Nusa Penida Scuba Diving Cost Insights (2024)

Uncover the mysteries of Nusa Penida’s scuba diving costs with our comprehensive insights. Dive into this guide to understand the expenses involved in exploring the vibrant underwater world of Nusa Penida. From budget-friendly options to premium experiences, gain valuable knowledge to plan your aquatic adventure efficiently. Explore our insights today and embark on a scuba diving journey that fits your budget and expectations.

Scuba diving in Nusa Penida has long been a dream on my diving bucket list. On my maiden voyage to Bali, I eagerly scoured for prime diving spots, and Nusa Penida emerged as a top contender. However, diving in these waters demands a scuba certification due to formidable currents and challenging conditions. Consequently, on my initial trip, I opted for the awe-inspiring shipwreck dive in Tulamben—a captivating alternative that left me spellbound.

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About Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida, nestled off the southeastern coast of Bali, is a gem awaiting exploration. This island, part of a cluster of thirteen, including Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, boasts a diverse landscape that beckons adventurers far and wide. Rising to a maximum altitude of 524 meters, Nusa Penida is a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Dive Sites at Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts, boasting many stunning sites that promise unforgettable underwater adventures. With water temperatures ranging from 23 to 28 degrees Celsius, these dive sites offer ideal conditions for encountering diverse marine life in all its splendour.

Among the notable dive sites awaiting exploration are Penida Bay, Batu Meling, Batu Abah, Toya Pakeh, Malibu Point, Toyapakesh, Sd, Ped, Sental, and Blue Corner. Prepare to be mesmerized as you descend into these crystal-clear waters, where every dive promises encounters with unique and breathtaking marine ecosystems.

Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida is an unparalleled diving destination renowned for its mesmerizing encounters with Mola Molas, particularly during their peak season from July to October. Descending to depths of approximately 28 meters, we were fortunate to witness two of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Accessible via a 35-minute boat ride from Bali, the journey to Crystal Bay can be rough, so it’s advisable to take a seasickness tablet before embarking on this adventure.

This boat dive unfolds against a backdrop of stunning reefs, offering divers a glimpse into the vibrant underwater world of Nusa Penida. While the maximum depth reaches 30 meters, caution is advised as the seabed plunges even deeper, and sudden currents may pose challenges for divers. Dive centres typically avoid diving at this site in unfavourable weather conditions to ensure safety.

• Type of dive: Boat dive.
• Dive landscape: Reefs.
• Depth: Maximum of 30 metres. The sea bed is deeper than 30 metres, and also be very careful at this depth as the currents suddenly appear and push the divers everywhere. This is why dive centres do not dive at this site if the weather is terrible.
• Visibility: around 15 metres.
• Ideal for: Advanced and above.
• Wet suit: Yes, 5 mm, as the water can freeze, especially if you want to see the Mola Molas.

With visibility extending up to 15 meters, Crystal Bay provides an ideal playground for advanced divers seeking thrilling encounters with marine life. To withstand the chilly waters and increase the chances of spotting Mola Molas, a 5mm wetsuit is recommended. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and diversity of Crystal Bay as you plunge into its depths and immerse yourself in an unforgettable diving experience.

Manta Point

Manta Point lives up to its name by being a renowned hub for encountering majestic Mantas. Situated near the Manta cleaning station, divers can expect guaranteed sightings of these graceful creatures. Regrettably, I missed out on this opportunity due to my inability to equalize my ears. Despite encountering challenges, I refrained from diving at this site, opting to spend most of my time at the surface.

This boat dive unfolds amidst Manta cleaning stations, where strict Indonesian regulations prohibit divers from approaching too closely. Instead, divers venture a few hundred meters away, patiently awaiting the arrival of Mantas. With a maximum depth of 15 meters and visibility extending around 15 meters, Manta Point offers an ideal setting for open water divers and above to marvel at these magnificent creatures.

• Type of Dive: Boat dive.
• Dive Landscape: Manta cleaning stations. As per Indonesian regulation, the divers cannot go near the cleaning stations, so they dive a few hundred metres away and wait for the Mantas.
• Depth: Maximum of 15 metres.
• Visibility: Around 15 metres.
• Ideal for: Open water and above.
• Wet Suit: Yes, 5 mm, as the water can get freezing.

