Dive Indonesia

Enjoy diving in Alor

Indonesia is home to lots of enchanting dive sites. Mention some of them, from the beautiful Raja Ampat, Papua to peaceful Gili Trawangan in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. All boast their natural underwater beauty that cannot be missed. Besides all those places, there is one more divers’ paradise that you cannot simply ignore, Alor.

This island of Alor, part of East Nusa Tenggara province, is located between Flores and Sawoe Sea. This island poses untouched natural beauty, surrounded with crystal clear water and of course, 60 dazzling dive sites. No wonder this island is dubbed a diver’s Mecca. The most unique thing about Aloris that you can feel the different sea water temperature while diving. You can feel the warm water on one side, but when you move forward, the temperature is cooler. It is because the island is the meeting point of two currents.

Once considered a remote area, now the archipelago is easier to access. You can arrive in Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara from Jakarta, Surabaya or Denpasar then you can continue your trip to Alor by TransNusa airlines, a carrier that offers flights to some destinations in West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, Bali and Makassar.

There are several good diving centers in Alor. Despite its reputation as one of the world’s dive destinations, some of dive centers here are run by expats. Here are brief profiles of those diving centers in Alor:

• Dive Alor Dive

One of the best diving centers in Alor. Make sure you book in advance as this center is always fully booked, especially in high season. This center is more than just a diving center as it really arranges your trip from scratch. As Kupang-Alor-Kupang flights are not available online, you can have your flight ticket  booked, purchased and confirmed for you for free.

This center is run by Donovan Whitford, a PADI Divemaster from Australia. He is very generous and well-known for his personalized service for all guests. In addition, he often offers discount such as free unlimited diving (normally 18 Euro per dive) and free full equipment rental (normally 18 Euro per day).

• La P’tit Kepa

Run by Cedric, a friendly Frenchman. This is the first land based dive operator in Alor, in Kepa Island. This center is also considered as the most affordable dive center in this island. You can dive twice per day, but if you want more and try a night dive, they can arrange it for you. From two up to five dive, the charge is 28 Euro per dive (equals to package with 56 Euro per two dives for one day). Do you want to dive 18 times or more? The charge is 22 Euro per dive. Boat trip, dive guide, snack & hot drink,  tank & weigh are included.

The accommodation here is really unique. The bungalows are made of bamboo and coconut trees, that shows respect to local culture. The price is affordable, from Rp. 175.000,- to Rp. 600.000,- for exclusive bungalows for single occupancy.

• Alor Divers

Alor Divers is considered as the most expensive dive center in Alor. However, there are some packages available for non divers who want to enjoy the beautiful island. Diver packages start from 969 Euro for 6 nights or 5 full days to 1790 Euro for 13 nights or 12 full days. While for non divers, the price starts from 520 Euro for 6 nights or 5 full days and 980 Euro for 13 nights or 12 full days.

Make sure you pay 25% deposit in order to confirm your booking (by bank transfer). They do not accept credit card yet.

So, what are you waiting for? Let us go diving in one of the divers’ paradise in Alor.

Where to dive in Manado

Talking about Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, Indonesia will cannot be separated from Bunaken, one the most famous marinepark. Needless to say, you will be exposed by the enchanting waters of Bunaken and a lot of activities you can do there as there are around 30 top dive sites in that beautiful place.

Besides that fact, the city of Manado is the gateway to Lembeh Straits, one of the mut-see muck diving sites in the world. With all those facts, it is clear why Manado always attracts divers from all over the world.

There are so many resorts with diving centers in Manado that can cater your needs. Here are some of them:

• LumbaLumba Diving Manado

One of the best dive resorts in the city. 20 minutes south from Manado, outside the city, and it takes 50 minutes to get there from Manado’s Sam Ratullangi airport. The diving center is awesome, one of the best diving centers in Manado. The resort is also beautiful and tranquil, the best place to relax your mind and body. Make sure you check the price list regularly as the prices are subject to change.

• Thalassa

Another diving center in Manado that offers the best diving experience with flexibility. Enjoy the wealthy Bunaken water and make your wish there surrounded by colorful fish and stunning corals.

