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Komodo National Park has a strict no-gloves policy for all recreational divers. This rule applies universally — there are no exceptions, even in the park's coldest southern waters.
The glove ban exists for one simple reason: it discourages divers from touching marine life and coral. Research and experience have shown that divers wearing gloves are significantly more likely to grab coral for stability, touch marine animals out of curiosity, and rest their hands on reef structures during stops. Without gloves, divers instinctively keep their hands away from sharp, stinging, or fragile surfaces — which protects both the diver and the reef.
| Argument | Response |
|---|---|
| "But the water is cold in south Komodo" | True — 19°C is cold. Tuck your hands into your armpits or cross your arms between dives. The conservation benefit outweighs the discomfort. |
| "I need gloves for the reef hook" | Reef hooks are designed to be used without gloves. The handle is typically wrapped in non-slip material. |
| "I won't touch anything, I promise" | The rule applies to all divers without exception. Individual promises cannot be verified, and the policy works best as a blanket rule. |
| "What about fire coral and stinging hydroids?" | Maintain good buoyancy and keep your hands close to your body. The no-gloves rule actually improves overall diver awareness of their hand placement. |
The bigger picture: The glove ban is part of Komodo's broader conservation approach that prioritises reef health over diver convenience. It is one of the reasons Komodo's reefs remain among the healthiest in the Coral Triangle.
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