Snorkelling is an amazing experience that allows you to explore the beautiful underwater world without the need for complex diving equipment.

In the heart of Bunaken Marine Park, located at the coral triangle and renowned for its rich marine life with more than 390 species of coral living within the park’s boundaries, we offer a professional service for snorkelers.

The extraordinarily high levels of marine diversity, combined with the ease of access, transform this place into one of the most interesting sites for snorkelers.

Snorkeling: an introduction to the beauty of the sea

Snorkelling is great fun, easy to learn and a perfect way to build up confidence in the water. For both children and adults, it is a right introduction to underwater sports and can be the first step towards freediving and scuba diving.

Snorkeling is a form of underwater exploration that allows you to observe marine life. Wearing a mask, snorkel and fins, snorkelers float on the surface of the water while breathing through the tube, allowing them to dive and observe the underwater world up close.

Before starting a snorkeling activity, it is important to understand the golden rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Among these are:

  • Respect marine life: never touch anything when you are underwater, either with hands or feet. Avoid disturbing flora and fauna to preserve the ecosystem without causing irreparable damage to the corals;
  • Use a reef-safe sunscreen: many sunscreens contain chemicals that can be harmful. Pay attention to prevent toxic sunscreen because they may contain minerals thar are not biodegradable.
  • Keep calm: remain serene and relaxed during the dive to conserve energy. Breathe slowly and calmly through your mouth using the snorkel while keeping your face submerged. Focus on maintaining a steady breathing rhythm;
  • Follow instructions: listen carefully to the instructions of our expert staff and follow the safety rules that are explained during the briefing.

Before taking a snorkeling course, it is helpful to have some prior skills.

These can include:

  • Swimming: having good swimming skills is essential for moving confidently in the water. Keep your legs straight while using a gentle flutter kick, minimizing bends at the knees. This efficient and energy-conserving swimming technique will help prevent effort and fatigue.
  • Be comfortable in the water: be familiar with the aquatic environment and feel comfortable submerging yourself. Do not push yourself beyond your physical capabilities and always stay within your comfort zone;
  • Breathe through the mouthpiece: choose a snorkel with simple yet effective features such as a comfortable silicone mouthpiece, flexible lower tube, and a dry top to keep water out. Practice breathing through it to get used to breathing underwater without lifting your head.

With these basic skills and an understanding of the fundamental rules, you can immerse yourself in a safe and rewarding snorkeling experience to better explore the wonders of the sea.

An underwater world to discover in total safety with a team of expert instructors

While snorkelling into the crystal clear waters surrounding Siladen Resort & Spa, you will be greeted by breathtaking views of lively, vibrant coral reefs. The variety of marine life is astonishing. Enormous sponges and anemones blowing in the current, huge schools of reef fish, turtles, eagle rays and napoleon wrasse are spotted regularly by snorkelers.

We are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of every guest.

A detailed site briefing is then carried out before each dive, providing information on the topography and local marine life, along with important safety instructions.

Additionally, our expert snorkeling guides accompany guests in small groups, ensuring that every experience is unforgettable and 100% safe.

Ideal conditions for snorkeling

Snorkelling conditions in Bunaken Marine Park are exceptional all year round.

The reefs surrounding the island start very shallow and slowly deepen to around 5m before the wall plummets into the deep.

The visibility is generally good, with an average of around 30 meters.

Since the currents can be strong and unpredictable, we always conduct a current check before entering the water, and we always follow the current during our snorkelling sessions.

The boat will pick you up when you are ready to leave the water.

The average water temperature throughout the year is 28ºC, although upwellings from the deepwater below can cause dramatic temperature fluctuations, sometimes varying up to 4ºC on a single site.

Snorkeling, at our boutique dive resort located on Pulau Siladen, is a wonderful way and opportunity to connect with nature and its beauty, discovering the diversity of the underwater world.