Planning a first-time underwater adventure in Bali? This Try Scuba Diving tour at the famous Tulamben shipwreck offers a fantastic way to dip your toes into scuba without needing a certification. With an impressive 5.0 rating based on glowing reviews, this experience combines safety, convenience, and authenticity.
It’s ideal for those curious about diving but hesitant to commit long-term, or travelers eager to add a unique, memorable activity to their Bali itinerary.
What we love about this experience are two things in particular: the personalized attention from professional instructors and the stunning wreck that makes for an unforgettable visual. The small group size — just a maximum of eight travelers — ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the inclusion of all gear, plus a beachside lunch, makes it straightforward and hassle-free.
One thing to keep in mind is the drive to Tulamben, which takes around 2-3 hours from popular tourist hubs like Kuta or Seminyak. While this means a longer day, most find that the immersion in Bali’s underwater world is well worth the trip. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, beginners eager for a guided experience, and those who enjoy a bit of travel time in exchange for a spectacular destination.
- Key Points
- Overview of the Experience
- Morning Dive at the USS Liberty
- Lunch and Relaxation
- Afternoon Dive at the Wreck
- Return Journey and Reflection
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- The Experience for Different Travelers
- The Value of This Tour
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Scuba Diving Tours in Kuta
- More Tour Reviews in Kuta
Key Points
- No certification needed: Perfect for first-timers, with all safety and instruction provided.
- Two shore dives: Explore different sections of the USAT Liberty wreck, each offering unique sights.
- Personalized attention: Each instructor guides only two divers, prioritizing safety and confidence.
- All-inclusive: Includes equipment, lunch, insurance, reef tax, and transportation from key Bali areas.
- Long but rewarding day: Around 9 hours from pickup to return, with travel time offset by the experience.
- Authentic Bali adventure: Combines scenic drive, cultural interest, and underwater beauty.
Overview of the Experience
This tour begins early, with pickups starting at 7:00 AM from your Bali accommodation in Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, or Sanur. The pickup process is smooth, with most participants arriving at Bali Diving’s office by 7:30 AM to prepare for the journey. The drive to Tulamben Wreck takes about 2 to 3 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy Bali’s scenic countryside and perhaps chat with fellow travelers about their expectations.
Once you arrive at Tulamben, the atmosphere shifts to anticipation. The team at Bali Diving prepares you with a briefing on safety and what to expect during your two shore dives. The full safety gear is included, and the professionalism of the staff is evident from the start — reviews praise the kind and patient instructors, especially for beginners.
You can also read our reviews of more scuba diving tours in Kuta
Morning Dive at the USS Liberty
By 11:00 AM, you’re in the water. The wreck of the USAT Liberty is the highlight, lying just off the beach. This WWII ship was torpedoed during the war, then pushed into the ocean by a volcanic eruption, creating one of Bali’s most iconic dive sites. The first dive lets you explore a different section of the ship, with gentle currents and excellent visibility, making it suitable for those new to diving.
Reviewers often mention how the site’s stunning views and marine life make it worth the long drive. One reviewer called it a “fab first dive,” noting that the site’s size and structure are perfect for beginners seeking a safe yet exciting underwater experience.
Lunch and Relaxation
After the first dive, a well-earned lunch awaits — a simple, tasty beachside meal with vegetables, rice, and protein options, plus mineral water. The break is a great chance to chat with instructors and fellow travelers about what you just saw.
Afternoon Dive at the Wreck
Recharged, you’ll gear up again around 1:00 PM for your second shore dive. This lets you see a different part of the structure or explore the surrounding reef, which, according to reviews, often features vibrant coral and plenty of marine life. The instructor’s personalized attention means you feel supported, even if it’s your first time underwater.
Return Journey and Reflection
By around 2:30 PM, the group begins heading back to Bali, arriving at your hotel by 5:00 PM. It’s a full day, but most agree the experience is immersive and rewarding enough to justify the trip.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour package covers most essentials, making it a great value. You get hotel pickup and drop-off, diving insurance, the reef tax, all safety and diving equipment, and a light lunch with mineral water. Professional instructors guide each pair of divers, ensuring safety and clear communication.
On the downside, travelers should remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes — there’s no towel or shower facilities included. Sunscreen is recommended, but it’s advisable to use reef-safe options to protect the marine environment.
The Experience for Different Travelers
This tour is ideal if you’re new to scuba because no certification or prior experience is needed. Its small group size ensures personalized support, and the professional instruction means you’re in safe hands. Reviewers consistently mention how kind and patient instructors like Fifi helped make their first dive comfortable and fun.
If you’re a bit nervous, the fact that each instructor guides only two divers offers peace of mind. The spectacular wreck, combined with Bali’s underwater biodiversity, makes it an experience you won’t forget, especially for those who love photography or marine life.
However, if you’re not comfortable traveling for several hours or prefer a shorter activity, this might be a full-day commitment. Also, if you have pre-existing medical conditions like asthma or heart issues, it’s wise to consult your doctor before booking, as you’ll need to fill out a health questionnaire.
The Value of This Tour
At $104.90 per person, the cost includes almost everything needed for a memorable underwater adventure. Considering the two guided dives, equipment, insurance, lunch, and transfers, this represents excellent value — especially compared to private rentals or certification courses.
Many travelers comment on how the overall professionalism, safety standards, and scenic site justify the expense. Plus, the chance to see the world-famous Tulamben wreck, which is renowned among divers, makes this a highlight of any Bali trip.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This activity is perfect for beginners wanting a guided, safe introduction to scuba diving. It’s also suited for adventurers eager to explore Bali’s underwater heritage without committing to a course. If you enjoy small groups and personalized attention, you’ll appreciate the intimate setting.
Travelers who value authentic experiences and want to combine a scenic drive with underwater sightseeing will find this tour appealing. Keep in mind, it’s a long but rewarding day — ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of travel to reach a world-class site.
The Sum Up
This Try Scuba Diving tour at Tulamben is a stellar choice for first-timers and those curious about the underwater world of Bali. It offers a safe, well-organized, and memorable experience, thanks to knowledgeable instructors and a breathtaking wreck site. The inclusion of transportation, equipment, and lunch means you can focus on enjoying the moment without extra hassle.
It’s a great value for the price and provides a unique window into Bali’s marine environment — perfect for adventurous travelers, families, or anyone wanting a truly authentic, hands-on activity.
While the journey is a bit lengthy, most find the experience worth every minute, and many reviews highlight how the staff’s professionalism and the site’s beauty make it a highlight of their Bali visit. If you’re ready for your first underwater adventure without the fuss, this tour offers a fantastic mix of safety, scenery, and fun.
Try Scuba Diving at Tulamben Shipwreck
FAQ
Do I need to have a diving license to participate?
No, you do not need a license or prior training. This is a beginner-friendly experience with all instruction included.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, with each instructor guiding only two divers, ensuring plenty of personal attention.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel and a change of clothes, and consider sunscreen (reef-safe recommended). All diving gear and safety equipment are provided.
What is the minimum age to join?
Participants must be at least 10 years old to participate.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately a 9-hour day, including travel, two dives, lunch, and transfers.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Nusa Dua to Seminyak and Sanur are included.
Are there any medical restrictions?
You’ll need to fill out a health questionnaire. Those with conditions like asthma or heart problems should consult their doctor before diving.
What if I don’t feel comfortable in the water?
Your instructor will support you closely. If you’re nervous, this is a good way to try scuba in a safe, controlled environment.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.
In essence, this tour offers an accessible, expertly guided introduction to Bali’sUnderwater world, perfect for curious travelers eager to experience the magic of the Tulamben shipwreck without diving certification.
