Manuk Island in Maluku

Dive into the Volcanic Wonders and Marine Life of Manuk Island

What you need to know about Manuk

Manuk Island, also known as the "Snake Island," is a hidden gem for divers seeking unique underwater experiences in Indonesia. Located in the Banda Sea, this volcanic island is famous for its fascinating marine biodiversity and dramatic underwater landscapes. The island's active volcano adds a touch of adventure, creating an exceptional backdrop for diving enthusiasts.

What sets Manuk Island apart is its resident population of sea snakes, which can often be seen swimming gracefully in the clear waters. Divers will also encounter vibrant coral gardens, schools of fish, and the occasional pelagic visitor. The volcanic activity has shaped stunning underwater topography, including walls, slopes, and pinnacles, providing ample opportunities for exploration and photography.

For non-divers, Manuk Island offers thrilling snorkeling opportunities, where they can witness the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. Additionally, bird watching and exploring the island's unique volcanic terrain are popular activities. The serene environment is perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty.

Interesting facts about Manuk

Getting there: The best way to reach Manuk Island is by liveaboard, which offers convenient access to this remote dive destination. Most trips depart from Ambon or Sorong, making it easy to combine with other top dive sites in the Banda Sea.

Best time to visit Manuk Island: Manuk Island is a year-round diving destination, but the best conditions are typically from October to April. During this period, water temperatures range from 27-30°C (81-86°F), and visibility is excellent.

Diving Conditions: The waters around Manuk Island are generally calm with occasional mild currents. Dive depths range from 5 to 40 meters (16 to 131 feet), making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The island's volcanic topography provides diverse and exciting dive sites.

Our liveaboard trips: Many liveaboard trips to Manuk Island also include other renowned dive sites in the Banda Sea, such as the Banda Islands and Nusa Laut. Trips typically last 7-10 days, offering a comprehensive diving experience in this remote region.

A little known fact: Manuk Island is one of the few places in the world where divers can see a high concentration of sea snakes in their natural habitat, making it a truly unique diving destination.

Pictures of Manuk

Highlights in Manuk

Manuk Ridge

Manuk Ridge, located in the remote Banda Sea, is an extraordinary dive site known for its vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of sea snakes. This volcanic ridge, often referred to as "Snake Island," provides a unique diving experience with its surreal underwater landscape and diverse marine life. The ridge itself is an underwater extension of the Manuk Island volcano, creating dramatic topographies with steep drop-offs and thriving coral gardens.

What makes Manuk Ridge truly exceptional is the presence of numerous banded sea kraits, which are harmless to divers but fascinating to observe as they hunt for prey among the coral. Divers can also expect to encounter schools of barracuda, tuna, and various species of reef sharks. The nutrient-rich waters attract a wide range of marine life, including colorful reef fish, nudibranchs, and healthy coral formations.

For non-divers, the nearby Manuk Island offers opportunities for bird watching and exploring its volcanic landscape. The island is home to thousands of seabirds, adding to the unique charm of this destination. Manuk Ridge is a must-visit for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path, combining world-class diving with spectacular natural beauty.