Recommendations for Manado

[yapster18]

Hi everyone,

We are planning a dive trip to Manado next month, planning to dive at both Bunaken and Lembeh sites. Does anyone have any recommendations for dive resorts/centers to recommend please? Our budget are on the mid range side.

Thanks in advance for any reco!

 

[Tippytoes12]

My husband and I have today left Black Sand Dive Retreat which was absolutely wonderful with excellent service in and below the water. For such a high quality resort the price is extremely reasonable. On one dive we were thrilled to have spotted a baby blue ring octopus, On the way across the strait a big spotty fin appeared followed by a large open mouth..yes a whaleshark on the surface!

 

[scrane]

Bangka. Oh, so close.

 

[yapster18]

My husband have today left Black Sand Dive Retreat which was absolutely wonderful with excellent service andinas below the water. For such a high quality resort the price is extremely reasonable. On one dive we were thrilled to have spotted a baby blue ring octopus, On the way across the straight a big spotty fin appeared followed by a large open mouth..yes a whaleshark appeared on the surface!

That is so cool! Did you all jump into the water?

Thanks for the recommendation. Will check them out!

 

[Tippytoes12]

That is so cool! Did you all jump into the water?

Thanks for the recommendation. Will check them out!

It was very murky and the WS kept moving, so we didn’t.

 

[chillyinCanada]

What a treat, Tippytoes! So very rare!

 

[CF L]

I would recommend considering the Murex Resorts Passport to Paradise package.

 

[cozcharlie]

I would recommend considering the Murex Resorts Passport to Paradise package.

I would second this. I believe the Passport to paradise affiliated resort in Lembeh is the Lembeh Resort (where Murex operates the dive shop ). The only caveat is those resorts are high end by local standards (but not Singapore standards where you live according to your profile ). Bottom line is Passport to Paradise would be my first choice, but if the prices are higher then you want to pay I am pretty sure you can go cheaper without moving too far down in quality

 

[Indah]

If you want to get the best out of your dives, what about this:
We offer each guest or group their own dedicated dive boat, operated by our experienced staff. Our boats are designed by divers and built for diving, with a capacity of 8 divers plus crew. Whether you come alone, with your spouse, buddy, or group of friends, you’ll have exclusive use of one of our boats. If you meet new friends and want to share the boat and costs, we will adjust the schedule accordingly.

This allows you to create your own schedule, decide when and where to dive, and dive without time limits (within safety standards).
Divers Lodge Lembeh