Off Bali’s southeastern coast, Nusa Penida stands out as Indonesia’s premier underwater destination. First-timers can join excellent half-day introductory programs, while certified divers head straight to the island’s renowned sites.
I especially love the “Manta Ray Experience” with Sanctum Dive – they’re well-organized, safety-conscious, and their guides know exactly where to spot these gentle giants. What truly sets these waters apart is the perfect mix of dramatic walls, vibrant reefs, and regular visits from large pelagics.
The crystal-clear visibility and relatively mild currents make most sites accessible year-round. Let’s explore the finest tours this underwater paradise has to offer.
Good To Know
Nusa Penida offers a half-day scuba diving program for non-certified divers, including pool training and an open water dive guided by certified instructors.
Sanctum Dive, a renowned dive operator, provides comprehensive scuba diving packages in Nusa Penida, including necessary equipment and transportation.
Diving with manta rays is a popular and captivating experience in Nusa Penida, with a 90% chance of spotting the majestic creatures.
Scuba dive with manta rays through a package offered by Sanctum Dive, which includes a delicious lunch, refreshments, and a small group size.
Sanctum Dive also offers a “Try Scuba Diving for Beginners with Manta Rays” program, suitable for those new to scuba diving and wheelchair accessible.
Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program – for Non-Certified Divers
For non-certified divers, the Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program offers a fantastic way to explore the underwater wonders of this Indonesian island. The half-day program includes learning the basics and skills in a pool before an open water dive, all under the guidance of a certified instructor.
Located at the Pure Dive Resort in Nusa Penida, the program provides participants with a full set of standard diving gear, excluding a dive computer, as well as diving insurance. To participate, travelers must be in reasonably good health, with no issues related to the respiratory system, sinuses, or ears. It’s not recommended for those with back problems, heart problems, or who are pregnant.
The program is highly recommended, with 100% approval from 35 previous travelers. For added safety, the open water dive has a maximum of two divers per instructor. With a maximum group size of 10, this is an intimate and personalized scuba diving experience perfect for non-certified adventurers.
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Diving in Nusa Penida
Situated off the southeastern coast of Bali, the island of Nusa Penida offers some of the most captivating scuba diving experiences in Indonesia. Sanctum Dive, a renowned dive operator, provides an excellent opportunity to explore the island’s underwater wonders. Their diving package includes the use of necessary scuba equipment, though transportation from the hotel isn’t included.
The meeting point for the dive is at Sanctum Dive’s facility in Ped, Nusa Penida. Divers can expect a maximum group size of 10, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. However, the activity isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or physical limitations, such as those with back problems, pregnant women, or individuals with heart conditions.
Priced at $163.20 per person, the dive package offers a competitive rate with a lowest price guarantee. With a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, Sanctum Dive is a trusted choice for those seeking an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in the stunning waters of Nusa Penida.
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Diving With Manta Ray at Nusa Penida
Divers seeking an up-close encounter with the majestic manta ray can embark on an exhilarating adventure at Nusa Penida. This diving experience includes a speedboat transfer, two dive activities, and the services of a captain and dive instructor. Divers will also receive all necessary dive equipment, a delicious lunch, and access to shower and towel facilities. For added convenience, hotel transfer services and a hotel room in Nusa Penida are included.
The diving takes place at the Banjar Nyuh Pier, with the option to request a pickup or head directly to the meeting point. With a 90% chance of spotting manta rays, depending on weather and sea conditions, this is an opportunity not to be missed. The experience can accommodate up to 12 travelers, with a minimum age of 8 years old. Prices are based on group size, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
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Scuba Dive With Manta Rays
Scuba divers can embark on an exhilarating adventure to encounter the majestic manta rays at Nusa Penida. Sanctum Dive, a reputable diving operator, offers a tour that takes visitors to the best spots to spot these gentle giants. The tour includes a delicious lunch, refreshing snacks, and coffee or tea to fuel the journey.
Participants will meet at the Sanctum Dive location in Nusa Penida, where they’ll receive a safety briefing and get equipped with high-quality scuba gear. The dive site is a short boat ride away, and once underwater, divers can witness the graceful movements of the manta rays as they glide through the ocean. The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
This activity is suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, and no pre-existing heart conditions or other serious medical issues. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Scuba Dive With Manta Rays Review
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Try Scuba Diving for Beginners With Manta Rays
Sanctum Dive’s beginner-friendly scuba diving experience in Nusa Penida offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter the majestic manta rays. Suitable for those new to scuba diving, this activity includes all necessary equipment and a guided dive led by experienced instructors.
The day begins with a convenient meeting point at Sanctum Dive in Nusa Penida, where you will enjoy coffee, tea, and a tasty lunch. After a safety briefing, divers will descend into the azure waters, exploring the vibrant marine life and, with luck, spotting the graceful manta rays.
The maximum group size of 10 travelers ensures a personalized experience. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the activity is wheelchair accessible. With a moderate fitness level required, this scuba diving adventure is an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable underwater encounter in Bali, Indonesia. The cost is $129.52 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Read our full review: Try Scuba Diving for Beginners With Manta Rays Review
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The Sum Up
Nusa Penida offers some of the best scuba diving experiences in the world. Non-certified divers can try the Nusa Penida Try Scuba Diving Program, while certified divers can explore the island’s diverse marine life, including the opportunity to dive with majestic manta rays. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Nusa Penida provides an unforgettable underwater adventure.