Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by bustling marine life, and exploring a historic shipwreck that’s become an underwater playground. This full-day scuba tour in Tulamben takes you from Jimbaran, Bali, to one of Indonesia’s most celebrated diving sites — the USAT Liberty Wreck. For just $134 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours immersed in vibrant coral reefs and past intriguing relics of history, all guided by professional local instructors.

What we love about this experience is the combination of accessible adventure and natural beauty. First, the chance to explore the legendary Liberty wreck — a site that attracts divers from all over — is a thrill that’s hard to match. Second, the inclusion of coral garden dives offers a peaceful contrast, showcasing Bali’s colorful underwater life in a lush, natural setting.

A potential drawback? The tour’s timing involves early morning pickup and a full day’s commitment, which might be tiring if you prefer more relaxed activities. Also, if you’re not a certified diver, the “Try Scuba” option recommends staying within a shallow 12-meter limit, which might feel a bit restrictive for some eager underwater explorers.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to combine history, marine biodiversity, and adventure, whether you’re a certified diver or just curious about trying scuba for the first time. The reviews highlight helpful guidance and unforgettable scenery, making this a well-rounded choice for both beginners and experienced divers alike.

Key Points

Rich Marine Life & Coral Reefs: Tulamben’s waters are bursting with colorful marine animals and healthy coral gardens.
Historic Wreck: The USAT Liberty has become a magnet for divers, offering an engaging and photogenic underwater experience.
Inclusive for Different Skill Levels: Whether certified or not, you can enjoy the tour — with options tailored to your experience.
Professional Guidance: Local guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, enhancing safety and enjoyment.
Value for Money: The package includes equipment, transfers, and a local lunch, making it a cost-effective way to explore Bali’s underwater scene.
Early Start & Full Day: Prepare for a 10-hour adventure that covers transportation, two dives, and relaxation.

The Itinerary: From Jimbaran to the Underwater World

This tour kicks off with an early pickup at 7:30 AM from your hotel in Jimbaran. This timing is practical because it allows you to beat the crowds and set out on your adventure while the island is still quiet. The drive to Tulamben usually takes a couple of hours, giving you time to relax and prepare for the day ahead. We appreciate how the tour includes round-trip transport — no need to worry about navigating Bali’s busy roads or arranging your own way there.

By around 10:00 AM, you’ll meet your instructor at the dive center, who will provide a comprehensive briefing on safety procedures, dive signals, and what to expect. The guides are described as helpful and professional, which is reassuring for those new to diving or unfamiliar with the site.

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The First Dive at USAT Liberty Wreck

Once geared up, you’ll be assisted with your equipment by porters — a thoughtful touch that minimizes hassle. The shipwreck itself, stranded since the 1940s, lies at a depth that comfortably suits both certified divers and beginners trying out “FUN” or “TRY” diving. The wreck is not just a relic; it’s an artificial reef teeming with marine life, coral formations, and underwater structures to explore.

The dive lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, during which you can expect to see a variety of fish, possibly some reef sharks, and a dazzling array of coral. As one reviewer put it, their guides “showed us all the best spots,” enriching the experience with local knowledge. The wreck’s size and complexity offer plenty of photo opportunities, especially for those with underwater cameras (rental available for $25 USD).

Lunch Break and Rest

After your first immersion, the tour pauses for a well-deserved lunch around 12:00-1:00 PM. The included meal features local favorites like fried rice or noodle dishes, accompanied by a drink — a delicious way to replenish energy. Taking time to relax and enjoy the surroundings allows your body to recover before the second dive.

The Coral Garden Dive

Post-lunch, you’ll head to the Coral Garden, a site renowned for its vivid coral formations resembling a lush underwater garden. It’s an ideal spot for a second dive, lasting another 30 to 45 minutes. Here, you’ll encounter a variety of reef fish and perhaps some smaller critters hiding in the coral branches.

The depth limit for fun divers is no more than 30 meters, ensuring safety and comfort, while uncertified divers are advised to stay within 12 meters — perfect for those just beginning or trying scuba for the first time.

The Return and Reflection

After the second dive, the group will be transported back to Jimbaran, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. Many reviewers mention how professional the guides are, emphasizing their helpfulness and clear instructions. Several note that the experience exceeded expectations and that they’d happily do it again or recommend it to friends.

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What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour price of $134 covers all necessary equipment — full set of dive gear, tanks, weights — plus shuttle transportation, porter service, entrance fees, and a local lunch. This makes the tour quite good value, especially considering the personalized service and guidance.

If you want to capture underwater moments, digital camera rentals are available for $25 USD, which many found worthwhile to record the stunning scenery. Remember, the tour is private, meaning your group will enjoy exclusive attention, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

A few practical points: early wake-up, the full day length, and the need for appropriate health — the tour advises against diving with the flu or other illnesses — are worth noting for planning your day.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides for their helpfulness and patience, especially for beginners. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guides were super helpful and showed us all the best spots!” which is significant for a safe and enjoyable tour. The coral garden and shipwreck diving are celebrated for their stunning scenery, with visitors describing the marine life as vibrant and the wreck as an engaging historical highlight.

The value for money is apparent when you consider what’s included: two dives, equipment, transfer, and a local meal all in one package. It’s a hassle-free way to see Bali’s underwater treasure trove without the worry of organizing separate activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for certified divers eager to explore the legendary USAT Liberty wreck and vibrant coral reefs. The “Fun” dive option allows certified divers to enjoy deeper, more adventurous dives, while “Try” divers or beginners** will appreciate the shallow, controlled conditions. Fit travelers who enjoy an early start and full-day adventure will find this tour well worth the effort.

It’s perfect for those looking for a combination of history, natural beauty, and guided safety. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a more relaxed schedule or isn’t comfortable with full-day commitments, this might require some planning.

The Sum Up

The Full-Day Scuba Diving Experience in Tulamben offers a well-rounded look at Bali’s underwater allure. It combines historical fascination with the USAT Liberty wreck, breathtaking coral gardens, and marine life in a way that’s accessible for both seasoned divers and newcomers. The professionalism of guides, the inclusiveness of the package, and the stunning scenery make it a compelling choice for anyone eager to explore Bali’s underwater world.

While the early start and full-day commitment might not suit everyone, those who enjoy active, guided adventures will find this tour rewarding. It’s a fantastic way to turn a Bali holiday into an unforgettable underwater adventure, especially if you want a safe, well-organized experience with authentic touches.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel pickup and round-trip transfer are included, making logistics hassle-free and allowing you to focus on the adventure.

Can uncertified divers participate?
Absolutely. There’s a “Try Scuba” option recommended for uncertified divers, with a maximum depth of 12 meters, perfect for first-timers.

What equipment do I need to bring?
All diving gear, including tanks and weights, is provided. If you want to take underwater photos, you can rent a digital camera for $25 USD.

How long is each dive?
Each dive lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the marine environment.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local meal with rice or noodles and a drink is included, providing good energy for the day’s activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the information doesn’t specify age limits, the physical activity involved suggests it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with early mornings and full-day excursions.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This full-day adventure in Tulamben promises an authentic, safe, and exhilarating peek into Bali’s underwater treasures. Whether you’re chasing history, vibrant coral life, or simply the thrill of exploring beneath the waves, this tour offers a memorable experience worth considering.