This center also offer a wide range of diving courses, whether you want to learn how to dive for the first time or you want to improve your skills. All the instructors here are certified and they prioritixe safety and comfort. From PADI Discover Scuba Diving (US$ 40) to specialized skills to open water (US$ 495), all are available there. If you are not a diver but still want to enjoy the beauty of Bunaken, you can join Bunaken Sightseeing Tour or explore the natural beauty of North Sulawesi.

There are also some dive trips and packages you can choose, ranging from night dive (torch is exempt) for US$ 50 to snorkel day (2 trips) including lunch, guide and use of equipment for US$ 40.

• Gecko Dive Center

This center also offers various course programs for all divers, from total beginners to professionals. Gecko dive center is managed by PADI certified instructor from Holland, Ron Sierveld. Like other dive centers, this center is equipped with a complete set of diving equipment very competitive prices. If you want to explore the wonderful Bangka Island, this center is more than just happy to arrange your memorable dive trips.

• Nusantara Diving Center and Resort

This center is very easy to access. It takes only 15 minutes from the center of the city. Keep in mind that this center is a pioneer of all dive centers in Manado (established in 1975 by the late Mr.Loky Herlambang). Under the new management, this place offers four leading producst: diving center, spa, resort and accommodation.

There are still some other dive centers in Manado, but hope this information help you arrange your wonderful dive trips in this beautiful city. Make sure that all dive centers do not only offer dive service, but also encourage you to participate in preserving and protecting the marine life underwater.

Where to dive and What to do Senggigi

When Senggigi is mentioned, what comes to your mind first would be the beautiful sandy beach that gives you the peace of mind. Well, Senggigi is one of the main tourist destinations in Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.

If you think it is hard to reach this place, actually it is not as difficult as you think. From the island’s capital Mataram, it takes only 15-20 minutes by taxi. Both airport and metered taxis are avaialble for the connection from the airport. However, airport taxi are only for passengers arriving at the airport and requiring transport to some places of interest across the island. Airport taxis cannot take you to the airport when leaving the island.

Alternatively, you can reach Senggigi by airport bus. There is a public bus from Lombok International Airport that serves passangers who travel to and from either Mataram or Senggigi. The 8 DAMRI buses are air conditioned and have a capacity of 40 passengers. Moreover, the DAMRI buses also leave the Mandalika terminal every hour and continues to the airport. The bus starts departing at 04.00, while the last bus leaves at 19.00. If you want to experience something different, you can take a small public transport called bemo. A public demo can be seen inside the parking area of Ampenan Market and it only cost you Rp. 5.000,- (excluding extra charges for the luggage you carry).

For divers, Senggigi is one of the famous paradises. If you are wondering where to find diving centers in Senggigi, here they are:

• Blue Marlin Dive

Blue Marlin has several branches in this island and considered as one of the best diving centers in Senggigi. This center is a 5 star diving operator that committs to providing the best quality of service and prioritizing the safety and the comfort for divers. Blue Marlin also offers diving course ranging from courses for beginners to diving masters. The instructors are PADI certified, so you know that you are in the right hand. There are some services this center can offer, whether you travel by yourself or in group with friends or families. If you prefer packages that include accommodation, Blue Marlin can happily do that for you.

• Blue Coral Diving

Another top diving center in Senggigi. Set up in 1993, this center is the first PADI resort member in the island of Lombok.

There are lots of activities you can do here. For those who have never dived before but want to learn how it feels to be under water, you can take the introductory dive course for Rp. 1.100.000,-. For the dive masters who want to improve their skills, there are some courses available, from open water course (Rp. 3.600.000,-) to PADI Dive master course for a professional diver (Rp. 7.700.000,-).

This center offers tour to explore the enchanting dive sites around the Gilis island and Lombok. For 2 dives, the price is Rp. 700.000,-, 3 dives is Rp. 850.000,- and 2 dives plus 1 night dive is Rp. 900.000,-. There is also snorkeling trips available which cost Rp. 150.000,-. The prices include equipments, transportation from hotel (at Senggigi area) to dive sites, dive master or guide and mineral water (lunch is excluded).

