Float above vibrant reefs, swim alongside turtles, and encounter reef fish in crystal-clear tropical waters. Guided snorkelling sessions in North Sulawesi offer access to some of Indonesia’s most biodiverse sites, with options for shore and boat-based experiences tailored to all levels.
Each session is led by experienced snorkel guides and includes two or three water entries, depending on the option chosen. In Bunaken, you’ll snorkel over shallow coral gardens filled with fairy basslets, butterflyfish, and resting turtles. Move from calm, shallow reef tops to deeper drop-offs where fusiliers and mackerel pass through open water. Conditions are generally calm, and visibility is excellent, making this ideal for new snorkellers and children.
At Murex Bangka, snorkelling starts right off the beach with access to the house reef just metres from your accommodation. Expect healthy coral coverage, anemones, clownfish, nudibranchs, and occasional rays or sea snakes. Early morning sessions offer the best chance to spot dugongs, and during resort-to-resort boat transfers, dolphins and even whales are commonly seen. If you’re not in the water every session, you can join optional land tours or enjoy downtime at the beach or pool.
North Sulawesi sits in the heart of the Coral Triangle, known for its marine biodiversity. Bunaken National Park, near Manado, is a marine protected area with shallow reef flats and dramatic underwater walls. The park is one of Indonesia’s oldest and is ideal for those wanting varied underwater topography and high chances of marine life sightings in easy-to-reach locations.
Bangka Island, north of Sulawesi’s mainland, offers a more remote setting. With its quiet coves, sandy beaches, and vibrant reefs, it provides a slower-paced environment while still delivering outstanding snorkelling right from the shore. The house reef at Bangka is especially popular for its access and species variety, while boat rides to nearby snorkel spots add to the flexibility.
No snorkelling experience is required and sessions are designed to accommodate complete beginners. Children are welcome, and flotation aids can be provided for comfort. A basic ability to swim is recommended to enjoy the experience fully.
All necessary equipment is included and fitted by staff before each session. You’re also welcome to bring your own personal mask, snorkel, or short wetsuit for comfort. Guides will brief you on each site and stay close by during every session.
The team running these sessions is family-led, safety-conscious, and deeply experienced in working with beginners, families, and those new to snorkelling. Each guide knows the local reefs well and helps point out wildlife, ensuring each session is engaging as well as safe.
Sessions are structured but flexible. Whether you book a full-day or just an afternoon, you’ll be looked after from shore to sea and back again. With incredible marine life, calm waters, and professional guidance, it’s an ideal way to experience snorkelling in one of the world’s richest underwater regions.
Snorkelling in North Sulawesi is possible year-round due to its equatorial climate. However, the best visibility tends to be during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During these months, water conditions are calmer, rainfall is minimal, and marine life sightings are consistent.
The wet season, from November to March, can still offer excellent snorkelling, especially at sheltered sites, but there may be occasional rain showers. Water temperatures remain warm year-round (around 28–30°C), so even during wetter months, snorkelling remains enjoyable with the added benefit of fewer tourists.
No prior snorkelling experience is required. The trips are designed to be accessible for beginners, families, and even non-swimmers who are comfortable floating in shallow water. Guides are trained to assist newcomers and provide tips to help you get the most out of each session.
Introductory briefings are given before every trip to explain how to use the equipment and how to move safely around the reef. Flotation devices are available upon request, and the guides will remain close to assist anyone who needs extra support.
The reefs of Bunaken and Bangka are teeming with marine life. Expect to see colourful coral formations, clownfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, damselfish, and sea turtles in almost every session. On deeper reefs and drop-offs, you may spot reef sharks, tuna, and larger pelagics cruising by.
Critter lovers can also enjoy sightings of nudibranchs, ribbon eels, scorpionfish, and sometimes even octopus or cuttlefish on the sandy patches and house reefs. Dugong sightings are possible at Bangka during early morning sessions, and dolphins are often seen from the boat during resort transfers.
Yes, snorkelling here is family-friendly and suitable for most ages. Calm conditions in the house reef and shallow coral gardens make it especially ideal for younger snorkellers or those less confident in the water. Kids often enjoy the variety of colourful fish and the easy access from the beach.
Older adults or those with mobility concerns can also join with assistance from guides. The team will adapt the experience as needed, using flotation aids, choosing calmer locations, and offering shore-based options if needed. Safety is always the priority, and guides are trained to accommodate a range of physical abilities.
All equipment is provided and includes a mask, snorkel, fins, and a short wetsuit or rash vest. Sizes are available for adults and children, and everything is cleaned and maintained to a high standard. Flotation aids are also available upon request.
You’re also welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer, especially if you have a custom-fit mask or prescription lenses. Staff will check all equipment for fit and comfort before heading into the water and are happy to help you adjust anything as needed.
There are three options available: a full-day trip with three guided snorkelling sessions, a morning session with two snorkels, or a single afternoon snorkel. Each session is at a different site, selected based on weather, tides, and visibility to give you the best possible conditions.
Each snorkel typically lasts between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on comfort, conditions, and what there is to see. Breaks between sessions include refreshments, time on the boat or beach, and a chance to discuss what you’ve seen with your guide.
Yes, many guests choose to combine both locations. A unique feature is the boat transfer between resorts, which turns travel into an additional snorkelling session. These transfers give you the chance to visit more remote reefs and sometimes spot marine life like dolphins or whales along the way.
You can choose how many nights to spend at each resort and tailor your stay depending on what you’d like to see and do. Packages are flexible, and the team will help you plan the route that best suits your interests and snorkelling preferences.
Please contact us via the adventuro chat to arrange a bespoke snorkelling trip.
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North Sulawesi, Indonesia
From $3447
Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
From Dhs256.63
