About Bunaken Dive Package

In the aquatic embrace of Bunaken National Marine Park, divers are enveloped by the vivid blues of the Celebes Sea. Here, the world slows down, revealing a mesmerizing marine ballet just beneath the surface.

Our Founder and Mission

Founded in 2010 by marine biologist Dr. Iman Santoso, Bunaken Dive Package aims to provide unparalleled diving experiences while promoting marine conservation. Dr. Santoso, with over 20 years of experience in marine research, saw an opportunity to share the wonders of Bunaken’s waters with the world. His mission is clear: to offer diving adventures that foster appreciation and respect for the ocean’s delicate ecosystems.

With a Ph.D. in Marine Biology from the University of Indonesia, Dr. Santoso has dedicated his career to the preservation of marine environments. His work is recognized by the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, underscoring his commitment to sustainable tourism practices. By choosing Bunaken Dive Package, divers contribute to ongoing conservation efforts in the region.

Meet Our Team

Our team of certified dive instructors and marine experts is led by Anna Wijaya, a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer with over 1,500 logged dives. Anna’s leadership ensures that every dive is both safe and exhilarating. The team also includes local guides like Budi Suryadi, who has an intimate knowledge of Bunaken’s 20 dive sites, including the renowned Lekuan Wall.

Each team member is certified by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and holds an Emergency First Response certification, guaranteeing safety and professionalism. The team’s expertise is enhanced by regular participation in marine ecology workshops, keeping them abreast of the latest in marine conservation.

Dive Packages and Pricing

Bunaken Dive Package offers various options tailored to divers of all levels. Our day packages start at $150 USD, including two guided dives and equipment rental. For a more immersive experience, our resort packages offer accommodations at our partner eco-resorts, starting at $850 USD for a 5-day, 4-night stay.

All packages include boat transfers, professional dive guides, and access to over 20 dive sites, such as the popular Mandolin Point. The pricing reflects our commitment to quality service and sustainable tourism, ensuring that every dollar supports local communities and conservation initiatives.

Exploring Bunaken’s Dive Sites

Bunaken National Marine Park, established in 1991 and covering 890 square kilometers, is a diver’s sanctuary known for its dramatic wall dives and rich biodiversity. The park is home to approximately 390 species of coral and a multitude of fish species, as documented by UNESCO.

Some of the must-visit sites include the vertical coral walls of Sachiko’s Point and the vibrant marine life at Fukui Point. Each location offers a unique glimpse into the underwater world, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. Divers frequently encounter turtles, reef sharks, and the elusive dugong, making each dive an adventure.

For those seeking a deeper dive into the park’s offerings, Cape Kri and Blue Magic are two sites not to be missed. Cape Kri is renowned for its record of the highest number of reef fish species counted in a single dive, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness marine diversity. Blue Magic is famous for its manta ray sightings, offering divers the chance to see these majestic creatures up close.

Best Season to Dive

The optimal diving season in Bunaken extends from March to October, when the waters are calmest, and visibility is at its peak. During these months, water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C, ideal for exploring the depths without a wetsuit.

The park’s location near the equator ensures a stable climate, but divers should be mindful of occasional rain showers from November to February. Despite the rains, Bunaken’s marine life remains vibrant throughout the year, offering rewarding dives even during the off-season.

Marine Life and Biodiversity

Bunaken National Marine Park is a biodiversity hotspot, offering divers a chance to witness a wide range of marine life. The park’s coral reefs support an incredible variety of species, including over 390 types of corals and nearly 3,000 species of fish. Among the most notable inhabitants are the Napoleon wrasse, barracudas, and the occasional blacktip reef shark.

The park also serves as a crucial habitat for several endangered species. The green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle are frequent visitors to the area, using the park’s beaches as nesting grounds. Additionally, the park’s seagrass beds support a population of dugongs, adding to the area’s ecological significance.

Comparing Dive Sites: Cape Kri vs. Manta Sandy

For divers looking to maximize their experience at Bunaken National Marine Park, a comparison between two of the park’s most renowned sites, Cape Kri and Manta Sandy, is essential.

• Cape Kri: Known for its record-breaking reef fish count, Cape Kri offers a vibrant range of marine life. Divers can expect strong currents, which bring in large schools of fish, including jacks, snappers, and barracudas. The site is suitable for advanced divers due to its depth and current conditions.
• Manta Sandy: As the name suggests, this site is a cleaning station for manta rays, making it a prime location for spotting these gentle giants. Manta Sandy offers a more relaxed dive experience, with moderate currents and shallower depths, making it suitable for divers of all levels.

Choosing between these sites depends on the diver’s experience level and the type of marine life they wish to encounter. Cape Kri provides a thrilling experience with its diverse fish population, while Manta Sandy offers the chance to observe manta rays in their natural habitat.

Commitment to Conservation

At Bunaken Dive Package, we are committed to preserving the marine environment for future generations. Our efforts align with the guidelines set by the World Wildlife Fund and the Indonesian government, focusing on coral restoration and waste management initiatives.

In collaboration with local NGOs, we organize regular beach clean-ups and educational workshops to raise awareness about marine conservation. Divers have the opportunity to participate in these activities, contributing to the park’s sustainability while enjoying their underwater adventures.

One of our ongoing projects is the coral nursery program, where divers can assist in planting and monitoring new coral fragments. This initiative has resulted in a 20% increase in coral cover over the past five years, significantly contributing to the park’s ecological health.

Planning Your Dive Trip

Planning a dive trip to Bunaken National Marine Park is straightforward with Bunaken Dive Package. Our trips are designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced divers, offering a range of options to suit different preferences.

Our liveaboard trips provide an immersive experience, with itineraries ranging from 7 to 10 days. These trips include accommodation on our comfortable vessels, equipped with air-conditioned cabins and spacious decks for relaxation. The liveaboard experience allows divers to explore remote sites, such as Manta Point and Tanjung Pisok, which are less frequented by day-trippers.

For those preferring land-based options, our partner eco-resorts offer a serene retreat after a day of diving. With direct access to the park’s dive sites, guests can enjoy seamless diving experiences paired with the comforts of sustainable accommodation.

Experience the wonders of Bunaken National Marine Park with us. Visit our Bunaken Dive Package homepage for more information on our packages and to plan your next diving adventure. For a deeper dive into our offerings and pricing details, check out our Bunaken Dive Package page.

For more information about Indonesia’s rich marine biodiversity, visit Indonesia Travel.