 Actually, Senggigi is not only about diving and a fascinating beach. There is also a Hindu temple overlooking Senggigi beach, named Batu Bolong (batu means rock, bolong means hole). You can watch one of the most wonderful sunsets there. Besides diving and snorkelling, kayaking, trekking and biking are some activities you can do in this amazing place.

Top Dive Centers In Candidasa

Words cannot describe how amazing Bali is, making it the most popular destination that attracts visitors around the world. No wonder Bali is even more popular than Indonesia itself among tourists. Bali is often associated with the crowded Kuta beach or Sanur. However, if you prefer a more relaxed holiday, maybe you can visit Candidasa, a small but beautiful coastal town in East Bali.

You can easily reach Candidasa from Ubud, Kuta, Sanur, Lovina and Padang Bai by the national Perama shuttle bus company. Make sure you book in advance. If you want to go directly by car from the airport, it takes about 90 minutes drive. Alternatively, you can get there by using a bemo, a public transport from Denpasar’s Batubulan terminal.

There are lots of things to do there, from day trips to Tenganan village, where its community still retains pre-Majapahit culture to diving as Candidasa is known as the point of departure for the most exciting dive spots in Bali. There are several top diving centers in Candidasa to choose from:

Besides Kuta, Sanur is one of Bali’s most desirable tourist spots. Known as a beach town, it never stops appealing visitors, mainly middle-aged and older families from Europe. It is more expensive than Kuta but more affordable than Seminyak. The best thing about Sanur is you can feel relaxed amid the abundance of accommodation and restaurant.

To get to Sanur, there are some alternatives. If you want to go there directly from Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can go by taxi and it takes 20 minutes. Besides that, you can choose shuttle bus or bemo from the north and south as well as from Tegal terminal in Denpasar.  Additionally, if you are from Nusa Lembongan, you can go by boat that arrives at the end of Jalan Hang Tuah.

For divers and snorkelers, Sanur may not be one of the best dive destinations, however some of well-established diving centers in Bali are located in Sanur. Here are some recommended diving centers in Sanur:

• Atlantis Scuba Diving

Atlantis is an established brand associated with diving. This dive center started its operation in 1996 in Sanur and now it is one of the most favorite diving centers in Sanur. In addition, Atlantis Scuba Diving is also one of the longest running dive operators in Bali which is renowned for its professionalism and warm service. The instructors-mix of Indonesians and expats-are friendly and ready to guide you dive in Bali’s top dive sites.

The facilities and equipments are world-class and there are many things to do there, from taking dive course to join dive day trips.

• Enadive Center

This is the oldest diving center in Bali (started 24 years ago) and one of the biggest diving centers in Sanur, let alone Bali. There are abundant of choices there, from dive course to day dive trips to some attractive dive areas such as Topekong, Amed, Padang Bai and so on. The price differs from one dive site to another.

Moreover, this center also offers dive packages and courseto choose from. For dive packages, you can choose whether you want to dive for 7 days or even 14 days. Morover, if you also want to visit Lombok, there is also Bali-Lombok dive package.

For non divers who want to watch beautiful fish in Bali’s waters, there is Underwater Walk program. You do not need to worry if you are too afraid of being in the water as their professional guide will accompany you so you can enjoy watching hundreds of colorful fish in a safe manner. You only need to bring your swim suit, sunscream and voucher of payment, no diving equipment needed. The rate is US$ 58 per person.

• Bali International Diving Professional (BIDP).

The older dive operator in Bali, more than 25 years of diving experience in Bali. No wonder this center is also one of Bali’s favorite dive centers. Their professional dive guides and instructors are certified and ready to cater your need, no matter whether you are a newbie. This center provides dive package for people with disability as BIDP is the only certified member of ­ the International Association for Handicapped Divers in Bali.

The prices for 1 day dive trips differs depending on which dive sites you choose. For example, 2 dives in Padang Bai costs you US$ 105 and the price for 2 dives in Tulamben is US$ 85. There is additional cost for extra dive (US$ 30).

