2 or 3 dives in Nusa Lembongan and Penida, for certified diver (in Lembongan)

Thinking about diving in Bali? You’re in for a treat, especially if you’re a certified diver ready to explore some of Indonesia’s most iconic underwater sites. This particular tour, offered by Bali Diving Academy, promises up to three dives around Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, with a special focus on encounters with mantas — those graceful, gentle giants of the sea.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the almost guaranteed manta sightings at Manta Point, a site renowned worldwide. Second, the flexibility of choosing between 2 or 3 dives to tailor your underwater adventure. However, it’s worth noting that the exact sites visited can depend on weather and sea conditions, which is common in open water activities.

This tour is best suited for certified divers who appreciate a well-organized operation with knowledgeable guides. If you’re eager for a mix of marine life viewing, stunning coral formations, and the thrill of authentic diving in Bali’s famed waters, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Guaranteed manta ray encounters at Manta Point, a must-see for marine life lovers
• Flexible options for 2 or 3 dives based on your interest and stamina
• All essential gear included, with dive computers and GoPros available for rent
• Well-organized experience with a professional, friendly team and small group sizes
• Lunch on the boat during surface intervals provides a relaxing break
• Prime location on Nusa Lembongan, offering access to Bali’s most renowned dive sites

An In-Depth Look at the Bali Diving Academy Dive Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The day kicks off early — meet at the Bali Diving Academy on Nusa Lembongan around 7:30 or 10 am, depending on your chosen schedule. You’ll set up your gear with guidance from your dive guide, who will brief you on the plan for the day, including safety protocols and site specifics.

At 8:00 am or 10:30 am, your boat departs, heading out to some of Bali’s most celebrated dive spots. Whether you opt for two or three dives, the sites typically include Blue Corner, Crystal Bay, and Manta Point, with the possibility of requesting specific locations if you have preferences. Keep in mind, while Manta Point sightings are highly likely, they are not guaranteed every day, as weather and sea conditions influence the schedule.

Diving at Manta Point is the main highlight — you can expect to see manta rays flying above cleaning stations or performing mating displays. The sheer grace of these creatures is unforgettable, and many reviews emphasize the “almost certain” manta sightings. One enthusiastic reviewer said, “Advanced open water course completed with Rai. Excellent couple days diving at manta point, crystal beach and more. Highly recommend.”

After your first dive, you’ll enjoy a lunch on the boat — a simple, but appreciated, lunch box with coffee and tea — allowing you to relax during your surface interval. This is a good time to swap stories, check your gear, or simply enjoy the scenery.

A second or third dive follows, often with the option to explore different sites like Crystal Bay or the Mangroves, where you may encounter turtles, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Reviewers noted that the dives are arranged to minimize crowding and maximize your viewing experience, which is a major plus.

The boat usually returns around 2:30 or 3 pm, giving you time to reflect on your underwater adventures and share photos of the manta rays or other marvels.

Gear, Guides, and Group Sizes

All essential diving gear is included in the price, meaning you won’t need to worry about lugging your own equipment across Bali. For those wishing to capture their underwater moments, GoPro cameras and dive computers are available for rent.

The tour keeps groups small — max eight divers — ensuring personalized attention and a safer experience, especially important when diving with larger marine animals like mantas.

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, emphasizing their knowledge and care. One noted, “The diving team on Nusa Lembongan was top notch…Sybil, Izzy, KT, Ryan, and Andrew.”

Cost and Value: Is it Worth It?

At $105 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusiveness of all fees, taxes, lunch, and essential gear. The fact that most bookings are made 18 days in advance indicates its popularity and perceived quality.

While there’s an additional fuel surcharge for Manta Point, it’s payable on site, which means you only pay if you actually go there. The flexibility in site selection and the high likelihood of manta sightings make this a worthwhile investment for certified divers eager to see Indonesia’s renowned marine animals.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight how well-organized and tailored the experience is. One said, “Well organized, tailored our dives to our requests, great communication, highly recommend!” Others appreciated the professional approach: “Dive instructors pick the best spots, timing avoiding crowds and adjusting dives to the level of participants.”

Many reviews focus on the stunning marine life — from manta rays to turtles — and the quality of the coral reefs, with comments like “beautiful coral, lots of sea life.”

A notable point is the balance of excitement and relaxation: the opportunity to see manta rays in their natural habitat, combined with the comfort of a well-run boat trip with good food and friendly staff.

Weather and Conditions

Sea conditions influence the sites visited. Some reviewers mention rougher waters or less visibility during certain seasons, but overall, the conditions tend to favor good sightings. The guides are attentive to safety, as one reviewer shared, “The captain made a judgement error, but they have been briefed to always remain cautious.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits certified divers looking for a memorable marine encounter. It’s ideal for those who enjoy small group settings, appreciate professional guides, and want to maximize their chances of seeing manta rays.

If you’re interested in a flexible, well-organized day out with excellent value, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suitable if you’re staying in Bali or Nusa Lembongan and want a serious dive with high chances of rewarding marine life sightings.

The Sum Up: Is This Dive Tour for You?

For certified divers eager to see manta rays and explore Bali’s underwater treasures, this tour from Bali Diving Academy offers a trustworthy and well-reviewed option. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and included gear mean you can focus on what matters — enjoying the underwater spectacle — rather than worrying about logistics.

If you’re seeking a mix of adventure and comfort, with the flexibility of choosing between 2 or 3 dives, this experience provides good value. The lunch, friendly staff, and professional approach are added bonuses that contribute to a memorable day on the water.

However, if your priority is guaranteed Mola Mola sightings or you’re not certified, this tour might not be the best fit. Weather can influence the exact sites visited, but the overall reputation and reviews suggest you’re very likely to come away with incredible stories and photos.

All in all, this is a reliable, well-regarded way to discover Bali’s underwater diversity, perfect for divers who want the best chance to swim alongside manta rays and other marine marvels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, proof of certification is required. The tour is designed specifically for certified divers who are comfortable with multiple dives in open water.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, along with lunch, a dive guide, and essential scuba gear. Computers and GoPros are available to rent if you want to document your trip.

Can I request specific sites to visit?
While requests are welcome, the final site selection depends on weather and sea conditions, and the schedule. The guides aim to visit Manta Point regularly but cannot guarantee it every day.

What about the group size?
The maximum group size is eight divers, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

When should I book?
Most bookings are made around 18 days in advance, due to high demand for this popular tour.

Is there a fuel surcharge for Manta Point?
Yes, there’s a fuel surcharge payable on-site if you visit Manta Point, but it’s only charged if the site is visited.

What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 6 hours, including meet-up, setup, dives, surface interval, and return.

What season is best for manta sightings?
While sightings are almost guaranteed year-round, the best chances are June to October, when conditions are typically optimal.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent diving, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, thanks to the flexible cancellation policy.

In essence, this Bali Diving Academy tour offers certified divers an excellent opportunity to explore some of Bali’s most famous underwater sites with experienced guides, in a safe, organized, and value-packed manner. Whether you’re chasing manta rays, colorful reefs, or simply enjoying a well-managed boat trip, it’s a compelling choice for your Bali underwater adventure.