Best places to dive with Humphead wrasse

A territorial reef resident, present year-round on Baa's outer reefs — one Baa site is named Napoleon Reef for its resident giants.

Napoleon wrasse are resident along both passes and the drop-offs, large and curious. The IUCN lists the species as Endangered. Reliable year-round but as individuals, not schools.

Resident year-round and most reliable at Shark Reef (Ras Mohammed) and Ras Umm Sid, where individuals are used to divers and often approach closely.

Resident giants at Blue Corner.

Resident on the Ribbon Reefs (locally called Maori wrasse); commonly seen at the Cod Hole and along outer reef walls. Endangered globally, protected in the Marine Park. Not seasonal.

Napoleon (humphead) wrasse are common on the walls here — Tubbataha holds a healthy population of this endangered species.

Napoleon wrasse are drawn to the cleaning station at Fukui Point and cruise the exposed walls; large individuals are seen but they are wary.

Napoleon wrasse are reported cruising past at Batu Bolong, Crystal Rock and German Flag through the year. Individually large and often solitary, so encounters are per-dive luck rather than seasonal — coded occasional, year-round, with no month weighting. Listed Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and Komodo's protected status is part of why they are still here.

Napoleon (humphead) wrasse are reported on the Pescador wall; encounters are hit-or-miss.

Napoleon (humphead) wrasse are regular visitors to the larger reef and boulder sites. IUCN Endangered; sightings are occasional, not guaranteed.

On the reef (Sipadan closed in November).

Napoleon (humphead) wrasse are reported at Fingers and Whale Reef year-round. Single large individuals, not groups.

Napoleon wrasse are seen on the walls and along drop-offs; large individuals are present but not on every dive.