So, come to dive in Sanur and feel the difference!

This dive center is located on the beach of Candidasa in front of hotel Puri Bagus, a hotel built in traditional Balinese style. There are several courses offered in this dive center, from beginners to advance divers. Online booking is highly recommended as you will get fewer rates. For example, if you book online for SSI or PADI Scuba Diver course, the price online is 171 Euro, less 19 Euro than the original price (190 Euro). For beginners, they can practice in a comfortable pool. Their professional instructors are ready to guide and teach you the basic skills of diving.

The policy is also applied for their dive packages. You can choose dive packages from 3 Day Package (max.2 dives) for 162 Euro (online price) to 12 Day Package (max.2 dives) for 594 euro (online price).

In addition, there are several half day and full day trips to several enchanting dive sites such as Menjangan, Nusa Penida and many more. Unfortunately, you cannot book online for these packages. But still, this newly dive center is one of the best diving centers in Candidasa.

Sub Ocean Bali

This operator is a PADI certified diving center in Candidasa, with professional team who are fluent in English, Dutch, Italian, German and Spanish. In addition, Subocean has some attractive trips to Bali, including diving, fishing, snorkeling and accommodation.

Like other PADI certified operators, Sub Ocean offers dive courses ranging from newbie to advance, with the price starting from 65 Euro (for PADI Scuba Review) to 195 Euro (PADI Nitrox Course).  Book and certification are included in all the prices.

From this center, you can start exploring some top dive sites in Bali such as Amed, Tulamben, Gili Tepekong, Nusa Penida and many more. The price depends on how many dives and is different from one to another. For extra night dive, the cost is 5 Euro per person.

Alam Asmara Dive Resort

This dive resort has a slogan: More than just a dive resort. Honeymooners will fall in love easily with this place as there is Asmara Cinta Wedding package that fits for young couple. The price is US$ 2.877 net, while the dive package is US$ 880. The deluxe bungalow is equipped with top class facilities such as spa, pool, laundry and many more.

For food and cooking lovers, this resort also offers cooking class in their Rendezvous Restaurant. You will be able to learn how to cook traditional Balinese cuisine. You can also shop the basic ingredients in traditional markets and feel the difference.

Feel the sensation of Bali’s underwater by diving in Candidasa’s top dive operators. Happy diving!

Padang Bai: The Forgotten Paradise

Padang Bai may not be as popular as the busy Kuta and Sanur as Bali’s top tourist destinations as people go to Padang Bai only to catch a port to Lombok. Therefore, not so many people know that the tiny port town also has lots to offer, especially to divers and snorkelers.

It takes 90 minutes drive from Ngurah Rai Airport to this small lovely place with a pre-paid coupon costs Rp. 365.000,-. From Kuta and Legian, it take about 1 hour to 90 minutes drive. Alternatively, you can take Perama shuttle bus from several tourist spots such as Kuta, Sanur, Ubud, Candidasa and Lovina. Make sure you book in advance. For cheaper option, bemo can be found in Batubulan terminal, Denpasar. From Lombok, it is easier to get ferry to Padang Bai as ferry is available 24 hours a day. The trip usually takes about four hourse (but can be longer in poor weather) and costs Rp. 36.000,-. Despite the affordable price, the ferry is clean and comfortable and there is a private room for tourist ( you pay for an extra Rp. 50.000,-).

There are many friendly diving centers in Padang Bai where you can start experiencing the beauty of Bali’s underwater.

• Water Worx Dive Center

This dive center was opened in 2011 and run by two expats who have been in Bali since the mid 1990s, David and Wolfgang. Both are experienced dive guides and dive instructors for various dive operators in Bali and Lombok.

If you want to explore some dive sites in Bali, you can come to the center in the morning or they will pick you from the hotel where you are staying. This center offers a pick up service from your hotel in Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Kuta, Sanur and Ubud for a small surcharge. The prices include transfer from Padang Bai or Candidasa to the dive sites such as Blue Lagoon, Gili Mimpang,Gili Tepekong, Gili Selang, Manta Point and so on. The prices that include rental equipment are slightly higher than the prices including tanks, weights and belts.

