Discover the Underwater World of Tulamben with 5 Fun Dives
If you’re a certified diver heading to Bali, Tulamben is often at the top of the list for good reason. This tour offers five expertly guided dives at some of Bali’s most popular and photogenic sites—perfect for those wanting to explore shipwrecks, colorful coral gardens, or macro-rich environments. For $159.88 per person, over the course of two days, you’ll visit the legendary USAT Liberty wreck, the Boga wreck, the Coral Garden, and the dramatic Drop-off formed by lava, among others.
What makes this experience truly appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides like Gita, Kadek, Yoko, and others make all the difference, helping you find marine life, take memorable photos, and stay safe in Bali’s often lively waters. Second, the included equipment and facilities—from wetsuits to lockers—mean you won’t be scrambling for gear or comfort, allowing you to focus on enjoying each underwater moment.
One possible consideration? You need to complete all five dives within a week and be a certified diver (with recent experience). If you’re out of practice, a refresher session is available, which ensures everyone gets the most from their time underwater.
This tour suits certified divers seeking to maximize their Bali experience, especially if wrecks and macro photography excite you. The flexible scheduling and small group size (max 10 travelers) also make it a good fit for those wanting personalized attention amid a friendly, professional atmosphere.
Key Points
- Comprehensive dive sites including wrecks, coral gardens, and lava formations
- Professional guides who share secrets to spotting marine life
- All necessary equipment included, plus facilities at the dive center
- Flexible schedule within a week, with transport included
- High reviewer ratings for professionalism, safety, and experience quality
- Suitable for certified divers with recent experience or a refresher
Planning more time in Tulamben? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring Bali’s Top Underwater Spots
Bali’s diving scene isn’t limited to postcard-perfect beaches. Tulamben stands out because of its world-famous shipwrecks and vibrant macro environments. When you book this tour, you’re signing up for five dives at some of Bali’s most iconic sites, guided by passionate and experienced instructors.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
Each stop is carefully selected for its uniqueness, offering a mix of wreck exploration, coral gardens, and lava formations. Your first dives likely focus on the USAT Liberty, a wreck with a hauntingly beautiful coral coating. As one reviewer raved, “Turtles are everywhere!” and the wreck itself is a famous historical site teeming with marine life.
Next, you might explore the Boga wreck, smaller but just as interesting. The Coral Garden offers a different vibe—an explosion of colors, with coral structures perfect for macro subjects like nudibranchs or tiny crustaceans. The Drop-off, formed by lava, is dramatic and a favorite for those who love currents and wall diving.
You’ll also have opportunities to visit less crowded sites and discover niches for macro photography. Multiple reviews mention guides like Gita, Yoko, and Kadek expertly finding tiny creatures, making every dive an adventure for macro lovers.
What to Expect Underwater
Expect clear waters, though visibility can vary depending on conditions, as a reviewer pointed out, “Difficult to enter at Liberty with poor visibility,” but generally, the sites offer good conditions. The depths suit experienced divers, and the currents can be moderate, so having recent experience is important.
Guides are attentive and knowledgeable, sharing tips on marine life, camera settings, or navigating currents. Many reviews highlight how guides like Gita, Yoko, and Komang actively help with macro spotting and photo-taking, making each dive more rewarding.
The Marine Life and Wrecks
The waters around Tulamben are alive and diverse. Expect to see turtles, colorful reef fish, and barracudas, alongside the wrecks covered in coral and sponges. The USAT Liberty, lying just off the coast, is an iconic site, and many divers comment on how it’s “hauntingly beautiful” with abundant marine life.
The Boga wreck and the lava formations add variety, with some spots ideal for macro photographers. Reviews mention “micro creatures” and “tiny nudibranchs,” indicating the macro opportunities are plentiful here.
The Facilities and Logistics
The diving equipment—including masks, fins, wetsuits, and buoyancy control devices—is provided, which reduces hassle and costs. You’ll also have access to locker, shower, Wi-Fi, and a restaurant at the dive center for when you’re out of the water.
Transport is included from your accommodation in Tulamben or nearby areas, making logistics smoother, especially after a long day on the reef. The group size is limited to 10, fostering a more personalized experience.
The Cost and Value
At roughly $159.88 for five dives, this tour offers good value considering the quality of guides, equipment, and access to top dive sites. Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendly atmosphere, which adds to the overall feeling of safety and fun.
Reviews: Authentic Feedback
Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—both for their expertise and their friendly attitude. One reviewer said, “Gita and Kadek are like genies—they find micro creatures for you,” emphasizing how guides go above and beyond to enhance the experience.
Others highlight the spectacular wrecks and coral environments, with comments like, “Great dive sites especially if you like wreck diving,” and “The USS Liberty wreck was quite a famous historical site in itself.”
A recurring theme is the smooth organization and the friendly staff, with many saying they’d return. One reviewer even called this “the best dive shop I’ve ever experienced.”
Considerations and Tips
Since all dives must be completed within seven days, plan your schedule accordingly. If your last dive was over a year ago, a refresher session can be arranged. Also, be prepared for variable visibility and currents, especially at the wreck sites.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is primarily designed for certified divers with recent experience, looking to explore Bali’s best underwater sites. If wrecks, macro photography, and vibrant coral reefs appeal to you, this tour will hit the mark. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate friendly, knowledgeable guides and value professional equipment and safety standards.
It’s worth noting that if you’re not certified or haven’t been diving recently, this tour wouldn’t suit you unless you opt for a refresher. For beginners, other tours in the area might be more appropriate.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?
For certified divers wanting to explore Bali’s top underwater attractions, this five fun dives package offers excellent value and top-tier guides. The inclusion of all equipment, transport, and facilities makes for a hassle-free experience that lets you focus on the underwater marvels. You’ll see wrecks that are famous worldwide, vibrant coral gardens, and possibly even macro subjects you never knew existed.
Travelers who appreciate professional service, a personalized touch, and the chance to see marine life in its natural environment will find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their Bali underwater experience without breaking the bank.
The only real limitation is the requirement to complete dives within a week and to be current with your certification. But if those boxes are checked, you’ll find yourself in capable hands, with plenty of opportunities to capture unforgettable memories beneath the waves.
FAQ
Do I need to be a certified diver? Yes, this tour is for certified divers only, with recent experience in the past year. If you haven’t dived recently, a refresh session can be arranged.
Can I do all five dives in one day? The dives are scheduled over two days, giving you time to rest and enjoy each site without feeling rushed.
Are equipment and facilities included? Yes, all diving gear such as mask, snorkel, fins, buoyancy control jacket, regulators, wetsuits, and weight belts are included, along with access to lockers, showers, and Wi-Fi.
Is transportation provided? Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included if you’re staying within Amed/Tulamben surroundings, simplifying logistics.
Can I take photos or videos during the dives? While digital souvenirs are available for purchase, the tour does not include free photos or videos, but guides often help you capture great shots.
How long do I have to complete all dives? You need to finish your five dives within seven days from the start date.
What if I need a refresher course? If your last dive was over a year ago, you can opt for a refresher session with a friendly instructor to refresh your skills.
What is the maximum group size? The tour limits groups to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
What are the main sites visited? The primary sites include the USAT Liberty wreck, Boga wreck, Coral Garden, and the lava Drop-off.
Is this suitable for macro photography enthusiasts? Absolutely, many reviews highlight excellent macro opportunities, especially with guides actively helping spot tiny creatures.
In sum, this tour offers seasoned divers a chance to explore Bali’s most celebrated underwater environments with expert guidance, friendly service, and excellent value. Whether you’re chasing wrecks or tiny macro wonders, Tulamben’s waters won’t disappoint.