Batu Abah diving in Nusa Penida

Batu Abah, also called Vertigo Point, is an offshore pinnacle on Nusa Penida's remote south-east coast, rising from around 40 metres to within about 12 metres of the surface. It sits where several current systems meet, which is exactly what makes it worth the longer boat ride: that convergence draws pelagic life past a small patch of reef rather than spreading it thin over an open coastline.

It is one of the furthest sites Sober Diving runs, which is why it carries the same fuel surcharge as Manta Point and Malibu Point, and why trips out here are less frequent than to the island's closer sites.

Boats typically approach from upcurrent and divers descend quickly toward a plateau around 25 metres on the pinnacle's eastern shoulder, where the guide can read the current's direction and strength before committing to a route around the rock. Crosscurrents are common, with the surface sometimes moving differently to the water around 15 metres and again near the bottom.

This is advanced diving. Batu Abah is reserved for experienced, current-comfortable divers only, and Sober Diving runs it selectively, when conditions on the day make it a safe, worthwhile trip rather than every time it is requested.

The pinnacle acts as a cleaning station for mola mola during the July to October season, and is considered one of the less crowded places in Nusa Penida to find one. Grey reef sharks patrol the current lines, and green turtles use the site as a waypoint. It is not a site for anyone still building current experience; it suits divers who already dive comfortably at sites like Crystal Bay or Blue Corner and want to go further.