In addition, this diving center in Padang Bai also offers a wide range of dive courses, conducted by  experienced and certified instructors. For beginners, you can choose whether you can take Introductory Dive Course in Tulamben (US$ 85 for 1 dive or US$ 115 for 2 dives) or in Blue Laggon (US$75 for 1 dive or US$ 105 for 2 dives). However, the prices do not include the course manuals so you have to purchase it in order to get the certificate.

• Geko Dive Bali

This is one of the most recommended diving centers in Padang Bai, you can check on tripadvisor.com. There are various attractive packages, such as Fun Dive (for professional divers only) and PADI Diving Course. For Dun Dive package, you enjoy 3 days dive starting from Rp. 1.985.000,- to Rp. 2.655.000,-.

This center also helps you find accommodation, from budget hotel to most exclusive, there are many choices that suit your need (as Geko Dive Bali does not offer accommodation directly). Additional info, this center is committed to protecting environment and local community empowerment.

Hope this information help you enjoy your dive experience in Padang Bai. Happy diving!

Diving in Togian Island

Indonesia as a country consisted with thousands of island is known as the diving paradise by the surfers. There are hundreds of diving spots in here which attracting diver from all around the globe. In Sulawesi, you might have heard about Bunaken as the ocean paradise with many corals and beautiful underwater life to see. However, there is another place in this island that will attract you, it is the Togian Islands. This island does not seem to be as famous as Bunaken, but the coral reef will not lose to Bunaken. Beautiful marine life under the water just lying there waiting for you to discover.

Togian Islands is located on Tomini Bay in Sulawesi Island. Most travelers who come to Sulawesi and want to cross from North to South or vice versa are usually stopped at this island first. Togian Islands is a magnificent island consist of 56 small islands which formed by the volcanic activity. The archipelago of this island is covered with dense rainforest and a beautiful coral reef circling these islands. While it is not advisable to travel in the rainforest because it has a lot of mosquitos which can infect you with malaria, the coral reef is like a brand new world for you to take your adventure to.

If you wish to visit Togian Islands, then you should take a flight to Gorontalo then take a boat to Togian Islands. This boat scheduled is only twice a week with no fixed schedules so you have to check frequently. The other way to visit this island is by taking a bus from Gorontalo to Bumbulan continues with a ferry to Togian Islands. This trip is much shorter than the taking a ferry directly. From Bumbulan, it only took 5 hours while if you go straight from Gorontalo it will take around 13 hours.

Togian Islands provide you with many diving or snorkeling opportunities for you who loved the underwater life.There are also many diving centers in Togian Island for you to choose. As for the diving site you can choose to explore 3 types of coral reef which are fringe, barrier and atoll or you can all of them to complete your journey in Togian Islands. For you advanced divers, this island provides you with other fascinating spots which are Unauna an active volcano and B24 World War II bomber wreck.

There are a lot of diving centers in Togian Island that can guide you while you stay in Togian Islands. These resorts take USD and EUR as their payment currency but you can also use IDR in here. The diving price is ranging from EUR 26 or USD 60 depends on which resort and tour you choose. There is also a very cheap cottage with price starting from IDR 100.000,-. While there is no money changer or ATM in this island, please make sure you bring enough cash. Some of the dive center might accept credit card but you should check with them first.

Overall this complex of islands is really good and very calm, so you do not have to worry about strong current while you are diving or snorkeling. Do not stop at Bunaken only, Togian Islands also has its own unique marine life for you to enjoy. Happy diving!!

Diving in Donggala

Sulawesi is truly the paradise for divers. Many diving site available in this island and some of those sites are available for all divers. You might never hear the word Donggala, or does not even know where Donggala is. For a heads up, Donggala is located in Sulawesi Island and it is a pretty secluded place. This site is not like any other diving site in the big city in Sulawesi, there is only 1 diving resort in here. However, In terms of easy to reach, Donggalamight be the winner. If you do not have much time for diving and looking for a site that is does not take much time to travel to, thenDonggala is your answer.

