12.27.2008

Bali Diving - Tulamben Area

Tulamben Bay is the most visited dive location in Bali. There are 3 dive sites in the area and offer challenge to every level of diver. All sites are stunningly beautiful in there own right due to the myriad species of fish and Coral. The variety and amount of flora and fauna is explained by the teeming plankton that is swept through the bay. Bali?s black sand beaches attract countless photographers every year because the pictures are refreshing and new. These environments are unique and provide an absorbing contrast with the marine life. Snorkel fans will be pleased to note that there are many opportunities for them at each of the Tulamben sites.

USAT Liberty Shipwreck

This is one of the most popular dive sites in Southeast-Asia and certainly amongst the best in the world. There are huge amounts of options for divers of all abilities. The wreck experiences only the smallest of currents meaning that conditions are usually conducive to excellent diving. Photographers will be in heaven with over 500 species of fish regularly visiting the wreck, the corals are equally as impressive, just be sure to take enough film. Night diving is also a treat with many and varied animals to be seen.

Highlight:
- Wreck
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Ghost Pipefish, Fusiliers, Angel Fish and Surgeon Fish
- Slight Currents
- 10-30 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver


The Wall, Drop-off

One of the big surprises about this site is the occasional sightings of the Whale Shark. This provides an unforgettable dive and a chance to spend some time with these incredible creatures. Sponges and Corals line the wall all the way to the seabed, there is an impressive range on show. These help to attract numerous small creatures such as Nudibranchs and Shrimp. All these incredible sights are spread over a large area that allows photographers time to select their shots.

Highlight:
- Reef Dive
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Moray Eel, Bumphead Parrot Fish, Wrasse and Hammerhead Shark
- None to Slight Currents
- 10-20 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver


The Coral Garden

Coral Garden, as its name would suggest, contains a profusion of hard and soft Coral life as well as many varieties of Sponge. There are regular sightings of Black Tip Reef Sharks and Spanish Dancers. The latter are more commonly seen after dark in an area that offers some of the best night diving anywhere. It is better to go around the full moon when visibility is at its highest. This site has many ridges and hiding places for some particularly rare species, happy hunting.

Highlight:
- Reef and Coral
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Catfish, Razor Fish, Wrasse and Blue Ribbon Eel
- Slight to Moderate Currents
- 5-15 Meters Visibility
- All Levels of Diver


Batu Kelebit


Coral aficionados will be stunned by the diversity on show in such a small area. This site lies 5 minutes outside of the Tulamben Bay and can be used as a first dive before returning closer to the coast. Well worth a visit, there are varieties of flora and fauna that differ markedly from other local sites. Even the sand is a different colour. The animals range in size from the tiny Nudibranchs to the larger Pelagics due to the plankton rich environment. There are strong currents at times so take precautions before arrival.

Highlight:
- Rock Dives
- Assorted Hard and Soft Corals
- Barracuda, White Tip Reef Shark and Big-Eyed Trevally
- Slight to Strong Currents
- 10-25 Meter Visibility
- All Levels of Diver