Scuba diving in Mentawai, Indonesia
Mentawai offers an incredible opportunity to explore the rich marine life and coral reefs of this region. Mentawai is located off the west coast of Sumatra and consists of four main islands: Siberut, Sipora, North Pagai, and South Pagai. The area is known for its clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes.
Best scuba diving spots for experienced divers:
- Macaroni's: This dive site is located near the island of North Pagai and is known for its strong currents and diverse marine life. Divers can expect to see schools of fish, sharks, rays, and sometimes even whales.
- Bat Cave: This dive site is located near the island of Sipora and is known for its unique underwater cave system. Divers can explore the cave and observe the diverse marine life that inhabits it, including schools of fish, sea snakes, and even turtles.
Best scuba diving spots for beginners:
- Tugboat: This dive site is located near the island of Sipora and is known for its calm waters and shallow depths, making it an ideal spot for beginners. Divers can observe a variety of colorful fish, such as clownfish and angelfish, as well as soft and hard corals.
- Lances Right: This dive site is located near the island of South Pagai and is known for its gentle currents and diverse marine life. Divers can observe schools of fish, turtles, and even reef sharks.
Marine life:
Mentawai is home to a diverse range of marine life, including over 500 species of coral and 600 species of fish. Divers can expect to see schools of colorful fish, such as angelfish and clownfish, as well as larger species like reef sharks and rays. Other notable species include turtles, sea snakes, and even whales.
Dive conditions:
The waters around Mentawai are warm and clear, with an average temperature of around 27-30°C (81-86°F). Visibility can vary depending on the location and time of year, but is generally good, with some dive sites offering visibility of up to 30 meters (100 feet). Currents can be strong at some dive sites, making them more suitable for experienced divers.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Mentawai can vary depending on the dive operator and the type of dive. As a rough estimate, a single dive can cost around $30-50 USD, while a multi-dive package can cost anywhere from $200-500 USD. It's important to do research and compare prices before choosing a dive operator.