Donggala is located in Central Sulawesi, near Palu. Donggala itself is a small village which you can reach with only 45 minutes to 1 hour drive from the airport in Palu. As mention above, there is only 1 diving center in Donggala, more precisely at TanjungKarang a small beach located in north of Donggala. Based on the weather map, Donggala is the driest place in Indonesia, which is a good for you divers.

Since there is only 1 diving center in Donggala, you can only come to this place, The Prince John Diving Resort, if you wish to have guidance about the diving spot. The Prince John Diving Resort has 15 bungalows and each of the bungalows has a direct access to the beach. If you are not on your diving activities, enjoying the sea view from your bungalow would be a good choice either. This resort gives you full services from accommodation, diving or snorkeling and also meals. The price for a single dive in here is starting from EUR 29. This resort also provide discount if you come in group. If you wish to have a diving package there is also a package for min 4 person with price IDR 3.500.000,- per person.

There are several dive sites in this beach, the first one would be the Gili Raja wrecks. In this site, you can see a huge ship which sinks in 1958. Not everyone is allowed to enter this site because not only the depth (it is 50 meters under water), but also because this ship is preserved. Diving log or certificate will not do here; you have to convince the diving instructor that you are capable to dive in this site.

For you beginner divers, you might want to visit House Reef site. In this site, there are a lot of beautiful corals and hundreds of fishes playing in the coral. This place also good for a night dive and moreover it is easy to reach.

Last but not least are the Batu Suya, Enu I and Enu II. These sites is located in north of Donggala and it took around 30 minute to 40 minute by boat. The depth is ranging in here so it is good for you who are beginner or already a professional diver. You can see beautiful coral and mackerel fish in here and a beautiful longnose hawk fishes.

That is all about Donggala. Overall, it is the best choice if you look for a calm dive sites with less people, yet the view is also beautiful. The resort also gives good services. Even though it is only one resort, but after you enter you might not want to choose other resort if available.

Where to dive in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat (Four Kings) cannot be described by thousands words. It is more than just a beautiful dive spot as it is also home to the largest variety of marine species on this planet. Be ready to get stunned by what Raja Ampat has to offer. Imagine that this place has 600 hard coral species, 1.511 species of reef fish, 27 species of endemic fish, 57 species of Mantis shrimp, 13 species of marine mammals, 5 species of rare turtles. In addition, 75% of world’s hard coral are found in this wonderful paradise. No wonder people say that in one dive, they can see around 400 coral reefs. Therefore, Raja Ampat is also protected by the Indonesian law.

To be able to watch this amazing marine phenomenon, you can fly to Sorong from Jakarta, Bali or Surabaya with a connecting flight to Makassar or Manado. For those who do not live in Asia, transiting in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Hong Kong is probably the best choice as they have more up to date facilities. From Sorong, there are two choices of boats: speed boat carrying 15 passengers (40 minutes-1 hour trip) costs Rp. 2.000.000,- and long boat (about 2-3 hours trip) carrying 10 passengers for the cost of Rp. 1.200.000,-. All the prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Most divers join dive tour and live in a dive resort during their stay in this archipelago. Here are some diving centers in Raja Ampat which you can choose:

• Raja4Divers

Located in a remote but beautiful Pef Island, this dive operator is one of the best diving centers in Raja Ampat. Run by a couple from Germany, this dive center also relies on their qualified and friendly Papuan dive guides. The facilities there are top class and safety is guaranteed there. Each dive boat is already equipped with standard safety equipment, from first aid kits to 2-way radio.

There are various packages from diving to snorkeling. Even you can take your kids join with you as there are also packages for kids (age 11-17), starting from Euro 1.500. This center offers some discounts for those who dive in group. Let us say if your group consists of 8 divers or non divers, you only pay for 7 people and 1 person is free of charge. There is also 5% discount for honeymooners.

• Raja Ampat Dive Resort

There are two packages, for divers (the prices start from Euro 655 to Euro 1.750) and non divers (the prices start from Euro 280 to Euro 750). This resort also actively promotes environmental protection and helps visitors participate in preserving this wonderful fish capital.

