Manado

Manado is among the highlights of diving in Indonesia and has earned plaudits throughout the world. When you’re scuba diving in Bunaken National Marine Park you’ll witness some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world, with outstanding fish variety and world-class wall diving. The clear, warm waters contain astonishingly high numbers of species, whether corals, sponges or fish.

Airport: Manado (MDC)

Trip Duration: 4/5/6 Days Trip

Dive Resort

Beginer to Advanced Diver

Destination Info 

Manado is the capital of North Sulawesi and with its approximately 450.000 citizens more than a medium sized city. Bordering one side, the Celebes Sea with Bunaken marine park and on the other side beautiful green grown highlands and towering volcano’s, Manado offers one of the most prosperous and spectacularly scenic area’s in Indonesia.

Manado is among the highlights of diving in Indonesia and has earned plaudits throughout the world. When you’re scuba diving in Bunaken National Marine Park you’ll witness some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world, with outstanding fish variety and world-class wall diving. The clear, warm waters contain astonishingly high numbers of species, whether corals, sponges or fish.

What to see

Oceanic currents sweep past Bunaken Island bringing a steady supply of nutrients. It’s a sure certainty that where there is plenty of food in the sea, there will be an abundance of marine life, and you can be here to witness this rich harvest too. From the smallest commensal shrimp to black tip reef sharks and eagle rays, there is something for everyone in this very special dive destination.

Sample Itinerary

Arrival to Manado Airport and transfer to Dive Resort. Depending on arrival time, check dive.

Your dive boat will usually go out for 1 or 2 dives at a time. You will return to the resort for breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner Generally, you will be in a small boat with 1 guide and 1-3 other divers. 

Dive Site Information
  • Best time to visitMay till October.
  • Water Temp: 26-30°C,
  • Air Temp: 25-30°C
  • Visibility: 20-50 meters
  • Current: mild to strong
Getting There
Health & Insurance
  • Dive Insurance compulsory for this trip. We also strongly advise you get adequate travel insurance. Please check your travel insurance policy for your diving needs. If not covered then we recommend DiveAssure for single trip policy cover.
  • Dive Computer compulsoryon this trip.
  • Follow Safe Diving Practices at ALL times plus No Deco Diving and No Solo Diving.
  • Exposure Suit recommended to bring your own 5mm long semi-dry, rash-vest & hood for Southern Komodo cooler waters (between 22-26°C)

Our Recommendation

The Bunaken Marine Park consists of five islands: Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage, Nain and Bunaken itself. While a large volcano dominates Manado Tua’s skyline, the other four are mostly flat and surrounded by large fringing reef plates. Mangrove forests protect many of the islands’ sandy beaches, which means there’s little erosion and a tranquil atmosphere even on wavy days. 

We recommend you to combine your trip with the nearby Lembeh Straits or Raja Ampat, which is a short flight away.