Diving in Manado: a great destination for divers

Manado is a fantastic diving destination that should not be missed if you are a diving enthusiast. North Sulawesi in Indonesia is the gateway to one of the most diverse and rich marine ecosystems in the world. There are colorful coral reefs and fascinating micro life.

Bunaken National Maritime Park

Bunaken National Maritime Park is one of the most popular dive sites in Manado. Home to over 70% of all known fish species in the Indo-Western Pacific, this site has a spectacular vertical coral wall that can reach depths of up to 600 metres. Bunaken is an excellent place for a breathtaking diving experience that will appeal to every diver.

Lembeh Strait

Lembeh Strait is another diving destination not to be missed. It's not the diving destination you expect, with crystal clear waters, majestic fish and vast coral gardens. This place is unique and has its own charm. You swim above a seabed of black volcanic sand. This is the habitat of strange and sometimes alien sea creatures. These special creatures are affectionately referred to as 'critters'.

This underwater world is enchanting, and the emphasis here is truly enchanting. Life flourishes among the rubbish that flows straight from Bitung harbor. But don't be fooled by the term 'junk', because it is in this apparent chaos that you can discover some of the most extraordinary sea creatures.

In the Lembeh Strait you will find rare Seahorses, Frogfishes, Octopuses and Ghost Pipefishes, alongside an array of unique crab species and much more. Every visit to Lembeh Strait is a new adventure, a chance to discover the wonders of this exceptional underwater world.

Molas wreck

For the wreck divers among us, there it is Molas wreck. This 130 meter long Dutch freighter that sank during World War II rests at a depth of 30-40 meters.

Where do you stay when you go diving in Manado?

There are also several renowned diving schools and resorts in Manado. Are two standouts thalassa 5 Star PADI Dive Resorts and LumbaLumba Diving. Both participate in Duikvaker. Visit the stands and

thalassa Dive Resorts, led by Simone Gerritsen, has been present at the fair since the creation of Duikvaker. Thalassa is located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The focus is on sustainable diving and the emphasis is on personalized guest service, community involvement and education. Owner Simone Gerritsen started diving in 1978 and opened the Thalassa Dive Shop in Amsterdam in 1987. Thalassa has everything for beginners and advanced divers, and you can also become a PADI Pro.

It Lumbalumba Resort in Manado is a small but attractive property with fantastic ocean views surrounded by a large tropical botanical garden. The resort features a beautiful pool and beach area. There is an extensive range of Asian dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. It LumbaLumba resort aims to provide a pleasant and personalized experience for its guests with activities such as diving, snorkeling and tours.

Manado is a great place for divers, with good food, nice people and of course, great diving. Manado is an excellent place for anyone who enjoys scuba diving, macro photography, wreck diving or simply exploring the underwater world.