Layang Layang Diving
D'Wall
It seems the derivation of the name of this dive has got lost in time. Most likely the written form of a lazy, Asian pronunciation of ‘The Wall’, it is one of the only genuinely vertical walls in Layang-Layang. In fact, the wall is so steep here that it actually overhangs for the majority of the dive, so it's a good idea to bring a torch along on this dive.
There is a large shelf in the wall at about 40 metres, which it would be wise to use as the maximum depth marker to your dive. Making your way down to this level, you'll witness the tremendous colours of the wall, peppered with colourful nudibranchs, some enormous barrel sponges, large drooping fans of red, blue and purple, and the radiant violet of large tropical anthias.
But don't keep your head wedged in D'wall at all times. There may be sharks here too. Grey reef sharks and, at the right time of year, schools of hammerhead sharks will be cruising past the Layang Layang atoll.
Back at 25 metres you'll first come across a small triangular cove, which a dozen or so giant trevally use as their lair. A little further on is another larger shelf, adorned by black coral bushes, and also inhabited by trevallies, groupers and emporer angelfish. Examine the orange gorgonians to the left of the entrance as here you will find pygmy seahorses, and sometimes giant frogfish nearby.
Shortly after the ledges, the wall will change abruptly into a slope, signalling the start of your ascent. Spotted sweetlips watch you suspiciously as you swim up to the coral gardens at your safety stop level. Once there you can check out the orange-spined unicornfish, yellow breasted wrasse and skunk anemonefish. This is such a large and amazing Layang Layang dive site, it needs several visits to feel you've seen it all. D'End.
D'Wall Reef Basics: Vertical wall
Depth: 5 - >40m
Visibility: 20 - 40m
Currents: Moderate
Surface conditions: Can be rough
Water temperature: 25 - 30°C
Experience level: Intermediate - advanced
Number of dive sites: 2
Diving season: February to October
Distance: 15 minutes by boat, west from Layang Layang Resort pier
Access: Layang-Layang dive resort
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