Wakatobi info please

[chillyinCanada]

I've been given to understand that there is another dive resort at Wakatobi, not so high end but the diving is, of course, the same.

Does anyone have any input/info on this please.

 

[BFRedrocks]

I assume you're referring specifically to Wakatobi Dive Resort. It's famous for overall quality experience and infamous for high prices; whether a given level of 'luxury' is worth a given added premium cost is up to the potential customer. Evidently you thought it was, for you. Can you elaborate specifically on what features you personally got for whatever extra cost you paid (vs. some hypothetical cheaper alternative; I have't priced any out so I don't know the numbers) that made it worthwhile to you? It might help others struggling with that decision.

Yes, specifically Wakatobi Dive Resort (www.wakatobi.com). I recognize I am very fortunate to be able to afford the "luxury" of this resort in particular...it's definitely not affordable for all, and whether it is a "save up for years for a once-in-a-lifetime trip there," well, that is up to the individual. What I will say is the service is impeccable, from the moment you arrive in Bali and the WDR team personally escort you through ticketing and security (or to your Bali hotel transfer if you arrive early), to the charter flight to the island, to the any level of dive valet service you want (they will literally do everything for you, or only what you want...e.g., I like to analyze my own nitrox tanks, so they always left my reg unattached so I could do that). The entire staff is great and really set out to make your stay as incredible as they can. I joked with them about having a guitar to play while I was there, and they brought me one with a pack of picks and a new set of strings.

The diving is amazing (and can be challenging at times with some crazy currents), but you can certainly find that at a lot of places that are way less expensive. I do like that their boats are big with limited divers (it is definitely NOT the cattle call scene you can get at some other dive resorts), so there is plenty of room for everyone as well as all the big cameras that a lot of folks bring. I love it there and because it is relatively affordable to me, I am able to consider it as part of my diving travel. For others, especially from those in the US where it is a LOT of travel (about 40 hours for us to get there this time), it may be that once-in-a-lifetime trip, or simply not worth it given other less costly destinations. Their Bali office staff are great to chat with, so folks who are considering it may want to ping them and ask them about the experience.

Hope that helps.

 

[Jaan]

And for those that are tempted to splurge and wondering whether it could possibly be worth it .. just check out this 'critter finding guide' by Walt Stearns that my wife Nathalie found. SIMPLY AMAZING, Maybe some tips for seasoned divers that are planning a trip to Wakatobi also. We're certainly going to adhere to some of these tips ourselves. Happy to get more tips from those that have been also.
(the recent reports have been great!)

Wakatobi's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

 

[Cali_diver]

The good news is ... for those who can't afford Wakatobi, all of those critters are pretty common and can be seen just about everywhere in Indonesia. As for the resort.. I think it is great that people love it and want to go back! It is a great resort for big groups especially with their total occupancy up to (I think ) just under 60 guests now. I think it is great that a dive op gets return guests... that is what keeps them in business! The people that I have met that worked there in the past loved it as well so that says a bunch. We all have our favorites that we turn to over and over again. Just don't limit yourself... and try dip your toes in other parts of Indonesia too!!!

 

[chillyinCanada]

I'd wanted to go for a number of years but that desire eased off with my experiences in Raja Ampat, North Sulawesi and Bali. I'm back looking at Wakatobi now though.