Explore Sumatra

Arrive in Banda Aceh, the gateway to Palau Weh, and take a speedboat to admire the strength of the ocean with sharks or head to the less-traveled areas of Padang and Bangka Belitung to marvel at the untouched coral reefs. Adventure into this part of Indonesia and you’ll discover a more intimate experience. Often, Sumatra diving offers sites where the only man-made bubbles are your own.

All year round it is possible to step off white-sanded beaches and plunge into the ocean from your charming dive resort or jump into the warm waters of Sumatra from a luxury liveaboard. Some daily trips and dive courses from dive centers are available but it’s important to remember these remote tropical islands are often hard to contact before arrival. Scuba diving in Sumatra really is diving off the beaten track.

Explore the diverse topography of Pulau Weh’s underwater labyrinth and observe countless species of moray eel or experience Indonesian drift diving at its best in the crystal clear waters of Bangka Belitung. Whether you head to Bangka Belitung, Padang or Pulau Weh you are sure to find yourself in some ripping currents which make Sumatra diving that much more thrilling.

Places to Explore

Bangka-Belitung Islands

Situated off the east coast of Sumatra are the Bangka Belitung Islands. Famous for their large granite boulders which house small reefs, the Bangka and Belitung islands are one of the most untouched Indonesian diving spots. The picturesque sites have thick coral carpets and some of the best conditions to experience drift diving in its full force. As Bangka Belitung is remote and relatively undeveloped, there are only a few dive centres and dive resorts. To get the most out of diving at these islands, its best to dive in from a liveaboard, which can travel to dive sites further out.

Riau Islands

1 Center

The Riau Islands is an Indonesian province comprising 1769 islands lying from the Malacca Strait to the South China Sea. The Malacca Straits is one of the oldest and busiest marine trading routes, so it is not surprising that while scuba diving the Riau Islands, divers encounter a number of wrecks, from merchant ships to World War II bombers.

Diving in Sumatra

Sumatra, a hidden gem for divers, offers a diverse underwater experience that caters to both shore and liveaboard enthusiasts. One of the top dive sites is Pulau Weh, renowned for its vibrant coral gardens and the iconic Sophie Rickmers wreck, which attracts avid wreck divers. The wreck, sitting at about 55 meters, is a haven for exploring ghostly ship structures intertwined with marine life. Shore diving in Sumatra is equally rewarding, with destinations like Iboih Beach providing easy access to stunning reefs and rich biodiversity. Night dives here reveal mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton and nocturnal creatures, offering a unique spectacle. Sumatra's balance between accessible shore dives and adventurous liveaboard trips ensures that divers of all levels find their perfect underwater adventure.

The best Months to dive in Sumatra

Diving in Sumatra offers a variety of conditions throughout the year, making it an appealing destination for divers. The region experiences a tropical climate, with water temperatures typically ranging between 27°C to 30°C, providing comfortable diving conditions year-round. Visibility can vary significantly, often ranging from 10 to 30 meters, depending on the specific location and season.

While diving is possible all year, divers should be aware of seasonal variations. The dry season, from April to October, generally offers more favorable conditions with calmer waters and better visibility. The rainy season, from November to March, can bring stronger winds and currents, potentially reducing visibility and affecting dive plans. Divers should consider these factors when planning their trips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Statistics

Historical data and trends

Dive Activity & Environmental Conditions

Centers Map

PT. Bubble Addict INC (Bafey)

Jalan pantai Gapang, kel Iboih, Kec Sukakarya,, 24411 Sabang, AC - IDN

Pusat Selam Lampung

Jl. Dakwah, Gang Harapan No. 22A , Labuhan Ratu, 35142 Bandar Lampung, LA - IDN

Studio Renang

club house palazzo garden, Jalan kampung belian, b BATAM, KEPRI, KR 29433, 29464 Batam, KR - IDN