This resort as well as dive center is recommended by the leading travel site, tripadvisor.com. Just read the testimonials, you will know why this center is one of the best diving centers in Raja Ampat.

• Misool Eco Resort

Misool Eco Resort is an eco friendly resort with a dive center and a conservation center. There are several attractive packages including accommodation and you can choose whether you want to stay at water cottage or deluxe villa.

Missol Eco Resort also has several reef conservation projects that build awareness among local society on the importance of environmental protection. In addition, they also show support of early education by building a kindergarten in late 2011.

No matter who you are, divers or non divers, Raja Ampat has lots to make you impressed. This paradise really makes people keep coming back again and again, so be ready to come back again.

What You Need to Know About Nunukan

Nunukan sounds unfamiliar to most tourists, even to Indonesians. Most Indonesians know Nunukan as a small town on the island with the same name that borders the neighbouring Malaysia. However, you will be amazed by how fascinating this place is and how the small town in East Kalimantan has lots to offer. For divers, Nunukan may not be as popular as Raja Ampat or Gili Trawangan, however, the dive sites there are impressive, surrounded with all kinds of fish and beautiful coral reefs.

If you plan to visit Nunukan, make sure that you get the visa in advance as Nunukan is not included as a visa-on-arrival entry point. You can reach Nunukan by boat operated by government-owned PELNI from several cities in Nusa Tenggara, Bali, Sulawesi, Java and Kalimantan. From Malaysia, you can get there from Tawau, ­Sabah, Malaysia.

There is a main diving center in Nunukan, called Nabucco’s Nunukan Island Resort. This center offers day-trip tours to some great dive sites at Sangalaki and Kakaban Island. Besides those dive sites, d

o not forget to visit South Maratua and “Big fish Country” one of the most famous dive sites there. This diving center in Nunukan is equipped with full set of diving equipment such as regulator, BCD, emergency oxygen and so on. This center also offers diving course, ranging from Refresher course (45 Euro, including one dive and theory lesson) to SSI Speciality Course (each 160 Euro, certification included). As mentioned before, there are some half-day trips to Nunukan’s wonderful dive sites such as  Sangalaki and Big Fish Country. Halfday trips to Maratua cost 15 Euro, Big Fish Country 20 Euro and if you prefer full day trips, you can choose daytrips to Sangalaki and Kakaban dive spots for 40 Euro. There is additional cost to the house reef.

You can reach the dive spots near the house reef by traditional boat, or Tuk Tuk and it only takes about  1-10 minutes from the center. A modern boat is used for the day trips to guarantee divers’ safety. The house reef is surrounded by a sloping wall (about 40 meters deep) and you will be impressed by what you can see there. Just mention bumphead parrot fish, groupers, eagle rays, leopard sharks as well as nurse sharks. Besides that, other kinds of magnificent undersea creatures are available under the wonderful water of Nunukan, from nudibranchs to seahorses.

The resort is at the southern end of the Maratua atoll, on the outer reef. The bungalows are built carefully into the nature. The price starts from 116 Euro for Single room (half board that includes breakfast with fresh juice, coffee, tea and 5 course dinner) to triple half board that cost you 74 Euro (full board for triple room is 85 Euro). Lunch is included in full board. There are also some arranged packages that include accommodation you can choose.

This diving center in Nunukan really spoils you as divers. However, there are still some attractions you can see while you are there, such as Binusan waterfall, Kayan Mentarang National Park and wonderful Batu Lamampu and Sedadap beaches.

Dive and Swim with Sharks in Menjangan Besar Island

The Karimunjawa archipelago could be considered as Java’s hidden paradise. White sandy beaches and crystal water is always a welcome sights for those who visits Karimunjawa. It is also home of the Karimunjawa National Park, which consisted of twenty-two islands around it that have been declared as a marine reserve. These islands have their own beauty and uniqueness – each one has their own charm that we may not be able to experience on other islands. One such island that offers some great experiences and worth to visit is Menjangan Besar Island. Read More