It’s no secret that Indonesia’s territory is dominated by waters connecting the thousands of islands. Indonesia’s marine wealth has also been famous in various parts of the world, so no wonder Indonesia is often cited as the diver’s paradise. There are thousands of diving spots in Indonesia, and you just have to adjust your abilities budget.
Before diving deeper (pun intended), let us introduce you to the 5 world-famous diving spots in Indonesia.
Five world-famous diving spots in Indonesia
1. Weh Island and Rubiah Island, beautiful diving spots in Indonesia’s westernmost area
If the eastern part of Indonesia doesn’t satisfy you enough, why not try the westernmost part? Who would have thought that this part of the country also holds immeasurable underwater beauty? Dive deep into the charm of the western tip of Indonesia around Weh Island and Rubiah Island, Sabang, Aceh. The waters tend to be calm and crystal clear. There are at least 13 diving spots around Weh island, most of which feature schooling and pelagic fishes. Some of the most recommended diving points are Batee Tokong, Pantee Peunateung, Arus Balee, Batee Gla, and the Sophie Rickmers shipwreck at 50 meters deep.
2. Thousand Islands, Jakarta’s favorite diving spots
This group of islands is only one boat ride away from Jakarta. Therefore, these islands are perfect as a weekend getaway destination when you’re fed up with the bustle of the metropolis life. Several diving points can accommodate any level of expertise. The Jakartans also often visit this place to obtain a diving certificate.
You don’t have to worry about preparing a dive itinerary because many diving centers offer dive packages and overnight stays, even with exclusive boat ride facilities from mainland Jakarta. Open water training packages are available for 4-5 days of training for those who want to get a diving license. If you have familiarised yourself with the underwater world, the shipwreck tour is worth it.
3. Derawan, Kalimantan’s unique dive spot famous for the jellyfish
Soar to the sky and sink to the sea! Derawan tempts everyone with its fascinating panorama, both above and below. The stingless jellyfish is one of the prima donnas and why many people come here. Greet them at the lake on Kakaban Island.
There are at least 4 main islands that many tourists visit, including Derawan, Kakaban, Sangalaki, and Maratua. The waters around Derawan Island are still very pristine. You can snorkel without diving too deep to greet the cute and vibrant fish. You can also say hello to whale sharks if you’re fortunate.
Sangalaki itself is known as the perfect place to meet Manta Rays and Turtles, while Maratua is a favorite place for divers to encounter sharks and large schools of barracuda fish.
4. Complete diving package in North Sulawesi (Bunaken, Likupang, Lembeh)
North Sulawesi has been known as one of the most prominent destinations for divers for decades, particularly in the Bunaken Marine National Park. Besides Bunaken, you can also explore the waters around SIladen and Manado Tua, which offer immeasurable beauty in their collection of coral reefs. Its coral reefs are said to be one of the most beautiful in the world.
Another option is to drive an hour east to enjoy the beautiful waters of Bitung in the Lembeh Strait. This dive site is the muck divers' favorite destination. Divers will meet many critters hiding in the mud on the seabed. This place is undoubtedly a paradise for macro photography enthusiasts.
Still hungry for more? This time, direct your map north of Manado and head to Likupang. This Super Priority Destination also has an exotic underwater charm.
5. Underwater beauty all across Bali
Not only culturally rich, but Bali also has some of the best underwater beauty. Diving points are scattered all over the island; Menjangan on the west side, Pemuteran on the north side, Tulamben on the east side, and Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida on the south side.
Complete, isn't it?
Although diving in the Bali waters is doable almost all the time, many consider July-October the best time, especially if you are diving in southern waters. It is during this time that you may have the opportunity to meet the unique Mola Fish or Sun Fish.
Don’t miss out on the chance to dive around the USS Liberty Shipwreck, a shipwreck home to various marine life in Tulamben. There is also a collection of underwater statues decorated with colorful fish in these waters.
So, prepare your gears and get ready to dive! Even though everything has been prepared bu the dive center, it doesn’t mean that your land transportation arrangement need not be sorted out. A ride from and to the place where you stay to the diving spot and the accommodation needs to be planned ahead, especially if you have extra time at your expense.
TRAC car rental service complete with a driver or TRAC’s airport shuttle can be the perfect option for you who seek convenience and comfort. Download and install the TRACtoGo application from Google Playstore or Apple Appstore to find your desired service. TRAC also offers a bus rental service of various sizes that can accommodate your big group travel. What an exciting trip it would be!
Nearing the end of the pandemic, TRAC still consistently implements a health and safety protocol known as the SMART Protocol. To find out more about TRAC’s car rental service, contact our Customer Assistance Center at 1500009 or email rco.nasional@trac.astra.co.id.