To combat the cold waters and ensure comfort during the dive, a 5mm wetsuit is recommended. Though my experience was limited, Manta Point promises an unforgettable adventure for those fortunate enough to witness the enchanting dance of Mantas in their natural habitat.

Mangrove

Located at Nusa Lembongan, the Mangrove dive site offers a serene and leisurely diving experience, typically characterized by drift diving. With strong currents in the area, divers often glide effortlessly with the flow, ensuring a relaxed exploration of the underwater wonders.

This boat dive unfolds amidst picturesque reefs, providing divers a tranquil backdrop for their underwater adventure. The Mangrove dive site is ideally suited for open water divers and beyond, with a maximum depth of 10 meters and visibility extending approximately 15 meters.

• Type of dive: Boat dive.
• Dive landscape: Reefs.
• Depth: Maximum of 10 metres.
• Visibility: Around 15 metres.
• Ideal for: Open water and above.
• Wet suit: Yes, 3 mm. The water is warm.

The warm waters of this dive site make it an inviting destination, requiring only a 3mm wetsuit for comfort during the dive. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely exploration of vibrant marine life or simply revelling in the beauty of the underwater landscape, the Mangrove dive site promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture beneath its surface.

Best Time to Dive at Nusa Penida

Diving enthusiasts will find that Nusa Penida offers exceptional underwater experiences year-round. Mantas grace these waters consistently throughout the year, ensuring divers can reliably encounter these majestic creatures at any time. However, for those eager to witness the elusive Mola Molas, the prime season spans from July to October. August and September, in particular, boast heightened opportunities for spotting these remarkable ocean sunfish, making them optimal months for underwater excursions in pursuit of these fascinating marine species.

Marine Life at Nusa Penida

The dive sites surrounding Nusa Penida teem with diverse marine life, offering an abundance of captivating encounters beneath the waves. Among the unique species inhabiting these waters are the iconic Mola Molas and elusive Bamboo sharks, which I was fortunate to spot during my dives.

The vibrant underwater landscape was adorned with numerous Nudi branches, adding bursts of colour to the seascape. Further exploration revealed the presence of fascinating creatures such as Devil, Scorpion, Rock, and Porcupine fishes, each contributing to the rich tapestry of marine biodiversity that thrives in the waters of Nusa Penida.

Scuba Diving in Nusa Penida Cost Insights and Dive Centre

On my second trip to Bali, I partnered with Intrinity Divers, a small but passionate diving centre in Canggu. Nestled in the heart of Bali, this dive centre exudes a genuine love for the underwater world and is dedicated to providing exceptional diving experiences.

Offering a comprehensive range of courses and opportunities for fun diving, Intrinity Divers caters to divers of all skill levels, ensuring that enthusiasts like myself can explore Bali’s captivating marine environments with confidence and enthusiasm.

Contact details

• Dive Centre Name and Website: Intrinity Divers.
• Phone number: 0877-8563-1699. (+62 is the International code for Indonesia)
• Address: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.35A, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351.

Reasons why I loved diving with Intrinity divers

Diving with Intrinity Divers was an absolute pleasure, and there are several reasons why my experience with them was so exceptional:

• First and foremost, the dive staff were truly outstanding. From the dive masters to the instructors and skippers, everyone was incredibly friendly and respectful. I never felt uncomfortable or out of place throughout my time with them.
• The equipment provided for diving was top-notch and meticulously maintained. I encountered no issues due to faulty or inadequate gear, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the underwater experience without any worries.
• The diving instructors were extremely knowledgeable about the dive sites and ensured that all fun divers were well cared for. Their expertise and attention to detail instilled confidence and made every dive memorable.
• I greatly appreciated that transportation was included in the dive cost. Unlike many other dive centres in Bali that charge extra for transportation, Intrinity Divers made it convenient for guests by offering complimentary transportation within their pickup range.
• While diving with them, I faced an issue with my left ear that prevented me from equalizing correctly. However, my dive buddy Sasa went above and beyond to ensure my safety and comfort. She always remained by my side, providing unwavering support and assistance—an act of kindness for which I am incredibly grateful.
• The payment process and all interactions with Intrinity Divers were seamless and conducted online, making the entire experience hassle-free and convenient.
• Last, including lunch in the dive cost was a delightful bonus. Not only was the lunch delicious, but it also provided an opportunity to refuel and relax after an exhilarating day of diving.
• Overall, my experience with Intrinity Divers exceeded all expectations, thanks to their exceptional staff, top-quality equipment, attentive service, and seamless operations. It was a memorable and enjoyable diving adventure I will cherish for years.

