Bunaken & Lembeh — Coral Walls, Turtles & Macro Worlds

Diving is possible throughout the year, although seasonal conditions vary between the two destinations. April to October generally offers drier weather and favourable conditions for exploring Bunaken's coral walls. Lembeh Strait, sheltered by its geography, provides rewarding macro-diving opportunities year-round. Water temperature, visibility and currents can change with the seasons, so the ideal travel period also depends on your diving interests. Pacébo can help you select suitable dates based on your preferences and the prevailing local conditions.

If you have been away from diving for an extended period, a skills refresher is strongly recommended before joining the journey. This helps restore confidence in essential procedures such as buoyancy control, equipment handling and underwater communication. Depending on your experience and the time since your last dive, the dive operator may recommend or require a refresher session before regular dives. Please inform Pacébo of your certification level, approximate number of logged dives and most recent diving experience so that suitable arrangements can be discussed.

Both options may be possible. Experienced divers often prefer bringing their own mask, dive computer and personal equipment for familiarity and comfort. Rental equipment may be available through the participating dive resorts, subject to sizes, availability and the operator's arrangements. Guests should inform Pacébo in advance if they require a complete equipment set or individual items. Equipment rental, specialised accessories and any additional charges should be confirmed before booking rather than assumed to be included in the journey price.

Underwater photographers are welcome to bring their own camera systems, including macro lenses, strobes and video lights, provided their use complies with the dive operator's guidelines. In Lembeh, excellent buoyancy and careful fin positioning are particularly important to avoid disturbing fine sediment or damaging fragile marine habitats. Marine animals must never be touched, moved or manipulated for photographs. Guests requiring additional time for photography or specialised diving support should discuss their preferences with Pacébo in advance.

Yes, travelling with a non-diving companion may be possible, subject to suitable arrangements. While one guest enjoys the diving programme, their companion may prefer relaxing at the resort, enjoying the coastal scenery or participating in suitable non-diving activities. The availability of snorkelling, boat excursions or other experiences depends on the resort and local conditions. Pacébo can review a personalised arrangement for mixed diving and non-diving travellers, with pricing adjusted according to the services required.

Yes, additional personalisation can be discussed before booking. Although the journey itself is privately arranged, this does not automatically mean that every dive boat or underwater guide is reserved exclusively for your party. Guests who prefer a dedicated dive guide, smaller groups or a photography-focused schedule may request these arrangements. Availability, safety requirements and supplementary costs depend on the dive operator. Pacébo can help coordinate an experience that reflects your diving interests and preferred level of privacy.

Pacébo can assist in communicating dietary preferences and restrictions to the selected resorts before your arrival. Vegetarian meals and other alternatives may be available, while vegan diets, gluten-free requirements and serious food allergies may require additional planning. Guests should provide detailed information during the enquiry process so that suitable options can be assessed. Although every reasonable effort will be made, specific ingredients and completely allergen-free food preparation cannot always be guaranteed.

We recommend booking several months ahead whenever possible, particularly during popular diving periods when preferred room categories and specialist dive services may have limited availability. Early planning is especially helpful for underwater photographers, guests requiring rental equipment or travellers requesting dedicated dive arrangements. We also recommend sharing your intended arrival and departure flights with Pacébo before purchasing non-refundable tickets. This allows the dive programme and resort transfers to be coordinated appropriately before your reservation is confirmed.