Scuba diving in Bunaken, Indonesia
Bunaken is a must for any avid diver. This small island is located in the north of Sulawesi and is part of the Bunaken National Marine Park. It is well-known for its pristine waters, colorful coral reefs, and abundance of marine life. Here is some information on the best scuba diving spots for experienced divers and beginners, as well as the marinelife, dive conditions, and cost.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Lekuan Wall: This wall is over 100 meters deep and is home to various types of sharks, rays, and fish. It also features colorful soft corals and sponges.
- Sachiko's Point: This site is known for its strong currents and offers divers the chance to see large schools of fish, reef sharks, and turtles.
- The Canyon: This site features a steep drop-off with a depth of up to 600 meters. It is home to various types of fish and offers the chance to spot larger marine life such as barracudas, manta rays, and even hammerhead sharks.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Bunaken Timur: This shallow site offers a variety of colorful corals and smaller fish, making it perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed dive.
- Mandolin: This site features a gentle slope with depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. It is home to various types of fish and sea turtles.
Marinelife:
Bunaken is known for its diverse marine life, including over 70 species of corals and more than 3000 species of fish. Divers can expect to see various types of sharks, rays, sea turtles, and schools of fish such as barracudas and jacks.
Dive Conditions:
The water temperature in Bunaken typically ranges from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius, with visibility ranging from 15 to 30 meters. Currents can be strong at some sites, so it is important to check with local dive operators and plan accordingly.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Bunaken varies depending on the dive operator and package chosen. Typically, a single dive can range from $30 to $50 USD, while full-day packages including multiple dives and equipment rental can range from $80 to $120 USD.
