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The DOCK (Dive Operators Community Komodo) mooring buoy system is one of the most successful industry-led marine conservation initiatives in Indonesia. It directly prevents anchor damage to Komodo's coral reefs.
DOCK is a self-regulatory body formed by Komodo's dive operators. Its members collectively fund, install, and maintain permanent mooring buoys at dive sites across the park. Instead of dropping anchors on coral reefs, boats tie up to these fixed buoys, eliminating anchor damage entirely.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Concrete block or reef pin | Permanently fixed to the seabed in a sandy or rubble area (never on live coral) |
| Heavy-duty chain and rope | Connects the anchor block to the surface buoy |
| Surface buoy | Floating marker that boats tie their mooring line to |
| Pickup line | Rope that boat crew grabs to secure the vessel |
Despite DOCK's efforts, some non-member boats — particularly island-hopping tour boats and fishing vessels — still anchor on reefs. Enforcement remains a challenge, and expanding the mooring buoy network to cover all frequently visited sites requires ongoing funding and coordination with park authorities.
How to support DOCK: Choose dive operators that are DOCK members. Your diving fees contribute to buoy maintenance and expansion. Ask your operator about their DOCK membership and conservation contributions when booking.