Bunaken Sea Garden: The World Natural Heritage

The one of famous places in Indonesia is Bunaken Sea Garden; it is located in North Sulawesi, as one of potential nature of provinces in Indonesia. Well known as the world famous Bunaken Marine National Park, with an area 75.26 hectare, is located very close to Manado and comprises of 5 islands: Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Montehage and Nain.

The superb diving and snorkeling sites puts the Marine Park in one of the top 10 dive areas of the world and is a mecca for seasoned and beginner divers alike. Wall diving offers a spectacular drop off 100's of meters deep and the warm water is particularly inviting.

But it is for the diversity of sea life to be found around the Park that attracts divers from around the world. Whether you are a fan of big pelagic fish down to the smallest anemone, whatever your fascination, you certainly won't be disappointed. For those who are avid underwater photography be sure to bring countless rolls of film, photo opportunities abound.

The variety of fish and other marine life often spotted include: Napoleon Wrasse, Angelfish, Turtles, Blue Ribbon Eels, Stingrays, Eagelrays, Snappers, Groupers, and sharks to name a few. There are hundreds of other species too numerous to list but easily located at a variety of sites.

There are now a number of professional dive operators in and around Manado with well-trained staff and a commitment to safety. Accommodations are available at most dive operators. Diving and tour packages including equipment rentals and meals are extremely competitive.

How to get there

The Bunaken Marine Park National can be reached through Manado Harbour, by motorboat to Siladen Island about 20 minutes, to Bunaken Island about 30 minutes, to Montehage about 50 minutes, and to Nain about 60 minutes. From The Blue Banter Marina – Manado Harbour, It takes 10-15 minutes by cruise to Bunaken. By Speed Boat only takes 20 minutes to Bunaken’s diving location from Nusantara Diving Centre (NDC), at Molas Are