Things To Do in Nusa Penida for Non-Divers

Upon setting foot on Nusa Penida, visitors are greeted by many experiences to indulge in. Whether basking in the peacefulness of its lush hillsides or embarking on thrilling adventures, there’s something for everyone on this enchanting island. For those seeking accommodation, a resort nestled amidst the island’s pristine beauty offers a sanctuary for weary travellers.

Among the island’s many attractions, several stand out as must-visit destinations. Kelingking Beach and its iconic cliffside bridge offer breathtaking vistas that seem straight from a postcard. Broken Beach’s rugged beauty captivates with its natural archway framing the azure waters beyond. Meanwhile, Peguyangan Waterfalls cascade gracefully down rocky cliffs, providing a serene oasis for contemplation.

Venturing deeper into the island’s interior, the Tembeling Forest enchants with its verdant canopy and hidden pools awaiting discovery. Crystal Bay beckons with its crystalline waters, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s pristine marine environment. And for those seeking the thrill of cascading waters, Segening Waterfall promises a refreshing experience amidst nature’s splendour.

Beyond its natural wonders, Nusa Penida is revered for its cultural heritage and spiritual significance. Visitors often flock to its temples and sacred sites, immersing themselves in the island’s rich tapestry of tradition and belief. Whether seeking enlightenment or simply marvelling at the island’s cultural heritage, Nusa Penida offers a journey of discovery for the soul.

As the sun sets over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, Nusa Penida’s charm grows more enchanting. The island’s beauty leaves an indelible impression on all who tread its shores.

Nusa Penida is an example of Bali’s natural splendour, offering intrepid travellers a treasure trove of experiences. From its rugged coastlines to its verdant hillsides, the island captivates with its raw beauty and untamed spirit. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, Nusa Penida invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery.

How to Get to Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida, a picturesque island paradise, is accessible exclusively by boat. Numerous boats depart Sanur early daily, typically around 8 to 8:30 AM. Ferry tickets can be conveniently purchased at Sanur, and the cost of a one-way trip on the fast ferry to Nusa Penida averages around USD 11.

For divers, the dive charges levied by the dive centres often include transportation to and from Nusa Penida to Bali, providing added convenience and value. Additionally, tour agencies offer day tours to Nusa Penida for those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of the island, ensuring visitors can experience its beauty and charm firsthand.

• Adjacent to the departure point for boats to Nusa Penida, a quaint café awaits, offering a cozy spot to savour a pre-departure beverage or snack while soaking in the serene coastal ambience.

Upon returning from their diving adventures, divers can freshen up at showers and toilets conveniently near Bali’s shores. Please note that a nominal fee may be charged for using these facilities, ensuring cleanliness and comfort for all visitors.

Is Scuba Diving at Nusa Penida Safe for Solo Female Divers?

During my previous diving excursion with some other dive centre in Tulamben, I encountered a distressing situation where I felt harassed underwater by the dive staff. However, this time around, my experience was nothing short of amazing. I received exceptional care and attention despite encountering difficulties with equalising. The dive staff were incredibly friendly, attentive, and nurturing, ensuring every moment of my dive was comfortable and relaxing. No one misbehaved, and I felt completely at ease throughout the entire experience.

Having experienced both ends of the spectrum, I highly recommend thoroughly researching and reading reviews about dive centres before deciding, especially for solo travellers. The quality of the diving experience can truly make or break your trip, and choosing the right dive centre is essential for ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and memorable adventure beneath the waves.

Closing Notes

While Nusa Penida may not boast the same modern amenities as its neighbouring island, Bali, it offers a unique and authentic destination for those who appreciate exploring the local culture. Nusa Penida is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an immersive experience off the beaten path.

As an avid scuba diver, I can attest that diving in Nusa Penida has been one of the most memorable experiences of my underwater adventures. Encountering unique marine life, such as Mola Molas and Bamboo sharks, was captivating and unforgettable. If you plan a trip to Bali, I highly recommend diving in Nusa Penida for an unparalleled underwater experience.

Note: This post was written in collaboration with Intrinity divers. But the views and opinions expressed here are honest and unbiased.

PIN for later reference – Scuba Diving in Nusa Penida Cost Insights