's chairs are still in place. All in all the wreck is in excellent condition.
Coral and sponge has encrusted the plane in patches. There are tube and barrel sponges plus colourful sea squirts and tunicates on the wings. Lionfish and scorpionfish have made their homes around the wreck. Batfish hang out at the tail. Large schools of big eye trevally circle above the wreck.
Currents are normally mild. Visibility is usually 10-15m but the shallow depth makes this an excellent dive for all levels of diver. |
