DIVE into a depth of underwater world filled with wonderful shipwrecks posing native home to colorful fish or unexplored caverns will be definitely absorbing. When wishing to explore the undersea beauty through diving in Bali or the Island of the Gods, here are some spots to be considered.
Menjangan Island (Buleleng)
Menjangan Island, located in the West Bali National Park (TNBB), at the westernmost tip of the Bali Island, is almost untouched due to its remote location. Thanks to conservation efforts in the area since the establishment of the TNBB in 1917, the corals and their ecosystems thrive and offer fantastic underwater panoramas. This is the reason why the location is an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling tours. Visitors are very happy to dive in the waters of Menjangan Island because it is famous for its walls and visibility. Local dive service providers are available at Pemuteran Village near Menjangan Island,
Amed (Karangasem)
This fishing village with black sandy beach in Eastern Bali can be the perfect diving destination for SCUBA divers seeking an authentic Bali’s experience. You will be transferred from the beach to the dive site by a traditional jukung boat with a travel time of 10-15 minutes. Small traditional wooden double-sail boat with triangular sail (now equipped with outboard engine) will take you there.
The USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben (Karangasem)
The USAT Liberty shipwreck is one of the most famous dive sites in the world. The wreck is only located 25 meters from the beach. The highest point of the wreck is just 5 meters deep while the deepest point is 30 m below the surface.
For diving in Bali Indonesia, it is considered to be a perfect location for all levels of SCUBA divers. In the World War II, an American ship was reported to have been torpedoed between Bali and Lombok by a Japanese submarine in 1942.
Later on, the wreck was towed to Tulamben Beach for rescue operations. Apparently, the wheels of history did not stop and keep rolling. In 1963, Mount Agung, which is still a series of active volcanoes, erupted. As a result, the incident devastated most of east coast of Bali.
Manta Point Nusa Penida (Klungkung)
Probably, many divers dream of spending time underwater with these friendly giants. With an average length of 3 meters to 5 meters from end to end, meeting a manta ray is not a frightening experience but it is quite amazing.
Located at Manta Point, at the southern tip of Nusa Penida, several manta rays like to join their group that stroll beautifully like dancers. Diving in the depth of about 10-12 meters is only recommended only for scuba divers considering the strong currents in this area. If getting lucky enough, divers will encounters these manta rays, but avoid touching them. When wishing to approach them, do it slowly.
Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida (Klungkung)
This area is famous for its giant sunfish of Indonesia and this fish teases many scuba divers to come to Bali. Their size can exceed 3 meters and weigh more than 1,000 kg. This fish is shy. Spots with the possibility to meet this unique and attractive fish are Crystal Bay near Penida Village, the northeast coast of Nusa Penida and the Ceningan Strait. These spots are only recommended for experienced divers because the observation site is at a depth of about 18-30 meters.